Repairing Burst Pipes

EMERGENCY PIPE BURSTS, FREEZE DAMAGE & RESTORATION

What To Do When a Pipe Bursts in Your Spokane Home

A burst pipe isn’t just a plumbing problem—it's an emergency that can flood a home in minutes. Water rushes into walls, ceilings, and flooring, causing structural damage and creating ideal conditions for mold within 24–48 hours. At ServiceMaster by Compass, we help Spokane-area homeowners respond quickly and safely when a pipe ruptures, providing emergency water mitigation, cleanup, and guidance toward permanent repairs.

This guide walks you through the immediate emergency steps, the safest temporary fixes, how permanent repairs are handled for copper, PEX, and PVC pipes, and what to expect during water damage restoration. We also cover prevention strategies so you’re less likely to face this nightmare again.

IMMEDIATE STEPS WHEN A PIPE BURSTS

Stop the Water. Stay Safe. Limit Damage.

A burst pipe moves FAST. Gallons of water can spill into your home in a matter of minutes. Taking quick action reduces the severity of water damage and makes restoration faster and more affordable. Here’s your emergency checklist:

• Turn off the main water supply. Stopping the flow is priority #1.
• Shut off electricity to affected rooms if water is near outlets or appliances.
• Move valuables and electronics out of the wet area immediately.
• Contain water using towels, buckets, or anything absorbent you can grab.
• Apply a temporary patch only if it’s safe to get near the pipe.
• Call emergency restoration if the leak is large, inside walls, or still spreading.

FINDING & USING THE MAIN WATER SHUTOFF

Where It Typically Is & How to Close It

Most Spokane-area homes have their shutoff in one of these locations:

• In the basement near the front foundation wall
• Inside a utility room near the water heater
• In crawlspaces or on exterior walls in older homes
• At the outdoor meter box (HOA or municipal access)

Ball valves turn with a simple quarter-turn. Gate valves may require several turns. If the valve is stuck, don’t force it—you can break it and worsen the situation.

TEMPORARY FIXES FOR A BURST PIPE

Short-Term Solutions Until Permanent Repairs

Temporary fixes buy time but are not a substitute for professional repair. Common emergency solutions include:

• Epoxy putty: Works on wet surfaces and forms a hardened seal.
• Rubber patch + hose clamp: Compresses rubber over a crack or split.
• Pipe repair tape: Creates a wrapped seal, best for hairline cracks.

These fixes usually last hours to days. They stabilize the situation so restoration can begin and a plumber can perform permanent repairs.

PERMANENT PIPE REPAIRS

How Copper, PEX & PVC Pipes Are Professionally Repaired

The correct repair method depends on the pipe material and the severity of the damage.

Copper Pipe Repairs

• Soldering: The most durable method when done correctly.
• Compression fittings: No flame required, ideal for tight spaces.
• Push-fit connectors: Fast installation and no heat involved.

If the pipe shows corrosion or multiple failures, replacing a full section may be the safest long-term solution.

PEX Pipe Repairs

• Crimp or expansion fittings depending on your home’s PEX system.
• Replacement of damaged runs for freeze-prone areas.

PVC Pipe Repairs

• Solvent-weld joints: Permanent and strong when installed correctly.
• Mechanical couplings: Ideal when space is tight or moisture is present.

WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP AFTER A BURST PIPE

Why Fast Drying Matters

Burst pipes cause more damage than most homeowners expect. Water travels behind walls, under flooring, and into insulation. Mold grows quickly if drying isn’t immediate.

• Extract standing water
• Set up high-capacity air movers & dehumidifiers
• Remove soaked drywall, carpet, padding & insulation
• Sanitize surfaces to prevent microbial growth
• Monitor moisture until materials are fully dry

Professional drying reduces long-term structural damage and is often required for insurance-covered restoration.

INSURANCE CLAIM HELP

Document Everything

Burst pipes are usually covered under homeowners insurance if the cause is sudden and accidental. Insurers expect:

• Photos and videos of all damage
• Proof you acted quickly to mitigate further damage
• Professional moisture readings and drying logs
• Estimates for repairs and restoration

Our team helps document and communicate with adjusters to make the process easier.

PREVENTING FUTURE BURST PIPES

Simple Upgrades That Make a Big Difference

• Insulate exposed pipes in crawlspaces & basements
• Install heat tape in freeze-prone areas
• Add a pressure regulator to prevent pipe stress
• Use smart leak detectors with auto-shutoff
• Disconnect outdoor hoses before winter

Prevention is always cheaper than emergency restoration—especially during severe cold snaps.

Whether you're facing an active burst pipe or want to strengthen your home's defenses, ServiceMaster by Compass is here to help you prevent, repair, and restore with confidence.