Four Ways To Prevent Burst Pipes

In large facilities, burst pipes can quickly become a costly disruption, especially during cold weather. Vestibules, exterior walls, and ceilings are particularly vulnerable, as pipes in these locations are often uninsulated or semi-exposed. When temperatures drop, the risk of freezing increases, making preventive measures essential.

Simple solutions like insulation and heat tape can help protect pipes. Heat tape provides gentle, low-voltage warmth, while insulation helps maintain stable temperatures. Following local building codes is critical for fire protection systems. Outdoor areas, such as dining spaces, often require glycol-based antifreeze solutions to prevent freezing.

But freezing isn’t the only culprit behind burst pipes. Joint failures from improper installation, sudden pressure surges (water hammer), and inadequate pipe support can weaken plumbing over time, leading to unexpected failures.

By addressing these risks proactively, facilities can avoid costly repairs and ensure reliable water systems year-round.

Choose the Right Solvent Cement for Pipe Integrity
Solvent cement chemically fuses pipe and fitting surfaces, creating a strong, unified bond. While no single cement is designed exclusively for large facilities, selecting the right type depends on the system’s specific needs.

• Industrial Applications: Industrial CPVC cement resists caustic and acidic waste, ensuring chemical durability.
• Cold Environments: Standard solvent cement remains effective if pipes and fittings are rated for low temperatures; these can be rated from 0°F down to -15°F.
• Quick Repairs: Fast-setting cements enable rapid plumbing line reactivation.
• Large-Diameter Piping: Heavy Bodied Cements with added resins fill gaps and strengthen bonds, reducing joint failure risk.

Install Proper Pipe Supports
Pipe supports are critical in preventing failures by minimizing movement and stress caused by expansion, contraction, and vibrations. Best practices for installation include:

• Following local codes for spacing and weight-bearing requirements.
• Using appropriate hanger materials prevents corrosion, e.g., avoiding direct steel-on-copper contact.
• Installing expansion joints in long pipe runs to accommodate thermal movement without adding stress to the system.

Identify and Reinforce Vulnerable Areas
Certain areas within a facility are more susceptible to pipe bursts, including:

• Exterior walls and vestibules, where pipes are exposed to fluctuating temperatures.
• Drop ceilings with inadequate insulation to provide proper thermal protection.
• Long pipe runs, where expansion and contraction stress joints over time.
• Rigidly installed pipes without expansion joints, causing cracking due to stress.

Reinforcement strategies include insulation, well-placed expansion joints, and secure pipe support. These clamps feature a self-closing design that ensures a tight grip on the pipe, reducing movement and potential wear over time.

In addition, cushion pipe clamps help absorb vibrations and mitigate water hammer, improving overall system stability to prevent structural failures.

Employ Preventive Maintenance for Long-Term Pipe Integrity
To prevent burst pipes, take the following proactive steps to implement routine inspections and maintenance:

• Conduct visual inspections to identify sagging pipes, missing supports, or excessive movement.
• Add insulation to pipes exposed to cold temperatures.
• Ensure pipes are properly supported and spaced according to code.
• Listen for banging or vibrations, which may indicate water hammer issues or inadequate pipe support.
• Address minor leaks or joint weaknesses before they become major failures.

By following these best practices – applying proper insulation, securing pipes with reliable supports, and using high-quality solvent cement – you can significantly reduce the risk of burst pipes and ensure a durable, efficient plumbing system.

Sean Comerford is a Technical Applications Manager at Oatey Co. He is a third-generation tradesman with nearly 20 years of plumbing experience, including serving as the lead plumber for commercial/residential new-construction, service and fire protection jobs. He holds a State of Ohio Fire Protection License for Sprinkler and Standpipe.