What To Do When A Pipe Bursts In Your Home

Common Reasons Pipes Burst & How to Prevent Them

A pipe burst often feels sudden, but it’s usually caused by long-term issues that finally reach a breaking point. Knowing what leads to these emergencies can help you prevent them. Click here to learn more about preventing summer plumbing emergencies.

Corrosion
Older pipes, especially galvanized steel or cast iron, can corrode from the inside out. Over time, rust and mineral buildup weaken the pipe walls, increasing the risk of cracks and leaks. Homes with aging plumbing should consider a professional inspection or plumbing replacement.

High Water Pressure
Excessive water pressure puts constant strain on pipes, joints, and valves. If pressure goes above the recommended 60 psi, it can lead to leaks or bursts. Common warning signs include banging pipes, frequent leaks, or premature appliance failure.

Clogs and Blockages
A serious clog can trap water and increase pressure behind the blockage. Eventually, that pressure can force a pipe to crack- especially in older or already weakened sections. Regular drain maintenance helps prevent this issue.

Poor Installation or Old Plumbing
Improperly installed or outdated plumbing systems are more prone to failure. Weak joints, unsupported pipes, or brittle materials can give out unexpectedly. If your home is older, it may be time to consider plumbing repair or upgrades to avoid an emergency.

Freezing Temperatures
Even in warmer areas like San Antonio, occasional cold fronts can catch homeowners off guard. When water freezes, it expands inside the pipe, creating pressure that can cause it to crack or rupture—especially if the pipe is uninsulated or exposed.

Signs You Have a Busted Pipe

Sometimes a busted pipe is obvious. You hear rushing water or see a puddle forming. But in many cases, the signs are subtle. Recognizing them early can help you avoid costly water damage and repairs.

Watch for these common indicators:

Low Water Pressure
If water pressure drops across multiple fixtures, it may signal a leak somewhere in your plumbing system.

Wet Spots on Walls, Ceilings, or Floors
Damp areas, bubbling paint, or discoloration often mean water is leaking inside your walls or ceiling, especially if the area feels warm or soft.

Unexplained Puddles or Damp Areas
If water is pooling where it shouldn’t be, like under sinks or along baseboards, it may be leaking from a busted pipe nearby. Leaks not only damage your home but your wallet. 

Rusty or Brown Tap Water
Brown or yellow water from your faucets may suggest pipe corrosion or a rupture that’s introducing rust and debris into your water supply.

Musty Odors or Sewage Smell
Musty or foul odors could mean water is leaking behind walls or under flooring- often a sign of a hidden burst.

Dripping, Hissing, or Running Water Sounds
If you hear water when no fixtures are running, you might have a leak inside your walls.

Spike in Your Water Bill
An unexpected increase in your bill is a common red flag, especially if your usage hasn’t changed.

Immediate Steps to Take When a Pipe Bursts

A pipe burst can cause serious water damage fast but quick action can reduce the impact. Follow these steps to protect your home:

Step 1: Shut Off the Water
Locate your home’s main shut-off valve. It is usually near the water meter or in the basement. Find it and turn it off immediately. This stops additional water from flooding the area and worsening the damage.

Step 2: Turn Off Electricity
If water is leaking near electrical outlets or appliances, shut off power at the breaker box to avoid shock or fire hazards. Never touch wet electrical items.

Step 3: Drain the Faucets
Open all faucets to relieve pressure. Start from the lowest point in your home and work upward. 

Step 4: Capture and Contain the Water
Use buckets, towels, and wet/dry vacuums to collect water and limit damage to flooring and furniture.

Step 5: Document the Damage
Take photos or videos of the busted pipe and affected areas before cleanup. This will be useful for insurance claims and helps plumbers assess the damage during repair.

Step 6: Call an Emergency Plumber
Don’t try to handle a pipe burst alone. Call 1st Call Plumbing & AC at 210-446-0200 for plumbing repair in San Antonio. We’ll dispatch a licensed technician ASAP. Emergency plumbing services can prevent damage to your home.

Why You Shouldn’t Delay Plumbing Repair

If a pipe leak seems small or stops leaking temporarily, it may not feel like an emergency but delaying repairs can quickly turn a minor issue into a major headache. Even a tiny crack behind a wall or under flooring can lead to significant damage if left unaddressed.

Here’s what can happen if you wait too long:

Mold Growth Within 24–48 Hours
Moisture behind walls and under flooring creates the ideal environment for mold, which can spread fast and pose serious health risks.

Damage to Drywall, Insulation, and Flooring
Water-soaked drywall, flooring, and insulation often need full replacement. Delaying repairs means higher costs and more extensive restoration.

Foundation and Structural Problems
Persistent leaks can weaken structural supports or seep into the foundation, leading to cracks or settling over time.

Pest Infestations
Moist areas can attract roaches, termites, and rodents- all of which can cause even more damage to your home.

Higher Repair Costs
What could have been a simple plumbing repair may turn into a complete plumbing replacement, along with expensive mold or structural restoration.

Potential Insurance Issues
Waiting too long to address a leak could impact your home insurance coverage, especially if it’s deemed neglect.

How 1st Call Plumbing & AC Can Help

When a pipe bursts, fast, reliable service is crucial—and that’s where 1st Call Plumbing & AC comes in. With over 35 years of experience serving San Antonio, New Braunfels, Boerne, Spring Branch, and surrounding areas, we’ve built a reputation for expert workmanship and dependable service.

Whether it’s a small pipe leak or a major plumbing replacement, we’re here to help—day or night.

Here’s what you can expect when you call us:

✅ Emergency Plumbing Repair: We’re available seven days a week with emergency service when you need it most—no waiting, no delays.

✅ No Trip Charges: We don’t charge to show up. You’ll only pay for the service you need, with no surprise fees.

✅ Free Estimates on Repairs: Get a clear quote up front so you know exactly what to expect—before any work begins.

✅ Licensed, Experienced Technicians: Our team is fully licensed and trained to handle everything from leak detection to full pipe replacements.

✅ Upfront Pricing: You’ll receive transparent pricing with no hidden costs or last-minute add-ons.

✅ Flexible Financing Available: Unexpected repair? We offer special financing options to help ease the financial stress.

✅ Complete Leak Detection & Plumbing Services: Using advanced tools, we locate hidden leaks, repair burst pipes, and replace damaged sections with expert care—getting your home back to normal fast.

Preventing Future Pipe Bursts

After experiencing a pipe burst, taking preventive steps is essential to avoid it happening again. Here are smart, proactive ways to protect your plumbing system long-term:

Schedule Annual Plumbing Inspections
Routine inspections by 1st Call Plumbing & AC help catch early signs of trouble—like corrosion, leaks, or high water pressure before they turn into costly emergencies. Preventive maintenance is one of the best ways to protect your home.

Watch for Early Warning Signs
Low water pressure, discolored water, or odd sounds from your pipes are red flags. Don’t ignore them—these are early signs of potential leaks or pressure problems. Call us at the first sign of trouble.

Install a Pressure Regulator
High water pressure strains pipes and increases the risk of bursting. A pressure-reducing valve (PRV) can help keep pressure at a safe level (typically between 40–60 psi). We can inspect your system and recommend solutions.

Upgrade Outdated Plumbing
If your home has galvanized steel, polybutylene, or aging copper pipes, consider upgrading. These materials are more prone to failure over time. A proactive plumbing replacement now can save thousands later.

Insulate Pipes in Cold Weather
Even in San Antonio, a cold front can cause pipes to freeze and burst. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated spaces like garages and attics, and during a freeze, keep faucets dripping and open cabinets under sinks to let warm air circulate. 

 Conclusion: Be Prepared, Not Panicked

Know how to react fast, and rely on trusted professionals like 1st Call Plumbing & AC to get the job done right.

Keep this blog bookmarked for future reference, and remember: The best way to protect your home is to know what to do and who to call.

At 1st Call Plumbing & AC, we’ve been helping homeowners in San Antonio, New Braunfels, Boerne, and surrounding areas for over 35 years. From emergency plumbing repair to complete plumbing replacement, our licensed technicians are available day or night.

📞 Request a Free Service Estimate

Call 210-446-0200 or contact us here to speak with a licensed plumber and get a free estimate on your pipe repair. Let 1st Call Plumbing & AC be your first and only call for expert plumbing service.