How To Perform Pipe Burst Cleanup

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

When a pipe bursts, clean the water to avoid further damage in your Clearfield, UT building.

Freezing weather or aging or damaged pipes can cause a pipe to burst, creating a messy situation that requires pipe burst cleanup to avoid additional damage. This guide will walk you through some steps you can take when you are dealing with a burst pipe.

7 Step Water Cleanup Process

Whatever the cause of your burst pipe, it is important to perform water cleanup within 24 to 48 hours. After that point, even clean water can become hazardous to come in contact with and mold growth may because an issue. These seven steps can help you get your property cleaned up and dried out.

1. Shut Off the Water

Whether you have a broken pipe or a supply line leaking, the first step is to mitigate the damage by turning off the water supply. Make note of the location of the main water shut-off valve at your facility so that you can access it quickly when a problem occurs.

2. Remove Wet Contents

The longer anything that is wet stays in your building, the more likely you are to have problems with mold. Move wet furniture and other contents out of the building. Items that can be salvaged can be left in the sun to dry out. Other items, such as wet carpet or drywall, should be thrown out.

3. Remove Standing Water

A submersible pump is the most effective tool to use for removing water. If you don't have one, you may be able to rent one. Alternatively, you can contact a water remediation company in Clearfield, UT, to handle the job for you. For smaller amounts of water, you may be able to remove it using a wet-dry vacuum, a bucket, or a mop.

4. Dry Out Your Property

Once the water is gone, the next most important part of pipe burst cleanup is to dry out your property. Fans and dehumidifiers are useful tools for this process. If the weather permits it, open windows and doors to get some air circulating.

5. Tear Out Damaged Materials

Some materials are difficult to salvage once they get wet. You may need to remove and replace carpeting, carpet pads, flooring, drywall, cabinets, hardwoods, and ceilings.

6. Fix the Broken Pipe

Before you can turn the water back on, you need to cut out the section of the broken pipe and replace it. You can tackle this job at any point in the restoration process, but it is usually easier after you have removed damaged materials, but before you have started replacing them.

7. Clean and Disinfect Surfaces

Water from a burst pipe is usually clean water, but it is still a good idea to clean and disinfect surfaces that were in contact with the water. Use a mild detergent to clean surfaces and then apply a disinfectant, such as diluted bleach. Opening windows can help remove odors. If odors linger, you may want to use an ozone machine.

Once you have completed the pipe burst cleanup process, you can begin repairing your damaged property. Regularly inspecting your plumbing may help you avoid a recurrence of the problem.