Commercial properties face unique plumbing challenges that residential buildings simply don’t encounter, from higher water usage to complex piping systems. Understanding why pipes fail can help you take preventive measures before disaster strikes. Learn the common reasons your business’s pipes suddenly burst and act to avoid future surprises.
1. Freezing Temperatures
Cold weather poses the most immediate threat to your commercial plumbing system. Water expands when it freezes, creating immense pressure inside your pipes that causes them to crack or burst completely.
Pipes located in unheated areas, such as basements, crawl spaces, or exterior walls, are particularly vulnerable during the winter months. The type of material used in your pipe fittings plays a significant role in freeze resistance, with copper and PEX materials generally handling temperature fluctuations better than older galvanized steel or PVC systems.
2. Corrosion
Time and chemistry work against your plumbing infrastructure every day. Corrosion occurs when pipe materials react with water, oxygen, and minerals, gradually weakening the pipe walls until they no longer withstand normal water pressure. Your local water supply’s pH level can accelerate or slow this process, making some businesses more vulnerable than others based purely on their geographic location.
The different materials and styles of pipe fittings play a great role in mitigating corrosion. For instance, brass fittings have high corrosion resistance and make them suitable for potable water and chemicals. Inspections avoid corrosion from spreading and keep potential bursts to a minimum.
3. Excessive Water Pressure
High water pressure might seem beneficial for your business operations, but it may destroy your plumbing system from the inside out. Commercial pipes vary in the amount of pressure they can handle, with copper fittings supporting anywhere from 80-1000 PSI safely, while steel pipes may handle up to 10,000 PSI. Water pressure issues often stem from municipal supply fluctuations, faulty pressure regulators, or closed valves that create pressure buildups throughout your system.
4. Age of Pipes
Every piping system has an expiration date, regardless of maintenance quality. Pipes installed 20-30 years ago were built with different standards and materials than modern systems, making them more prone to sudden failures.
Cast iron pipes, common in older commercial buildings, typically last 50-100 years before requiring replacement, while copper pipes function for 70-80 years under proper conditions. The connecting joints and fittings often fail before the pipes themselves, especially if they were installed with outdated materials that degrade over time, such as lead solder or low-quality gaskets.
5. Tree Root Invasion
Underground pipes face a hidden enemy that grows stronger each year. Tree roots naturally seek water sources and detect even tiny leaks in your underground plumbing system. Once roots find a weak point, they infiltrate and expand inside the pipe, causing your business’s pipes to suddenly burst from blockages.
This problem particularly affects sewer lines and main water supply pipes that run beneath landscaped areas. The joints between pipe sections provide the easiest entry points for roots, which is why professional installation teams use root-resistant materials and proper sealing techniques around these vulnerable connections.
Burst pipes are a business expense you’ll want to avoid. Regular inspections by qualified plumbers identify potential problems before they become emergencies that shut down your business operations. Contact a licensed commercial plumber today to evaluate your system and develop a preventive maintenance plan that protects your business investment.
Image Credentials: By iredding01, 97196345
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