Tag Archives: chicago burst pipes

How to Prevent Burst Pipes in Lincoln Park, Chicago

how to prevent burst pipes in lincoln park

Winter temperatures in Chicago are consistently ranked among the highest in the United States. With temperatures regularly plunging below the freezing point, keeping water pipes safe during winter can be a huge challenge for homeowners in Lincoln Park.

Frozen pipes in the dead of winter mean that all or some parts of your home will have to go without water for extended periods, says Sunnyside Properties. This problem doesn’t always end after the pipe has thawed because frozen pipes can quickly become burst pipes that cause water damage to your home.

The major challenge with frozen pipes is the problem often happens without prior warning. Pipes in the unheated spaces in your home can freeze and thaw all by themselves. The only sign you will have of the event is that you may be left with a burst pipe inside the house.

Is there a way to prevent this problem? Thankfully, there are several things you can do to stop your pipes from bursting during winter. Some of these steps involve using items you already have in your home. Others may require you to buy some stuff. But all are fully explained below.

Steps for preventing burst pipes in your Lincoln Park, Chicago home

Temporarily block crawlspace vents

During winter, crawlspaces act as entry points for cold drafts that increase the risk of frozen pipes in your home. A cold crawlspace can cool your floors and increase heating costs. To stop this problem, it is best to seal off crawlspace vents for winter. If your crawlspace has a dirt floor, you may want to cover it with a good vapor barrier before doing this. Alternatively,  you can insulate your subfloor. Polystyrene foam is a great material to use if you want to block the vents in your crawlspace.

Insulate exposed pipes

Even if your home is heated, exposed pipes in the crawlspace, garage, basement and other unheated spaces can still cause your pipes to freeze. To prevent this, you want to insulate all the pipes that bring water into your home. For ease of installation and affordability, you should use foam insulation. It is easy to work with and will fit around corners. You also want to seal the cracks and openings where pipes penetrate the walls of your home. 

Disconnect and drain garden hoses and outdoor faucets

This will prevent water damage to these fixtures and lower the risk of frozen pipes inside your home. To do this step, locate the shut-off valve for the outdoor faucet and turn it clockwise to close it. Disconnect the hose, lower one end and lift the other to drain it. Make sure there is no water left inside the hose. Coil the hose and store it in a safe place to prevent damage from snow and ice. Open the faucet and let it drain completely.

Install freeze-proof faucets or frost-proof spigots in outdoor areas

Freeze-proof outdoor faucets prevent frozen pipes by protecting outdoor and indoor plumbing from freezing temperatures. Freeze-proof faucets have their valves far inside the house. That ensures that the water behind the valve doesn’t freeze and transfers cold temperatures to the water pipes inside the home. Frost-proof spigots also slope downward toward the spout. This unique feature helps to drain water and prevent ice buildup.

a frost free hose bibb installation.

Freeze-proof outdoor faucets prevent frozen pipes by protecting outdoor and indoor plumbing from freezing temperatures.

Keep your home warm at all times

You don’t want to leave your home without sufficient heating during the winter months, even if you plan to go away for a long period. To prevent frozen pipes, the thermostat should never be turned down below 70° (F). The additional energy costs of this step are nothing compared to the cost of fixing water damage resulting from a burst pipe emergency in your home.

Let hot and cold water faucets drip

Opening one or two cold and hot water faucets inside the home to let water drip will protect your water pipes from freezing. The constant dripping ensures that water is always flowing through the pipes. Water is less likely to freeze when it is moving. If you are worried about wasting water,  place a container under the faucet to catch water. In any case, the cost of that water doesn’t compare to the potential damage from a frozen pipe.

Leave cabinet doors slightly-open

When they are closed, cabinet doors prevent warm air from circulating to the insides of the cabinets, resulting in pipes in under-the-sink areas becoming prone to freezing. To stop this problem, keep cabinet doors in these parts of your home slightly open. You will protect your pipes by letting the warm air flow into the normally cold recesses of those cabinets.

Finally, before implementing these steps, it is a good idea to have a nearby Lincoln Park plumber do a careful inspection of your plumbing. This will help you find leaks and weak spots in the plumbing that predispose the system to frozen and burst pipes.

Chicago Burst Pipes: What to Do Right Now

Chicago Burst Pipes

A burst pipe in your Chicago home can cause significant damage if not addressed promptly. The combination of cold winters and aging infrastructure makes Chicago particularly susceptible to this issue. It is crucial to understand the severity of burst pipes and take immediate action to mitigate any potential damage to your property.

Immediate Actions to Take When a Pipe Bursts

The moment you realize a pipe has burst, it’s essential to act swiftly. Your immediate actions can significantly reduce the extent of the damage. Follow these steps to ensure the situation is under control:

  • Switch off the electricity in the affected areas to avoid electrical hazards.
  • Try to contain the water using buckets, towels, or any other absorbent materials.
  • Move valuables and furniture away from the affected area to prevent further damage.
  • Make sure everyone in the household is aware of the situation and stays out of the affected zone.

How to Safely Shut Off the Water Supply

Shutting off the water supply quickly is critical to controlling a burst pipe emergency situation. Locate the main water valve, which is usually found in the basement, crawl space, or near the water meter. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water. If the valve is stuck, use a wrench to aid in turning it. Familiarize yourself with this procedure ahead of time to ensure you can act promptly during an emergency.

Steps to Drain Water from the System

Once the water supply is shut off, you need to drain the remaining water from the system to prevent further leakage. This involves opening all faucets and flushing toilets until the water stops flowing. By doing this, you reduce the pressure in the pipes and prevent additional leaks from forming.

How to Identify the Source of the Burst

Identifying the exact source of the burst pipe is crucial in ensuring the repair is done correctly. Look for visible signs of water damage, such as wet spots, drips, or pooling water. Trace the water back to its origin. In some cases, the burst may be behind a wall or ceiling, requiring more extensive investigation. If you are unable to identify the source, it is advisable to contact a water leak detection plumber for assistance.

Prevent the Spread of Water Damage

After containing the immediate threat, your focus should shift to preventing further water damage. Use towels, mops, and wet vacuums to remove standing water. Dehumidifiers and fans can help to dry out the affected area. Prevent mold and mildew by thoroughly drying any wet surfaces and materials. It is essential to act quickly, as mold can start to form within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure.

Contacting an Emergency Plumber in Chicago

While taking immediate action to address the burst pipe is crucial, contacting an emergency plumber is equally important. Experienced plumbers have the expertise and equipment to handle burst pipes and mitigate damage effectively. Give priority to local Chicago-based plumbers, as they will be familiar with the common issues that affect homes in the area. Make sure to provide a detailed description of the problem to the plumber and inquire about their emergency response times.

a burst pipe repair in chicago.

Experienced plumbers have the expertise and equipment to handle burst pipes and mitigate damage effectively.

Assessing and Documenting the Damage for Insurance

After stabilizing the situation, it is important to document the damage for insurance purposes. Take detailed notes and photographs of all affected areas. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the incident. They may require you to provide an itemized list of damaged belongings and receipts for any repair costs. Keep all documents well-organized to facilitate a smooth claims process.

Preventative Measures to Avoid Future Bursts

Preventing future pipe bursts involves taking proactive steps to protect your plumbing system. Consider the following measures:

  • Insulate pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages.
  • Keep the thermostat at a consistent temperature, even when you are away from home.
  • Seal any drafts around doors and windows to prevent cold air from affecting your pipes.
  • Schedule regular maintenance checks with a professional plumber to identify potential issues early.
  • Install pipe sleeves or heat tape for added protection in extremely cold weather.

Implementing these measures can significantly reduce the risk of future pipe bursts and help protect your home from water damage.

Conclusion: Stay Prepared and Stay Calm

Dealing with a burst pipe in your Chicago home can be a stressful experience, but staying calm and taking immediate action can help minimize the damage. Remember to shut off the water supply, drain the system, identify the source of the burst, and contact an emergency plumber. Documenting the damage for insurance and taking preventive measures can help you recover more efficiently and prevent future occurrences. Stay prepared, stay calm, and protect your home from the adverse effects of burst pipes.

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Need help with a burst pipe right now? Call us at 773-599-9181 or fill out the form below:

A Comprehensive Guide to Dealing with Burst Pipes in Chicagoland

A Comprehensive Guide to Dealing with Burst Pipes in Chicagoland

Dealing with burst pipes can be a stressful and costly situation for homeowners in the Chicagoland area. Not only can it cause extensive damage to your property, but it can also disrupt your daily routine and lead to unwanted expenses. Below we will provide you with everything you need to know about dealing with burst pipes in Chicagoland, from understanding the causes of burst pipes to preventing them and effectively handling the situation if it does occur.

Understanding the Causes

Before we get into the measures to deal with burst pipes, it’s important to understand the common causes. By understanding the underlying causes, you can take preventative measures to mitigate the risk of a burst pipe. The following are some of the most common causes:

  • Freezing temperatures: Chicago’s harsh winters are notorious for their frigid temperatures, which can cause water inside pipes to freeze and expand, leading to bursts.
  • Age and deterioration: Over time, pipes naturally degrade, especially if they are made from older materials such as galvanized iron. These weakened pipes are more susceptible to bursting.
  • High water pressure: Excessive water pressure can put strain on pipes, leading to leaks or bursts.
  • Tree root intrusion: Tree roots seeking water can sometimes infiltrate underground pipes, causing blockages and ultimately leading to burst pipes.

Prevention is Key

While it may be impossible to completely eliminate the risk of burst pipes, there are several preventative measures you can take to reduce the likelihood of this unfortunate occurrence:

  • Insulating exposed pipes: By insulating pipes in unheated areas of your home, such as crawl spaces or attics, you can protect them from freezing temperatures.
  • Sealing air leaks: Identifying and sealing any cracks or gaps in your home’s exterior can prevent cold air from entering and potentially freezing pipes.
  • Maintaining moderate thermostat settings: Keeping your thermostat at a consistent temperature, even when you’re away, can help prevent extreme temperature fluctuations that can lead to burst pipes.
  • Regular pipe inspections: Hiring a professional to conduct routine inspections of your plumbing system can help identify and address any issues before they escalate.
  • Proper tree and shrubbery placement: Planting trees and shrubs away from underground pipes can minimize the risk of roots infiltrating and causing blockages.

Handling a Burst Pipe

Despite your best efforts, a burst pipe may still occur. In the unfortunate event that it does, it’s crucial to act swiftly and follow these steps:

  1. Turn off the water supply: Locate your main water valve and shut it off immediately to prevent further water damage.
  2. Open faucets: Open all faucets connected to the affected pipe to relieve pressure and allow water to drain.
  3. Contain the water: Use buckets, towels, or a wet/dry vacuum to contain and remove as much water as possible.
  4. Contact a professional plumber: It’s essential to contact a plumber who specializes in burst pipe repair to assess the damage, make necessary repairs, and ensure your plumbing system is back in working order.
  5. Document the damage: Take photos or videos of the damage for insurance purposes.
  6. Contact your insurance company: Notify your insurance provider about the burst pipe to initiate the claims process. They will guide you through the necessary steps and coverage.
a burst pipe repair in chicagoland.

Burst pipes require immediate attention, so choose a plumber who offers emergency services and can promptly address the issue.

Choosing the Right Professional

When dealing with a burst pipe, it’s essential to choose a reliable and experienced professional plumber. Consider the following factors when selecting a plumber:

  • License and certifications: Ensure the plumber is licensed and holds relevant certifications to perform the necessary repairs.
  • Insurance: Verify that the plumber has liability insurance, which protects you and your property in case of any accidents or damages during the repair process.
  • Reputation and reviews: Look for customer reviews and testimonials to gauge the plumber’s reputation and quality of work.
  • Response time: Burst pipes require immediate attention, so choose a plumber who offers emergency services and can promptly address the issue.

In Conclusion

Dealing with burst pipes in the Chicagoland area can be a challenging situation, but by understanding the causes, taking preventative measures, and knowing how to handle a burst pipe effectively, you can minimize damage and ensure a speedy recovery. Remember to always prioritize safety and contact an emergency plumber in Chicago when dealing with burst pipes. By following the advice in this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any burst pipe emergencies that may arise.

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Need assistance with a burst pipe in the greater Chicago area? Contact us today at 773-599-9181 or by form below!

Chicago Burst Pipe? Minimize Water Damage With These Useful Tips

Chicago Burst Pipe Tips

Water pipes burst in Chicago for several reasons, many of which are avoidable. But when you have a burst water pipe discharging water into your home, you really don’t care about the cause of the problem. You want to know how you can save your home and belongings.

In these situations, Francis Taylor Properties say prompt and decisive action is required. In the first few minutes of the event, the speed and preciseness of your actions will make a world of difference to how much you eventually spend on fixing the water damage to your home.

This post explains the crucial steps to minimize the impact of a ruptured water pipe in your home.

Shut the water from the mains

Stop the burst pipe from releasing more water into your home. Shut the supply of water by closing the water main shut-off valve for your house. This is usually located outside the home, and every member of your household must know the location of the water main shut-off valve and how to use it.

Drain faucets

To stop more water from being released onto the floor of your home, drain all remaining water out of the faucets. But before you do this, ensure that the water heater has been turned off. Open the cold water faucets first, followed by the hot water faucets, and lastly, flush your toilets several times to get rid of all the water. 

Remove your belongings from the path of the water

To minimize damage, remove all items vulnerable to water, such as carpets, furniture, clothes and other absorbent materials. Take them outside the house or place them on platforms. If there are electrical appliances in the region of the flood, avoid the risk of electric shock by turning off the water supply to your home.

plumber taking stock of water damage caused by a burst pipe in chicago.

Now that you have taken steps to prevent further damage to your home, it is time to assess the situation.

Take stock of the damage

Now that you have taken steps to prevent further damage to your home, it is time to assess the situation. Slowly do a walkthrough of the affected areas with a camera. Record and take pictures of the scene, shooting from different angles for a clear perspective of the damage. The insurance claims adjuster will need this information.

Call a professional plumber

A good plumber will not only repair your burst pipe, they will explain why it happened and what you can do to prevent a recurrence. Using a plumber who is insured and who will guarantee their work is vital. The quality of the plumbing work will not only keep your home safe by preventing future problems but it can also influence your insurance claims.

Contact your insurance agent

You must inform the insurance company as soon as possible. This will not only fast-track the process of making your insurance claims, but your insurance agent can provide vital information that will make the process of water damage restoration quicker and easier. If the agent asks you any questions, do not answer them if you are unsure.

Mop up the water

The next step is to remove the water from your home. You want to start this as soon as possible. Quick action will reduce the amount of damage to your flooring, walls or ceilings and minimize the risk of mold and mildew. Mop up the water as quickly as you can and dry the area thoroughly.

Keep your doors open

To facilitate the drying process, you should improve airflow within your home. Do this by opening all the doors and windows. Improved ventilation will accelerate the rate of evaporation and further reduce the risk of mold and mildew. Do not forget to open the cupboard, cabinet, and vanity doors. Do this even if they were not touched by the water.

heat youe home to prevent burst pipes in wintertime in chicago.

Raise the indoor temperature of your home to help the water dry faster and reduce your water damage repair costs.

Heat your home

Raise the indoor temperature of your home to help the water dry faster and reduce your water damage repair costs. If the problem was caused by a frozen pipe, you will need to thaw it by applying heat directly to it or by warming the room where the pipe is. Do this with a hair dryer, an electric heating pad or a space heater (you can hire one).

Prevent it from happening again

Now it is time to find out the immediate and remote reasons why the pipe burst. Water pipes burst for several reasons, but the most common one is extremely low winter temperatures. Taking the proper steps to maintain your water pipes and protect them from cold will help you avoid this problem in the future.

Finally, consider the value of retaining the services of an emergency plumber nearby. This kind of relationship means you get preferential treatment from your plumber during times of emergency. Your home’s plumbing will also be maintained in a consistent manner that greatly limits the risk of damage.