First, stop the water
- Close the main shut-off. In most Clifton homes it's on the front basement wall where the line enters, next to the meter. Turn a round handle clockwise; turn a lever a quarter turn so it sits across the pipe.
- Turn off the water heater (gas to "pilot" or "off," electric at the breaker) so it doesn't heat an empty tank.
- Open the lowest faucet in the house to drain the pressure.
- Keep away from water near outlets or the panel. If water reaches electrical equipment, shut off power at the main breaker only if you can do so standing on a dry floor.
- Call us. Then take photos for your insurance claim.
Our step-by-step burst pipe guide covers the first 30 minutes in detail.
Why pipes burst in Clifton homes
Freezing. When water freezes, it expands and builds pressure in the pipe between the ice and a closed faucet. The split often happens away from the frozen spot. Pipes in exterior walls, unheated crawlspaces, garages and under kitchen sinks on outside walls are the usual victims on single-digit nights.
Corrosion. Galvanized steel supply pipe, still common in Clifton's pre-war houses, rusts from the inside. It can pinhole and then split with no freeze at all, often at a threaded joint.
High pressure. Water pressure above about 80 psi strains every joint and appliance hose in the house. A failed pressure-reducing valve can push pressure higher overnight when demand drops.
Old fittings and hoses. Rubber washing-machine hoses, plastic supply lines under sinks and toilets, and corroded shut-off valves are among the most common sources of sudden leaks.
Finding hidden leaks
Not every leak announces itself. Signs of a hidden leak include a water bill that jumps without explanation, the meter's leak indicator spinning with every tap off, a stain spreading on a ceiling, warm spots on a slab floor, or the sound of running water when nothing is on.
We find leaks with pressure testing, isolating zones of the system, moisture meters and thermal imaging, so we open the wall in one place, not five.
Repair or repipe?
A single split in otherwise sound copper is a quick repair. A pinhole in 90-year-old galvanized usually isn't the last one. When a house has had several leaks in a year, or pressure is poor throughout, a partial or whole-house repipe in copper or PEX is the long-term fix. We'll show you the condition of the pipe we cut out so you can see why we're recommending it.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do first when a pipe bursts?
Shut off the main water valve, turn off the water heater, open a low faucet to drain the pressure, and keep away from water near electrical outlets. Then call us and photograph the damage for your insurer. Our burst pipe guide has the full checklist.
How much does burst pipe repair cost in Clifton?
Typical North Jersey burst pipe repairs range from about $400 to $1,500 or more, depending on the pipe material, how much wall or ceiling has to open, and the time of the call. We quote in writing before starting.
Can you thaw a frozen pipe without it bursting?
Often, yes, if we get to it before it splits. We locate the frozen section and warm it gradually while relieving pressure. Never use an open flame on a pipe.
Does homeowners insurance cover burst pipes?
Many policies cover sudden water damage from a burst pipe but not damage from a slow, long-term leak or neglect. Coverage varies, so check your policy. We provide a written description of the cause and repair for your claim.
How do I know if I have a hidden leak?
Turn off every faucet and appliance, then watch the water meter. If the small leak indicator moves, water is flowing somewhere. Other signs are a rising bill, ceiling stains, damp walls or the sound of running water.
Why is my water pressure so low?
Whole-house low pressure in an older Clifton home usually means galvanized pipe narrowed by rust inside, or a failing pressure-reducing valve. Low pressure at one fixture usually means a clogged aerator or valve. We measure it to find out.
Should I repipe my house?
Repiping makes sense when you've had repeated leaks, pressure is poor throughout, or you find galvanized supply pipe in a house you plan to keep. It's a bigger job, but it ends the cycle of patching.