How To Tell If Your Pipes Burst Underground

You hear strange sounds in your walls, notice wet spots on your ceiling, or see your water bill skyrocket without explanation. These could be signs that you’re dealing with a burst pipe. Red Rock Trenchless specializes in diagnosing and repairing burst pipes using modern trenchless sewer line repair methods.

In this guide, we will explain how to tell if a pipe bursts and the immediate steps you should take.

Understanding What Causes Pipes To Burst

Before you can identify the signs of a burst pipe, you need to understand why plumbing systems fail. Low temperatures are one of the most common causes. When water inside pipes freezes, it expands and creates immense pressure that cracks or ruptures the pipe walls.

Beyond frozen pipes, damage can also happen over time. Corrosion weakens pipes gradually, especially in older systems. Age-related deterioration, high water pressure, tree root intrusion, and ground shifting from earthquakes or construction can stress pipes until they break.

5 Burst Pipe Signs

If you’re wondering how to tell if a pipe bursts, start by looking for clear indicators that something’s wrong. Spotting these signs early allows you to take quick action and prevent major water damage.

• A drop in water pressure serves as one of the earliest warning signs. If your faucets suddenly produce weak streams or your shower barely trickles, water may be escaping through a crack somewhere in your system.
• Unexplained water puddles around your property indicate leaking pipes beneath the surface. You might notice soggy spots in your yard, water pooling near your foundation, or dampness in your basement.
• Unusual sounds in your plumbing system demand immediate attention. Listen for dripping, hissing, or rushing water sounds inside your walls or floors.
• Discolored or foul-smelling water suggests contamination from a burst pipe. When pipes break underground, dirt and bacteria can enter your water supply.
• A spike in water bills without increased usage clearly indicates a problem. A burst pipe leaks water continuously, causing your meter to record higher consumption levels, requiring a plumbing inspection.

What To Do When You Suspect a Burst Pipe

If you suspect a burst pipe, contact a professional plumber immediately. They have the specialized equipment and expertise needed to locate underground leaks and assess the extent of damage. Modern pipe bursting technology allows contractors to replace damaged pipes without extensive excavation, saving you time and money while protecting your property.

Preventing Future Pipe Bursts

Professional plumbers can implement preventive measures to protect your plumbing system from future failures. They can properly insulate vulnerable pipes and assess your system for weak points.

Trust Red Rock Trenchless for Expert Pipe Repairs

When you know how to tell if a pipe bursts, you can spot the warning signs early and call professionals before the problem causes major damage. At Red Rock Trenchless, we use advanced trenchless technology to diagnose and repair burst pipes with minimal disruption to your property.

Learn more about preventing pipe bursting before winter arrives. Get in touch with Red Rock Trenchless at (320) 335-8158 to receive prompt, reliable repair solutions from our experts.