6 of the Most Common Causes for Cracked Pipes in South Florida

If you’ve lived in South Florida long enough, there’s a good chance you’ve dealt with the frustrations that come with cracked and broken pipes. That’s because cracked pipes are among the leading causes of water damage here. Luckily, knowing the most common causes of cracked pipes can help you identify and address problems quickly, avoiding more severe damage to your home.

Here are six of the primary culprits for cracked pipes in South Florida.

1. Weather: Extreme temperatures can cause water pipes to expand and contract, resulting in cracking or bursting. Hot summer months in South Florida often result in bursts due to the intense heat and humidity.
2. Water pressure: Excess water pressure in your pipes can cause them to crack, leak, and burst. This is often caused by oversized plumbing, faulty pipe fittings that haven’t been secured properly, or clogged plumbing lines.
3. Debris: Construction and repair work can sometimes lead to waste and other materials entering your pipes. When water pressure builds up behind that material, it can cause the pipe to break and flood your home. 
4. Corrosion: Corrosion is a common problem for pipes in older homes, which accounts for as many as 52% of residences in South Florida. As pipes age, they corrode and can eventually crack.
5. Tree roots: Tree roots often cause clogged pipes, but they can also cause cracks in your plumbing over time. The roots may eventually grow into the pipe and cause it to break.
6. Improperly sealed pipes: When an unskilled person tries to install new pipes and fittings or fix a pipe issue, the inner pipe is not always correctly sealed. When this happens, water pressure builds up inside the pipe and eventually causes a crack or a break. 

By understanding the most common causes of cracked pipes in South Florida, you can be better equipped to identify potential problems and address any issues quickly. This will help avoid more serious water damage and costly repairs. If you suspect a crack or issue with your plumbing, give us a call.

Raider Rooter has been helping South Florida maintain and manage its plumbing and sewer since 1978. So, let us put our expertise to work for you. And if you’re after tips and tricks for frequent plumbing problems, consult our blog for thorough and helpful information.