Burst Pipe Water Damage in Rockwall, TX

A burst pipe can release a large amount of water in a short time. Water spreads across floors, runs into walls and drips through ceilings below. The first hour matters: shutting off the water and starting cleanup quickly can limit how much of your home has to be dried or torn out.

If a pipe has burst in your Rockwall, TX home, shut off the main water valve and call our free referral line. We connect you with an independent local water damage restoration provider who can extract the water and begin drying.

Call (972) 000-0000

Signs of a burst or split pipe

• Water spraying, gushing or pouring from a wall, ceiling or cabinet
• A sudden drop in water pressure throughout the house
• Water coming through light fixtures or ceiling vents
• Bulging drywall, or ceiling paint filling with water
• Frost on exposed pipes or no water at all during a freeze, then leaks when it thaws
• Water pooling in the garage, attic or utility closet
• The loud sound of running water inside a wall

Why pipes burst in Rockwall homes

Hard freezes are rare in Rockwall, so many homes were not built with cold weather in mind. Pipes can run through attics, garages and exterior walls with little insulation. During the February 2021 winter storm, long stretches below freezing caused pipes all over North Texas to split, and many homeowners did not see water until the ice inside the pipe melted.

Pipes also burst without a freeze. High water pressure, old or corroded pipes, failed fittings and slab movement from the shrinking and swelling clay soil can all cause a sudden break. A failed water heater or washing machine supply line can release water just as fast.

What a water damage pro does

A burst pipe is usually a larger water loss that needs fast extraction and careful drying. A water damage restoration provider will usually:

• Extract standing water from floors and carpet with powerful pumps and extractors
• Map wet areas in floors, walls and ceilings with moisture meters
• Remove carpet pad, baseboards, drywall or insulation that can’t be dried in place
• Set up air movers and dehumidifiers and monitor moisture daily
• Move and protect furniture and belongings
• Document the damage with photos and readings for your insurance claim

You will also need a plumber to repair the broken pipe. Ask the provider about pricing, timelines and how they work with insurance companies before you approve the work.

What to do right now

1. Shut off the main water valve. If you don’t know where it is, check the garage, where the line enters the house, or the meter box by the curb.
2. Turn off electricity to wet areas at the breaker, but only if you can reach the panel without standing in water.
3. Open a faucet at the lowest point of the house to drain the remaining water from the lines.
4. Move valuables, electronics and furniture out of the water.
5. Take photos and video before cleanup starts.
6. Call your insurance company and our referral line.

Sudden, accidental pipe bursts are often covered by homeowners insurance, but every policy is different, so confirm with your insurer. Mold can start when materials stay wet for more than 24 to 48 hours.

Read next: what to do in the first hour, ceiling leak water damage and water damage cost and insurance basics.