5 Signs Your Pipes Are About To Burst

When it comes to plumbing disasters, few things are more damaging—or more stressful—than a burst pipe. It can lead to thousands of dollars in water damage, mold growth, and major disruptions to your daily life. The good news? Burst pipes usually don’t happen out of nowhere. There are early warning signs that something’s wrong—and catching them in time can save you from a full-blown plumbing emergency.

At Cotton City Plumbing, we’ve helped homeowners and businesses across Lubbock, TX catch these problems early. Here are the top signs your pipes might be about to burst:

1. Unexplained Water Pressure Changes

If your water pressure suddenly drops or fluctuates, it could be a sign of a leak or a pipe under stress. Pipes with internal corrosion or small cracks often can’t maintain consistent pressure. Don’t ignore this—it’s usually one of the first signs something serious is brewing.

2. Visible Pipe Corrosion or Rust

Take a look under your sinks or in your basement. Do you see green, blue, or rust-colored buildup on any exposed pipes? That’s corrosion—and it weakens your pipes over time. Once a pipe starts rusting, it's only a matter of time before it fails under pressure.

3. Frequent Pipe Leaks

One small leak might seem manageable, but if you’re calling us every few months for a new drip or puddle, that’s a red flag. Multiple small leaks are often a sign that your piping system is aging and could be on the verge of a major failure.

4. Strange Noises in the Walls

Do you hear banging, clanging, or knocking sounds when you turn on your water? This could be caused by something called “water hammer”—a pressure surge that happens when water abruptly stops or changes direction. Over time, this stress can cause joints and fittings to crack or burst.

5. Unusually High Water Bills

If your water bill suddenly jumps and your usage hasn’t changed, you may have a hidden leak. Even small leaks from cracked pipes behind walls or underground can waste thousands of gallons of water per month—and they often go unnoticed until serious damage occurs.

Don’t Wait for a Plumbing Emergency

If you’ve noticed any of these signs, now’s the time to act. At Cotton City Plumbing, we offer comprehensive pipe inspections and preventative maintenance services to keep your home or business safe and dry.

Call us today at (806) 441-4110 or schedule a service online at cottoncityplumbing.com.