Learn What Causes A Pipe To Burst In Summer

Knowing what causes a pipe to burst in summer can help you avoid facing this complex plumbing problem this season. The causes can range from roots, corrosion, and age to high water pressure, clogs, and extreme heating. 

Burst pipes are not just a winter phenomenon—they can and do happen in the summer. Today, you will explore the causes of summer pipe bursts, the frequency with which they occur, and effective solutions to fix and prevent them.

Can Pipes Burst In The Summer?

Yes, pipes can absolutely burst in the summer, and it is a common plumbing issue. While it is more common to associate pipe bursts with freezing winter temperatures, summer brings conditions that can stress plumbing systems. 

Heat, increased water usage, and even unexpected temperature fluctuations can all contribute to the weakening and eventual bursting of pipes. Continue reading to learn more possible causes.

Can Pipes Burst In Warm Weather?

Indeed, pipes can burst even in warm weather. Warm temperatures can cause pipes to expand, and if there are any weak spots or structural vulnerabilities, this expansion can lead to a burst. 

Moreover, summer months often increase water usage for activities such as watering lawns, filling swimming pools, and more frequent showers, which can put additional pressure on the plumbing system.

Why Do Pipes Burst In Summer?

Several reasons cause a pipe to burst in summer: extreme heat, increased water pressure, ground shifts, old or corroded pipes, tree root intrusion, clogged pipes, hard water, alternating wet and dry spells, and poor installation. Read the list below to know the details. 

1. Extreme Heat: High temperatures can cause pipes to expand and contract. This constant movement can weaken the pipe material over time, leading to cracks or bursts.

2. Increased Water Pressure: The demand for water typically increases due to activities like watering gardens, filling pools, and increasing household water usage. It can elevate the pressure within the pipes, making them more susceptible to bursting.

3. Ground Shifts: The heat can dry out and shift the ground, pressuring underground pipes and causing them to crack or burst.

4. Old Or Corroded Pipes: Pipes that are already old or corroded are more vulnerable to bursts during the summer when they are subjected to additional heat stress and increased water pressure.

5. Tree Root Intrusion: Tree roots can invade and grow around pipes in the quest for water. As roots expand, they can exert pressure on pipes, causing them to burst.

6. Clogged Pipes: Blockages in pipes can restrict water flow, increasing pressure on the pipe walls. In the summer, increased water usage can exacerbate this pressure, leading to bursts and plumbing leaks.

7. Hard Water: Water with high mineral content can cause scale buildup inside pipes, narrowing the internal diameter. This increases water pressure and can lead to bursts, especially when water demand is high in the summer.

8. Alternating Wet And Dry Spells: Periods of heavy rain followed by dry spells can cause the ground to expand and contract. This movement can stress pipes, particularly buried ones, leading to potential bursts.

9. Poor Installation: Pipes that are not installed correctly or made of substandard materials are more likely to burst in summer conditions.

Although plenty of causes may burst a pipe in summer, it is not the most frequent accident to happen in warmer periods. Take a look at the next section to learn how often this happens. 

How Often Do Pipes Burst?

The frequency of pipe bursts can vary widely depending on several factors, including the age of the plumbing system, the quality of the materials used, the local climate, and how well the plumbing is maintained–this is your sign to plan that general home plumbing maintenance. 

In regions with extreme temperature fluctuations or where the soil composition leads to frequent ground shifts, pipe bursts may be more common. However, with regular maintenance and timely repairs, the occurrence of burst pipes can be significantly minimized.

Whether you worry about what causes a pipe to burst in summer or need a good contractor to work on your plumbing system, Wisercosts' plumbers are the best professionals you will find. Call them now and arrange a visit!