Burst Pipe Emergencies in Tacoma: Fast Response Guide for Homeowners

A burst pipe is one of the most destructive home emergencies a Tacoma homeowner can face. Within minutes, hundreds of gallons of water can flood your home, destroying floors, walls, furniture, and personal belongings. Unlike slow leaks that give warning signs, burst pipes happen suddenly often in the middle of the night or when you're away from home.

Pierce County's combination of aging homes, freeze-thaw cycles, and older plumbing infrastructure makes burst pipes a common winter emergency. Knowing what causes pipes to burst, how to respond immediately, and when to call professionals can mean the difference between minor damage and a complete disaster.

This guide covers:

• Why pipes burst in Tacoma homes

• Warning signs before a burst

• Immediate emergency steps

• Long-term damage prevention

• When to call ServiceMaster of Tacoma

Why Pipes Burst in Tacoma Homes

1. Freezing Temperatures

Tacoma's winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing at night, especially in January and February. When water inside pipes freezes, it expands with tremendous force enough to split copper, PVC, and even steel pipes.

Most vulnerable locations:

• Pipes in exterior walls (especially north-facing)

• Uninsulated crawlspaces

• Attics and garages

• Outdoor hose bibs

• Pipes near foundation vents

The burst often doesn't happen while pipes are frozen it occurs when ice melts and water pressure returns to the weakened section.

2. Age and Corrosion

Many Tacoma homes, particularly in historic neighborhoods like North End, Old Town, Proctor District, and Stadium District , have plumbing that's 50-100+ years old. Over time:

• Galvanized steel pipes corrode from inside

• Copper pipes develop pinhole leaks

• Joints and fittings weaken

• Water pressure stresses deteriorated sections

A pipe that has been slowly corroding for decades can suddenly rupture under normal water pressure.

3. High Water Pressure

Tacoma's water pressure typically runs between 50-80 PSI, but can spike higher during certain conditions. Excessively high pressure constantly stresses pipes, joints, and fixtures. Over time, this pressure finds the weakest point and causes a rupture.

4. Tree Root Intrusion

Pierce County's abundant trees , Douglas firs, maples, and cedars , have extensive root systems that seek water sources. Roots can:

• Penetrate small cracks in water lines

• Expand and split pipes

• Create blockages that increase pressure

• Cause sudden pipe failure

5. Physical Damage

Pipes can burst from:

• Construction or renovation work

• Settling foundations

• Earthquake damage (even minor tremors)

• Vehicles or equipment striking exterior pipes

Warning Signs Before a Burst

While some bursts happen without warning, others give clues:

Water Pressure Changes

Sudden drops in water pressure, especially in one area of the house, can indicate a developing leak or blockage that may lead to a burst.

Discolored Water

Rusty or brown water suggests pipe corrosion. These corroded sections are prime candidates for rupture.

Water Stains

Stains on ceilings, walls, or floors indicate hidden leaks. A small leak can quickly become a complete rupture.

Strange Sounds

Banging, clanking, or whistling in pipes (called water hammer) indicates pressure issues that stress pipe systems.

Unusually High Water Bills

A sudden increase in water usage without explanation suggests a hidden leak that could worsen into a burst.

Immediate Emergency Steps When a Pipe Bursts

Step 1: Shut Off the Water (30 seconds)

Every second counts. Locate and turn off your main water shutoff valve immediately. In Tacoma homes, this is typically:

• Near where the water line enters the house

• In the basement or crawlspace

• In a utility closet

• Outside near the foundation or meter

Turn the valve clockwise until it stops. If you have a lever-style valve, turn it 90 degrees perpendicular to the pipe.

If you can't find the main shutoff, turn off water at the street-level meter using a water meter key (available at hardware stores). If you don't have one, call the City of Tacoma Water at 253-502-8384 for emergency shutoff.

Step 2: Turn Off Electricity (1 minute)

Water and electricity are a deadly combination. If water is near electrical outlets, appliances, or your electrical panel:

• Turn off electricity at the main breaker

• Do NOT enter standing water until power is off

• If you cannot safely reach the panel, call 911

Step 3: Document the Damage (2-3 minutes)

Before doing anything else, take photos and videos:

• The burst pipe location

• Water flow and flooding extent

• Damaged belongings and structures

• Water level marks on walls

This documentation is critical for insurance claims.

Step 4: Call ServiceMaster of Tacoma (Immediately)

Call for 24/7 emergency response. While waiting for professionals:

• Move furniture and valuables away from water

• Place buckets under drips

• Open windows for ventilation (if weather permits)

• Do NOT use household vacuums on standing water (electrical hazard)

Step 5: Begin Water Removal (If Safe)

If you can safely access the area:

• Use towels and mops for small amounts

• Open basement windows to promote air circulation

• Set up fans (only if no electrical hazards exist)

However, professional extraction is essential for:

• Large volumes of water

• Water in walls or subfloors

• Prevention of mold growth

• Proper structural drying

What NOT to Do After a Burst Pipe

• Don't delay shutting off water to save belongings first

• Don't use electrical appliances in wet areas

• Don't attempt repairs while water is still flowing

• Don't assume water damage is limited to visible areas

• Don't wait to call professionals thinking you can handle it yourself

The Professional Response Process

Emergency Water Extraction (Hours 1-4)

ServiceMaster of Tacoma arrives with industrial-grade equipment:

• Truck-mounted extractors (remove thousands of gallons per hour)

• Submersible pumps for deep water

• Weighted extraction tools for carpets

• Moisture meters to detect hidden water

Structural Drying (Days 1-5)

After extraction, drying prevents mold growth and structural damage:

• Commercial dehumidifiers (remove up to 150 pints/day)

• High-velocity air movers

• Thermal imaging cameras to find hidden moisture

• Daily moisture monitoring

Proper drying takes 3-5 days depending on the extent of flooding. Rushing this process leads to mold growth within 48 hours.

Damage Assessment and Repair

Once dry, assessment determines what must be replaced:

• Drywall that absorbed water (typically 12+ inches above water line)

• Carpeting and padding

• Insulation

• Baseboards and trim

• Hardwood flooring (if cupped or warped)

Long-Term Prevention Strategies

1. Insulate Vulnerable Pipes

Before winter:

• Wrap exposed pipes in foam sleeves

• Install heat tape on pipes in unheated areas

• Seal crawlspace vents in winter

• Insulate pipe chases in exterior walls

2. Maintain Consistent Heat

During cold snaps:

• Keep thermostat at 55°F minimum when away

• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation

• Let faucets drip slightly during freezing temperatures

3. Install a Pressure Regulator

If your home experiences high water pressure (above 80 PSI), install a pressure regulator to reduce stress on pipes.

4. Regular Plumbing Inspections

For homes over 30 years old, schedule professional plumbing inspections every 2-3 years to identify:

• Corroded pipes before they burst

• High-pressure issues

• Tree root intrusion

• Loose or deteriorating fittings

5. Know Your Shutoff Valve Location

Make sure every adult in your household knows:

• Where the main water shutoff is located

• How to turn it off

• Where the water meter key is stored (if needed)

Tag the valve with bright tape or a label so it's easy to find in an emergency.

Insurance Considerations

Most homeowner's insurance policies cover burst pipe damage, but:

• Document everything immediately

• Call your insurance company within 24 hours

• Keep all receipts for emergency repairs

• Work with professionals who provide insurance documentation

Insurance may NOT cover damage if:

• The home was vacant and unheated

• Negligent maintenance contributed to the burst

• The damage occurred gradually over time

When to Call ServiceMaster of Tacoma

Call us immediately if:

• A pipe has burst and water is flooding your home

• You cannot locate the water shutoff valve

• Water has been flowing for more than a few minutes

• Water has reached electrical outlets or appliances

• Flooding affects multiple rooms

• You need emergency water extraction and drying