Burst pipe cleanup in Joliet happens all year, not only in January. Old galvanized supply lines corrode from the inside, copper develops pinhole leaks, and a loose fitting behind a wall can run for hours before anyone sees a wet floor.
A half-inch supply line at house pressure can put out several gallons a minute. That water is clean when it leaves the pipe, which makes it Category 1. It doesn't stay that way. After a couple of days sitting in carpet, drywall and insulation, it moves up to Category 2, and more material has to come out.
Our crew extracts standing water, pulls baseboard, and checks every wall and ceiling the water may have reached. Wet fiberglass batts are removed because they hold water against the studs. Drywall can often be saved if we get to it early. Then we set up dehumidifiers and air movers for structural drying.
We don't repair the pipe. Shut off the main valve, call a plumber, and call us at the same time. Plumbing and drying can happen on the same visit.
If the pipe froze, see frozen pipe burst repair cleanup. If you're looking at a ceiling stain, see ceiling water damage. Call (815) 595-0220.
