Burst pipes can cause anything from minor inconvenience to major property damage. Understanding the most common causes can help you act early and reduce the risk of expensive repairs.
Burst pipes are usually caused by pressure build-up, ageing materials, corrosion, blockages, root intrusion, or underground movement. The earlier these problems are found, the easier they are to fix.
What Are the Common Warning Signs of a Burst Pipe?
Burst pipes often show warning signs before they fail completely. Spotting them early can help you avoid larger repairs.
- Wet patches appearing on walls, ceilings, or floors
- Unexplained spike in your water bill
- Drop in water pressure throughout your home
- Sound of running water when all taps are off
- Discoloured or rusty-looking water
- Musty odours or visible mould growth
If you notice any of these signs, it is best to arrange a plumbing inspection as soon as possible.
Why Do Pipes Burst?
High Water Pressure & Blockages
A significant increase in water pressure in the pipes, usually caused by a clogged pipe, often results in plumbing problems. Eventually, the pipe reaches its maximum capacity, expands, and bursts.
Common causes of blockages include grease, food waste, wipes, hair, and other materials that should not go down drains or toilets.
Water pressure exceeding safe levels puts constant strain on your pipes, joints, and fixtures. In Perth, the maximum recommended water pressure for residential properties is 550 kPa. Pressure above this threshold can cause pipes to crack, fittings to fail, and appliances like washing machines and hot water systems to suffer damage.
If your taps seem to have excessive force or you’ve noticed leaking fixtures, high water pressure could be the culprit.
Existing Pipe Damage and Leaks
Small leaks, weak joints, and early pipe damage can all become bigger problems over time. Fixing them early is usually far easier and less expensive than dealing with a burst pipe.
Tree Root Damage
Underground pipes can be damaged when tree roots grow towards moisture and put pressure on weak points in the line. Over time, this can crack the pipe or force joints apart.
Corrosion and Ageing Pipes
Metal pipes naturally deteriorate over time. Galvanised steel and older copper pipes are particularly vulnerable to rust and corrosion, which weakens the pipe walls and increases the risk of bursting. If your home is more than 20 years old and still has original plumbing, you may be at higher risk.
Discoloured water or a metallic taste can indicate corroded pipes. Regular inspections help identify these issues before they become emergencies.
Ground Movement & Nearby Construction
Soil shifts, nearby excavation work, or even gardening can disturb underground pipes. Perth’s sandy soils can settle and shift over time, placing stress on buried water lines. Even minor landscaping projects can accidentally damage shallow pipes if you’re not careful about where you dig.
In Perth and surrounding areas, burst pipe risks can also be affected by sandy soils, ageing plumbing, and fluctuating water pressure. Local conditions make regular plumbing checks especially important.
What Damage Can a Burst Pipe Cause?
A burst pipe can do more than create a mess. In many cases, it can lead to serious damage inside the home if it is not dealt with quickly.
Indoor Flooding
Burst pipes can quickly flood kitchens, bathrooms, laundries, and wall cavities. Even a small amount of water can damage floors, cabinetry, and plasterboard.
Pests and Bacteria in Stagnant Water
Standing water and ongoing dampness can lead to mould, mildew, and unhealthy indoor conditions. If left too long, this can also attract pests and create lingering odours.
Structural Damage
In more serious cases, water from a burst pipe can affect timber, wall framing, ceilings, and even parts of the home’s structure. The longer it goes unnoticed, the more costly the repairs can become.
Because a burst pipe can escalate quickly, it should always be treated as a plumbing emergency. Acting fast can reduce both water damage and repair costs.
What Should You Do If a Pipe Bursts?
Quick action minimises damage when a pipe bursts. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Turn Off the Water
Locate your main water shut-off valve and turn it off immediately. This stops additional water from flooding your property.
Step 2: Call a Licensed Plumber
Contact Aus Star Plumbing & Gas straight away. We offer emergency plumbing services across Baldivis, Rockingham, Mandurah, and surrounding areas.
A licensed plumber can locate the source of the problem, isolate the damaged section, and carry out repairs safely and to code.
Step 3: Start Clean-Up
Use towels and buckets to absorb standing water. Move furniture and valuables away from affected areas. Open windows to improve ventilation and prevent mould.
Step 4: Check for Electrical Hazards
If water is near power points or electrical appliances, don’t attempt clean-up until the area is safe. Contact a licensed electrician if needed.
How Can You Prevent Pipes from Bursting?
Prevention is always more cost-effective than emergency repairs. Here’s how to protect your plumbing:
Monitor Your Water Pressure
Have your water pressure tested during routine plumbing inspections. If it consistently exceeds 500 kPa, consider installing a pressure-limiting valve to protect your system.
Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections
Annual check-ups help identify worn fittings, hidden leaks, and early signs of corrosion before they escalate into burst pipes.
Be Careful When Digging
Always check the location of underground services before starting garden or landscaping projects. Use the Dial Before You Dig service to map utility lines on your property.
Choose Trees Wisely
Plant trees with non-invasive root systems away from water lines. Species like figs and eucalyptus should be kept well clear of underground pipes, or consider installing root barriers.
Upgrade Outdated Pipes
If your home has ageing galvanised or corroded copper pipes, upgrading to modern materials like PEX or pressure-rated poly can prevent future problems.
If you are dealing with a burst pipe or want to reduce the risk of one, Aus Star Plumbing & Gas can help with fast repairs and preventative plumbing inspections across Perth’s southern suburbs. Contact our team to arrange assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Burst Pipes
1. How do I know if a pipe has burst underground?
Underground burst pipes often cause soggy patches in the garden, low water pressure, higher water bills, or the sound of running water when no taps are on.
2. Can a burst pipe cause structural damage?
Yes. If left untreated, a burst pipe can damage flooring, walls, ceilings, timber, and other structural elements within the home.
3. Are older homes more likely to have burst pipes?
Yes. Older homes with ageing galvanised or corroded copper pipes are generally at a higher risk of leaks and burst pipe problems.
4. Should I turn off the mains water if I suspect a burst pipe?
Yes. Turning off the mains water is one of the first steps you should take to reduce further water damage.
5. Can tree roots really break water pipes?
Yes. Tree roots can grow into weak points or joints in underground lines and eventually crack or displace the pipe.
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