Burst Water Pipe Outside House? Here’s What to Do

A soggy patch of grass that never dries out. A water bill that suddenly doubles for no reason. A strange drop in water pressure when you’re trying to take a shower. These aren’t just random household quirks; they are often the first subtle clues of a serious problem lurking underground. A burst water pipe outside house doesn’t always announce itself with a dramatic geyser on your front lawn. More often, it’s a slow, hidden leak that can waste thousands of gallons of water and silently cause damage to your property’s foundation. This guide will walk you through how to spot the tell-tale signs, understand the common causes, and know exactly what steps to take to protect your Fort Collins home.

Key Takeaways

• Know the subtle warnings and take immediate action: Unexplained puddles, low water pressure, or a high water bill are clear signs of a burst pipe. Your first and most critical step is to locate and shut off your main water valve to minimize damage.
• Prevent bursts with seasonal maintenance: A few key tasks can save you from a major headache. Focus on insulating exposed pipes before the first freeze, draining outdoor spigots each fall, and regularly checking that your home’s water pressure isn’t too high.
• Don’t attempt a DIY repair on a burst pipe: An underground leak requires professional expertise and equipment for a safe and effective fix. Calling a licensed plumber not only resolves the issue correctly but also provides the formal documentation you’ll need for any insurance claims.

How to Spot a Burst Outdoor Pipe

A burst pipe isn’t always a dramatic geyser shooting up from your lawn. Often, the signs are much more subtle. Knowing what to look for can help you catch a problem early, saving you from extensive water damage and costly repairs. If you notice any of the following signs around your Fort Collins home, it’s time to investigate. An underground leak can waste thousands of gallons of water and even damage your home’s foundation if left unchecked. Paying attention to your property can make all the difference.

Puddles or pooling water in your yard

This is one of the most straightforward clues. If you spot puddles, standing water, or a mini swamp forming in your yard when it hasn’t been raining, an underground pipe is the likely culprit. A broken water line will continuously release water into the surrounding soil, which eventually becomes saturated and pushes the excess water to the surface. Don’t dismiss a random wet spot, especially if it never seems to dry out. It’s a clear signal that something is wrong with your home’s plumbing system and needs immediate attention before the problem gets worse.

A sudden drop in water pressure

Have you noticed your shower feels more like a drizzle than a downpour? Or does your kitchen faucet lack its usual force? A sudden and noticeable drop in water pressure throughout your home is a classic sign of a leak somewhere in your main water line. When a pipe bursts, a significant amount of water escapes before it ever reaches your faucets. This diversion of water means there’s less pressure to go around for your daily needs. If your water flow has gone from strong to sluggish, it’s a good idea to check for other signs of a leak.

An unexpected spike in your water bill

Your monthly water bill can be a powerful diagnostic tool. If you get a bill that’s significantly higher than usual, and you can’t explain it with increased usage (like watering the lawn more or having house guests), you may have a hidden leak. A burst pipe can waste a surprising amount of water 24/7, and that usage will show up on your statement. Before you assume it’s a billing error, take a walk around your property to look for other signs. An unusually high bill is often the first warning sign homeowners in areas like Loveland and Windsor notice.

Soggy or unusually green patches of grass

Take a look at your lawn. If you see a patch of grass that is much greener and more lush than the rest of your yard, it might be getting some extra, unintended watering from a leaky pipe below. The constant supply of water acts like a fertilizer, causing the grass directly above the leak to thrive. Alternatively, you might just find a perpetually soggy or mushy area. This is especially telling during dry spells. A burst pipe in your drain and sewer line can also cause this, so it’s a sign worth investigating right away.

Hissing or bubbling sounds from the ground

Sometimes, you can hear a burst pipe before you see it. If you stand near where your main water line enters your property, listen carefully. Do you hear a faint hissing, bubbling, or even a roaring sound coming from underground? This is the sound of water escaping a pressurized pipe and moving through the soil. You might hear it most clearly at night when your neighborhood is quiet. These auditory clues are a sure sign that water is leaking somewhere between the street and your house, and it’s time to call a professional.

Discolored or rusty tap water

If the water coming from your faucets suddenly looks brown, yellow, or rusty, it’s a serious red flag. A break in your main water line can allow dirt, sediment, and other contaminants from the surrounding soil to enter your water supply. This not only looks unappealing but can also pose a health risk. Discolored water indicates a breach in the integrity of your plumbing system. You should avoid drinking the water until the source of the problem is found and fixed. This issue often points to a need for both pipe repair and a look at your water treatment options.

Found a Burst Pipe? What to Do Right Now

Discovering a burst pipe in your yard can feel overwhelming, but taking quick, decisive action can make all the difference. The gushing water and potential for damage are stressful, but the key is to stay calm and follow a few critical steps. This isn’t just about damage control; it’s about protecting your home’s foundation, your landscaping, and preventing a massive water bill. By acting fast, you can significantly reduce the impact of the break. While your first instinct might be to panic, having a clear plan is your best defense against further issues.

Think of this as your emergency checklist. We’ll walk you through exactly what to do, one step at a time, so you can handle this plumbing emergency with confidence. The immediate goals are simple: stop the flow of water, document the problem, and get professional help on the way. It’s important to remember that outdoor pipe breaks, especially those underground, are not a DIY project. They require specialized equipment and knowledge to fix correctly without causing more harm. Each action you take is a step toward getting your home back to normal. From shutting off the water main to clearing nearby drains, these measures will help you manage the situation until an expert arrives. Before you do anything else, take a deep breath and let’s get started.

Shut off the main water supply to your home

The absolute first thing you need to do is stop the water at its source. Find your home’s main water shut-off valve and turn it clockwise until it’s completely closed. This valve is often located in a basement, crawl space, or utility closet. If you can’t find it inside, check for a valve box in your yard near the street, usually close to your water meter. Shutting off the water immediately prevents thousands of gallons from flooding your yard, seeping into your foundation, or causing further erosion. This single action is the most effective way to prevent extensive water damage while you wait for professional help to arrive.

Open outdoor faucets to drain the lines

Once the main water supply is off, there’s still water left in your pipes. To get it out, you need to relieve the pressure in the system. Go around your house and open all the outdoor faucets and spigots. This allows the remaining water to drain out safely onto the ground instead of continuing to leak from the broken section of the pipe. It’s a simple but crucial step that helps empty the lines completely, making the situation more manageable and preparing the system for repair. This process ensures that the pressure doesn’t contribute to making the existing break any worse while you coordinate the next steps.

Take photos of the damage for your records

Before anything gets moved or repaired, pull out your phone and start documenting the scene. Take clear photos and videos of the burst pipe, the pooling water, and any damage to your yard, landscaping, or home foundation. Get shots from multiple angles, both close-up and from a distance. This visual evidence is incredibly important when you file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance. Having a thorough record of the damage can streamline the claims process and help ensure you get the coverage you need for repairs. Don’t skip this step—it can save you a lot of headaches later on.

Call JT Plumbing Heating & Air for emergency repair

A burst outdoor pipe is not a DIY fix. These lines are often buried and require specialized tools and expertise to access and repair safely. Your next call should be to a professional. Our team at JT Plumbing Heating & Air is ready to handle these emergencies 24/7. We serve homeowners across Fort Collins, Loveland, and Greeley with prompt, reliable service. When you contact our team, we’ll dispatch an expert technician to assess the damage, locate the break, and perform the necessary repairs to get your water system back in working order. Don’t wait—the sooner you call, the sooner we can resolve the problem and prevent further damage.

Move valuables away from the affected area

While the burst pipe is outside, the water can still threaten property stored nearby. If the water is pooling near a garage, shed, or your home’s foundation, take a moment to move any valuables to a higher, drier location. This could include lawn equipment, storage bins, vehicles, or anything in a basement that might be at risk if water starts to seep through the foundation walls. Your priority is to protect your belongings from water damage. This proactive step can save you the cost and hassle of replacing items that get soaked. Even if the risk seems low, it’s always better to be cautious and move things out of harm’s way.

Clear any nearby drains of debris

As water pools in your yard, you want to give it somewhere to go. Check any nearby storm drains, French drains, or other drainage systems for blockages. Clear away leaves, mud, grass clippings, or any other debris that could be preventing water from flowing away from your property. A clear drain can help manage the pooling water and direct it away from your home’s foundation, minimizing the risk of structural damage or basement flooding. If you notice your drains are slow or clogged even after clearing surface debris, it could indicate a bigger issue, which is something our drain and sewer experts can investigate during the repair visit.

Common Causes of Burst Outdoor Pipes

A burst pipe in your yard can feel like a random disaster, but there’s almost always a specific reason it happened. Understanding what causes these underground breaks is the first step toward preventing them from happening in the first place. From our harsh Colorado winters to the beautiful, mature trees lining streets in Fort Collins and Loveland, several factors can put your outdoor plumbing at risk.

Knowing the “why” can help you spot early warning signs and protect your property from costly water damage. Most pipe failures don’t happen overnight; they’re often the result of gradual stress or wear and tear. Let’s walk through the most common culprits so you can be more aware of what’s happening beneath your lawn.

Freezing temperatures and expanding ice

Here in Northern Colorado, we’re no strangers to freezing weather. When water inside a pipe freezes, it expands with incredible force. This expansion can create a blockage, causing water pressure to build up behind the ice until the pipe wall gives way and ruptures. While we often think about insulating indoor pipes, those buried underground aren’t always safe from a deep freeze, especially if they aren’t buried deep enough or are in exposed areas. This is one of the most frequent causes of emergency plumbing calls we get during the winter months.

Shifting soil or ground movement

The ground beneath your feet isn’t as static as it seems. Soil can shift due to heavy construction nearby, erosion, or the natural freeze-thaw cycles we experience in areas like Windsor and Greeley. This movement puts immense stress on buried water and sewer lines. Over time, this constant pressure can bend, crack, or completely break a pipe. The expansive clay soil common in our region is particularly prone to this kind of movement, making it a significant risk factor for underground drain and sewer lines.

Old, corroded pipes

Like anything else, pipes have a lifespan. Older homes in communities like Berthoud or Johnstown may still have plumbing made from galvanized steel or cast iron. Over decades, these materials can corrode from the inside out. Rust weakens the pipe walls, making them brittle and thin. Eventually, they become so fragile that the normal pressure of the water flowing through them is enough to cause a crack or a complete burst. This deterioration is often invisible until a leak finally appears on the surface, requiring an immediate professional repair.

Intrusive tree roots

Mature trees add beauty and value to your property, but their roots can be a hidden threat to your plumbing. Tree roots are naturally drawn to the moisture and nutrients found inside water and sewer lines. They can invade pipes through tiny, existing cracks. Once inside, the roots expand, acting like a wedge that slowly but surely widens the crack until the pipe breaks apart. What starts as a minor imperfection can quickly become a major blockage and a burst pipe, all thanks to a thirsty tree.

Faulty installation or poor-quality materials

Sometimes, a pipe fails simply because it wasn’t installed correctly in the first place. Using low-quality materials to save money on an initial installation can lead to much bigger costs down the road. Likewise, improper installation techniques—like poorly joined connections, incorrect pipe bedding, or not burying the line deep enough—create weak points in the system. These flaws make the pipes vulnerable to bursting under normal operating conditions, long before they should have reached the end of their service life.

Excessively high water pressure

Good water pressure is great for a shower, but when it’s too high, it puts constant strain on your entire plumbing system. Think of it like having high blood pressure; it wears everything out faster. This excessive force stresses the pipes, fittings, and joints, accelerating wear and tear. Over time, this relentless pressure can cause a weak spot to fail, resulting in a sudden burst. Many homes have a pressure-reducing valve to manage this, but if it fails or isn’t set correctly, your pipes are at risk.

How to Prevent Outdoor Pipes from Bursting

Dealing with a burst pipe is a headache no one wants. The good news is that a little proactive care can go a long way in protecting your home’s outdoor plumbing. Taking a few preventative steps, especially before the cold Colorado winter sets in, can save you from the stress and expense of an emergency repair. Think of it as seasonal maintenance for your home’s circulatory system. By staying ahead of potential issues, you can keep your water flowing where it’s supposed to and avoid a waterlogged yard and a sky-high water bill. Here are some practical steps you can take to keep your outdoor pipes in top shape.

Insulate any exposed pipes before winter hits

Any pipes exposed to the elements are vulnerable when the temperature drops. This includes outdoor faucets, water sprinkler lines, and pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces or garages. You can wrap these pipes with foam pipe sleeves or insulation tape, which you can find at most hardware stores. For pipes that are especially prone to freezing, consider using heating cables, also known as “heat trace.” These cables provide a steady, low-level heat directly to the pipe to prevent ice from forming. It’s a simple and effective way to add a layer of defense against the harsh winter weather we see in Fort Collins and Greeley.

Shut off and drain outdoor water lines each fall

One of the most important autumn chores for any homeowner is winterizing outdoor water lines. Before the first freeze, find the shut-off valve for each outdoor faucet, which is usually located inside your home near the spigot. Turn it off, then go outside and open the faucet to let any remaining water drain out completely. Don’t forget to disconnect, drain, and store your garden hoses. Water left in a hose can freeze back into the pipe and cause the faucet or the connecting pipe inside your wall to burst. This simple, no-cost step is one of the most effective ways to prevent freeze-related damage.

Upgrade to frost-proof outdoor faucets

If you have older outdoor spigots, consider upgrading to frost-proof models. These faucets are designed differently from traditional ones; they shut the water off much deeper inside your home, where it’s warmer and protected from the cold. This design prevents water from sitting in the part of the pipe that’s exposed to freezing temperatures, making them far less likely to freeze and burst. Installing frost-proof faucets is a smart, long-term investment in protecting your home. It’s a relatively quick upgrade that our team can handle to give you peace of mind every winter.

Schedule regular professional pipe inspections

Sometimes, pipe problems aren’t obvious until it’s too late. That’s why scheduling regular plumbing inspections is a great preventative measure. A professional plumber can spot early signs of trouble, like corrosion, pinhole leaks, or stress points that you might miss. We can assess the condition of your outdoor pipes, check your water pressure, and identify any areas of concern before they escalate into a major burst. An annual check-up can catch issues caused by shifting soil or aging materials, ensuring your plumbing system is ready to handle whatever the seasons throw at it in communities from Loveland to Longmont.

Ensure proper drainage around your foundation

Water management around your home is crucial for protecting underground pipes. If your yard has poor drainage, water can saturate the soil around your foundation and your buried water lines. This saturated soil can freeze and expand in the winter, putting immense pressure on the pipes. It can also speed up corrosion. Make sure your gutters are clean and that downspouts direct water away from your foundation. Proper grading in your yard also helps prevent water from pooling. Taking care of your home’s drainage is a key part of a holistic approach to preventing drain and sewer issues.

Monitor your home’s water pressure

Water pressure that’s too high can put constant strain on your entire plumbing system, including the pipes outside. Over time, this stress can weaken pipe walls and fittings, leading to cracks and bursts. You can check your home’s pressure with a simple gauge that attaches to an outdoor faucet. Ideally, your home’s water pressure should be between 40 and 80 psi. If it’s consistently higher, you may need a pressure-reducing valve (PRV). A professional plumber can test your pressure and install a PRV if needed, protecting your pipes from unnecessary wear and tear.

Plan for replacing old pipes

Pipes don’t last forever. Depending on the material, the lifespan of your plumbing can range from 40 to 100 years. If you live in an older home in areas like Windsor or Eaton, your pipes might be nearing the end of their service life. Materials like galvanized steel can corrode from the inside out, becoming weak and brittle over time. It’s wise to have a plan for replacement before you’re faced with a catastrophic failure. During a regular inspection, we can assess the age and condition of your pipes and help you budget for a future replacement project.

Consider installing a leak detection system

For the ultimate protection, you might want to install an automatic leak detection system. These smart devices monitor your water flow patterns and can detect a potential leak or burst pipe. Some systems are so advanced that they can automatically shut off your main water supply the moment a problem is detected, preventing catastrophic water damage. While it’s an upfront investment, a leak detection system can save you thousands of dollars in repairs and give you incredible peace of mind, especially when you’re away from home. It’s a modern solution to an age-old problem.

When to Call a Professional for a Burst Pipe

While the DIY spirit is great for many home projects, a burst pipe isn’t one of them. This is a situation where you need to call in a professional right away. Trying to fix a burst outdoor pipe yourself can lead to more extensive damage, costing you more time and money in the long run. A licensed plumber has the specialized tools and experience to diagnose the problem accurately and perform a lasting repair. For homeowners in Fort Collins, Loveland, and the surrounding areas, a quick call for professional plumbing services is the safest and most effective first step.

For any plumbing emergency

Think of a burst pipe as a definite plumbing emergency. Water can cause significant damage in a very short amount of time, so there’s no time to waste. Your first call after shutting off the water should be to an emergency plumber. These pipes are often buried underground and require specific equipment and skills to access and repair correctly. A professional team can respond quickly to control the situation, prevent further damage, and get your home’s water system back to normal. Don’t hesitate—if you suspect a burst pipe, it’s time to contact a pro.

When the main water line is damaged

If the burst pipe is part of your main water line, the repair is even more complex. These lines are buried deep in your yard, making them impossible to see or access without the right know-how. Professional plumbers use advanced diagnostic tools to pinpoint the exact location of the break without having to dig up your entire lawn. They have the expertise to handle these critical drain and sewer lines safely, ensuring the repair meets local codes and regulations. This is a job that absolutely requires professional intervention.

If there’s significant water damage

A burst pipe doesn’t just waste water; it can wreak havoc on your property. Water pooling around your foundation can weaken your home’s structure, including walls and floors. It can also saturate electrical systems, creating a serious risk of fire or electric shock. In the aftermath, lingering moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, which poses health risks to your family. A professional plumber can not only fix the leak but also help you assess the extent of the water damage and recommend the next steps for cleanup and restoration.

When you have safety concerns

Your family’s safety is the top priority. If a burst pipe has caused extensive flooding, especially near electrical panels, outlets, or appliances, it may be best to leave the house until a professional has deemed it safe. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Calling a trusted plumbing company ensures that the problem is handled by trained experts who understand how to manage these hazards. Our team at JT Plumbing Heating & Air prioritizes a safe and effective repair process, giving you peace of mind.

To get help with insurance claim documentation

Dealing with a burst pipe is stressful enough without having to worry about your homeowner’s insurance claim. A professional plumber can be a huge help in this process. After completing the repair, they will provide you with a detailed invoice and a full report of the work done. This documentation is exactly what your insurance company will need to process your claim. Having clear, professional records of the damage and the repair can make the entire claims process smoother and help ensure you get the coverage you deserve.

Related Articles

• What to Do With a Burst Pipe: An Emergency Checklist
• Burst Pipe Repair: A 5-Step Emergency Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my homeowner’s insurance cover a burst outdoor pipe? This is one of the first questions homeowners ask, and the answer often depends on your specific policy. Generally, insurance policies cover the resulting water damage to your home and property, but they may not cover the cost of repairing the pipe itself. The best thing you can do is to call your insurance agent as soon as possible to clarify your coverage. Having detailed photos of the damage and a professional invoice from a licensed plumber will be essential for filing a successful claim.

How can I tell if it’s a sprinkler leak or a main water line break? This is a great question, as the signs can look similar. The easiest way to check is to turn off your sprinkler system at its control box. If the soggy patch in your yard starts to dry out, the problem is likely with your irrigation system. However, if the pooling water persists or you’re also experiencing low water pressure inside your house, the issue is almost certainly with your main water line, which requires immediate professional attention.

I’ve shut off the main water valve, but I still see water pooling. Did I do something wrong? You did the right thing! It’s completely normal to see water for a while even after the main is shut off. The ground is already saturated and will take time to drain and dry out. Plus, the water that was already in the pipes between the shut-off valve and the break will continue to drain out. As long as the flow isn’t actively gushing, you’ve successfully stopped the problem from getting worse while you wait for help.

Do you have to dig up my entire lawn to fix the pipe? That’s a common fear, but thankfully, it’s rarely the case anymore. Professional plumbers use specialized diagnostic equipment, like acoustic detectors and cameras, to pinpoint the exact location of the break underground. This allows us to perform a targeted repair with minimal digging, preserving as much of your landscaping as possible. Our goal is always to fix the problem efficiently without turning your yard into a major construction zone.

My house is older. Should I be proactive and replace my main water line? If you live in an older home and know your pipes are original, being proactive is a very smart move. An inspection by a professional plumber can determine the condition and material of your pipes. We can help you weigh the benefits of a planned replacement, which is far less stressful and often more cost-effective than dealing with an unexpected, catastrophic break in the middle of the night.