Sunshine Coast Burst Pipe and Blocked Drain Plumbers

When it comes to plumbing issues, few problems are as serious or disruptive as a burst pipe or blocked drain. On both residential and commercial properties, damaged pipes or drains can quickly cause flooding, water damage, and costly repairs.

If you find yourself in the middle of a plumbing emergency, the first thing to do is stop the water flow through the affected plumbing by turning off the water at the meter (you’ll usually find this just outside the fence line or boundary of your property). The next thing to do is call an emergency plumber!

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Common Pipe Problems in Homes and Businesses

Modern plumbing systems usually contain several different pipe materials, and while plumbing technology is constantly improving, each type of pipe has its own weaknesses, and understanding these can help you spot issues early:

PVC Pipes

PVC pipes are common in modern plumbing systems due to their affordability and resistance to corrosion. However, they can become brittle over time, especially when exposed to UV light or extreme temperature changes. This brittleness increases the risk of cracks and bursts. PVC pipes can also suffer from pressure due to ground movement and tree root intrusion, leading to blocked drains.

Copper Pipes

Copper pipes are durable and long-lasting, but they aren’t immune to problems. High water pressure or freezing conditions can cause copper pipes to burst. They’re also prone to pinhole leaks caused by internal corrosion, which may start small but can lead to more leakage over time. Blockages in copper systems can also occur when scale or mineral deposits build up, reducing water flow.

Polybutylene Pipes

Polybutylene pipes are often grey and semi-flexible, and were widely used from the 1970s to the 1990s but have come to be known for their high failure rate, and they are no longer “up to code” for new construction work. This is due to their vulnerability to bursting when exposed to chlorine in the water supply, which weakens the material.

Leaking or blocked drains in these systems can also result from pipe degradation and material breaking off inside the pipework. If you suspect you have Polybutylene pipes on your property, an inspection by a licenced plumber can identify potential problems, which can take decades to appear in pipes of this type.

Galvanised Pipes

Galvanised pipes were also once a popular choice but are notorious for rust and corrosion over time. As the interior corrodes, water flow slows, and blockages become common. Eventually, the weakened metal can crack or burst under pressure. You can often tell a potential issue has arisen in galvanised pipes if you notice water discolouration in running water. If your home still has galvanised pipes, an inspection is recommended, and replacing them may be needed to prevent sudden plumbing issues.

Agricultural Pipes

Agricultural pipe (often called Ag-pipe) is a wide, ribbed, lightweight and flexible plastic pipe most often used in outdoor underground drainage. Ag-pipe is reliable for its intended purpose, but may need replacing after time, and can also become blocked due to debris and soil carried in drainage runoff. It is also susceptible to crushing by tree roots, ground movement, or physical damage, such as when a heavy vehicle or new construction creates extreme pressure on the ground above.

Poly Pipes

Polyethylene or “poly pipes” are usually black with a blue or green stripe and very flexible, and they are resistant to many forms of damage. However, they can still burst or split around fittings if subjected to freezing conditions or excessive pressure. Poor installation or accidental damage from digging or construction can also cause leaks. Blockages in poly pipes caused by dirt, debris, or mineral build-up in rural water supplies are not uncommon.

Professional Burst Pipe and Blocked Drain Solutions

Whether you’re dealing with old galvanised pipes, brittle PVC, or failing polybutylene, a professional plumber can diagnose the problem and provide the right repair or replacement solution. Early intervention not only saves money but also protects your property from water damage.

If you suspect a burst pipe or blocked drain, call a licensed plumber to get it fixed fast. Call BCJ Plumbing today for expert, reliable service.