Are you finding water stains on your walls? Do you hear clanking sounds when you run water? If so, it might be due to a broken pipe. This article will explore common causes of broken pipes and a few signs that your living space might have one.

What Causes Broken Pipes?

Broken pipes can be the result of various things. Some of the most common culprits behind them include:

  • Freezing temperatures
  • Old or worn pipe pieces
  • Tree roots
  • Strong water pressure
  • Clogs

5 Signs You Might Have a Broken Pipe

There are Water Stains: One common sign that your home has a broken pipe is that you see water stains on your walls or ceiling. Most of the time, these stains indicate that the pipe is corroded and leaking water. If the pipes are located close to your walls, they will soak into them causing discoloration and potential mold growth.

There are Strange Smells or Sounds Coming From the Pipes: If you smell an unpleasant odor or hear loud noises behind your walls, it could be a cracked pipe. The strong odor is usually because of heavy minerals in the pipe that caused it to crack. On the other hand, unusual sounds tend to indicate an obstruction or puncture that is adjusting the air pressure inside the pipe.

You Have a High Water Bill: Another indicator that you have a broken pipe is that your water bill is surprisingly high. This shows that there’s a leak somewhere causing the pipe to constantly drip. Because it doesn’t stop, the consistent water flow will rack up your water bill and will continue to do so until it’s fixed.

Your Home Has Poor Water Pressure: Poor water pressure often shows there’s a problem with your pipes. While this could be a sign of a blockage, it could also be due to a crack in the pipe causing water to drip out of it.

The Water is Discolored: Discolored water is caused by mineral build-up, especially iron and manganese. If you find that discolored water is coming out of your faucet, it could indicate that you have rusting pipes that could be corroding.

Broken pipes are a common issue in homes, especially if they are older. If you’re concerned you might have water damage caused by a broken pipe, contact RCS. We offer a 24-hour water extraction service in Sonoma County that will quickly remove water damage. We can also offer tips as to how you can keep your pipes in good condition.