Water stains on your ceiling. A musty smell in the bathroom. Weak pressure at the tap. These might seem like small issues, but they often point to a bigger problem in your plumbing system.
Pipes don’t break without a reason. Sometimes the cause is slow and gradual. Other times it’s sudden. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common reasons pipes fail, what to look out for, and how to reduce the risk of serious damage.
Signs a Pipe May Be Broken
Most cracked pipes are out of sight. But they usually give themselves away. Here are some of the most common early signs:
- Low water pressure
- Damp or wet spots on walls, ceilings or floors
- Foul odours near drains
- Discoloured tap water
- Mould or mildew that keeps returning
- A sudden increase in water usage or bills
The Main Causes of Broken Pipes
Tree Roots Entering the Line
Roots are always looking for moisture. If a pipe has even a hairline crack, roots can force their way in and continue growing until the pipe collapses or blocks up entirely. In cases where underground pipes are damaged by root intrusion, pipe relining offers a non-invasive way to restore flow without digging.
Prevention tip: Avoid planting trees near sewer or stormwater lines. If you’re unsure, book a pipe location scan before landscaping.
Soil Movement or Ground Pressure
Soil shifts due to weather, excavation, or changes in moisture levels. If your home is built on reactive clay or a sloped block, this movement can strain pipework underground until it cracks or sags.
Watch for: Recurring outdoor smells, bubbling drains or gurgling sounds.
Freezing Conditions Inside Pipes
Water expands when it freezes. If that happens inside a pipe, the pressure builds and cracks the pipe wall from within. This usually affects uninsulated outdoor plumbing in colder regions.
Tip: Use pipe insulation around exposed areas if you live in a frost-prone zone.
Excessive Water Pressure
Most plumbing systems are designed to handle 50 to 80 PSI. If the pressure goes beyond that, it puts stress on joints, bends and fittings. Over time, this weakens the pipe and increases the risk of bursts or leaks.
DIY check: Attach a pressure gauge to an outdoor tap. If it reads over 80 PSI, call a licensed plumber to assess.
Poor Quality Installation
Not all plumbing is done to standard. Bad joins, unsupported pipe runs, and incorrect gradients are all common issues in older or DIY plumbing work. These faults may take years to cause a failure, but when they do, the damage is often significant.
Solution: If you’re unsure about your pipework, a camera inspection can check for hidden flaws without digging.
Clogs and Backups
When a pipe is blocked, water pressure builds behind the obstruction. This added stress can push on the pipe walls, especially if the pipe is already weakened by age or ground pressure.
Avoid flushing: Wipes, paper towels, grease, food scraps or sanitary items. Even so-called flushable products can cause blockages over time.
How to Prevent Pipe Damage
Not all pipe damage can be prevented, but staying proactive makes a difference.
- Book regular inspections if you have older pipes
- Get any slow drains or smells investigated early
- Avoid heavy landscaping near known pipework
- Insulate exposed pipes in colder areas
- Monitor your water pressure and act if it spikes
When to Take Action
If you’ve noticed any of the signs mentioned earlier, it’s best not to wait. Broken pipes rarely stay minor. The longer you leave them, the more damage they can cause. Fixing the problem early saves time, money and stress.
Keogh Plumbing offers professional inspections using high-definition drain cameras. We can locate damage quickly and recommend practical solutions to keep your system safe and functioning.
Call 02 6430 7104 or book an appointment online today and stay ahead of the issue.