No one wants to encounter a burst pipe in their bathroom at midnight. You need to fix the situation ASAP, but what do you do? Even if you call a plumber and they say they’re on their way, what do you do in the meantime when faced with a spraying pipe?
Well, there are some things you can try to temporarily patch the problem and minimize damage until professional help can arrive.
1. Stop the Flow of Water
Before you can even attempt to fix the leaky pipe, you have to find some way to stop the water flow. Turn off the water supply valve for the pipe in question, but if you’re having a tough time finding it, simply turn off the main shut-off valve for the house. Drain any remaining water from the pipe by running the faucet closest to the leak.
2. Wipe Down the Pipe
Nothing is going to stick very well to a wet pipe, so use a cloth to dry off the pipe. Then, wipe down the surrounding fixtures and cabinets, mop the floor, and then clear the area of debris or objects. This minimizes damage to the rest of the room and ensures the plumber has ample room to make the repairs.
3. Tighten the Joints
Tighten the nearby joints with an adjustable wrench. You may find that the fittings are already tight, but in the event they are loose, tightening them will make a stronger seal for a more effective and long-lasting hold – at least until the plumber gets there.
4. Prepare the Pipe
Ensure a smooth surface for the pipe. Gently remove rough spots and rust around the area of the leak with a piece of sandpaper or metal file.
5. Patch the Pipe
For a temporary fix, use anything you may have on hand, such as epoxy putty. Knead a piece in your hands, then place it in and around the hole or crack. You may also use a piece of neoprene or garden hose rubber and some pipe clamps to seal the leak. If all else fails – you guessed it – grab some duct tape. It really does work wonders. Wrap many layers around the offending area as tight as you can.
Now that you have done everything you can to stave off the problem, be patient and await the plumber. They will arrive with the necessary tools and supplies to make a permanent fix. If they don’t have the particular pipe or size you need, they have more professional temporary fixes they can try until the product they need comes in later.
It’s best to have a trusted plumber on speed dial who offers emergency services in case something like this crops up.
Contact L&P Plumbing
If the above situation ever happens to you, be sure to call us right away at 512-468-9030. We offer 24/7 emergency services and can dispatch someone to address the situation promptly.
