When a pipe bursts, it’s never quiet or convenient. You hear a pop, maybe a hiss, and before you know it, water is running somewhere it shouldn’t.
Around Salt Lake City, cold winters and older plumbing make that a familiar story. Scott Hale’s plumbing team handles broken pipe repairs across SLC every day, helping homeowners stop leaks, clean up fast, and keep things from getting worse.
We are open on weekends!
Schedule Online
What Causes Broken or Leaky Pipes
Pipes don’t usually fail without warning. It’s a mix of time, wear, and Salt Lake City’s temperature swings that eventually take their toll. In winter, freezing water expands inside the line until something gives. In older homes, corrosion and hard water eat away at fittings.
Here’s what we see most often:
- Pipes freezing and splitting in crawl spaces or exterior walls
- Rust or corrosion weakening copper and steel lines
- High water pressure straining joints and valves
- Tree roots or ground shifts pushing against buried lines
- Poor installation that leaves pipes rubbing against concrete or framing
Once a pipe cracks, water starts moving fast. Even a small split can leak hundreds of gallons in a day.
Signs of Water Leaks
Some leaks are easy to spot. Others stay hidden until the damage is done. The sooner you catch them, the easier they are to fix.
Keep an eye out for:
- Water stains or damp drywall
- Paint bubbling or floors warping
- A sudden spike in your water bill
- Musty smells that don’t go away
- Low water pressure
- Hearing water run when every faucet is off
If anything on that list sounds familiar, call for a water leak detection visit. We use listening gear, thermal cameras, and moisture meters to track down the problem without tearing up your walls.
What to Do When a Pipe Freezes
Salt Lake winters get cold enough to freeze pipes solid, especially in unheated areas like garages and basements. If you turn on a faucet and nothing comes out, the line is probably frozen.
Here’s what to do right away:
- Shut off the main water supply.
- Open a few faucets to release pressure.
- Warm the pipe slowly with a hair dryer or space heater.
- Never use an open flame or torch.
Once the pipe thaws, check for cracks or leaks. If it bursts, shut the water off again and call a plumber. We can replace the damaged section and insulate exposed areas to keep it from freezing next time.
Schedule Online
Our Pipe Repair Services
Scott Hale handles everything from a single pinhole leak to full repiping projects. Each job starts with a quick inspection so we know what failed and why. Then, we walk you through the repair plan, give you clear pricing, and get to work.
Our services include:
- Broken and frozen pipe repair
- Leak detection and moisture mapping
- Copper, PEX, and PVC pipe replacement
- Repipe specialist services for aging systems
- Foundation and slab leak repair
- Water line rerouting and installation
We use high-quality materials and follow Utah’s plumbing codes to make sure every repair lasts.
Emergency Plumbing Services
Burst pipes can’t wait. Water spreads fast, soaking drywall, floors, and insulation within minutes. That’s why our emergency plumbers are ready day or night across Salt Lake City.
When you call, we’ll send a technician who can shut off the water, stop the leak, and start the repair immediately. We also check nearby plumbing for stress cracks or weak spots so the same thing doesn’t happen again. If your home’s system is showing age, we’ll talk with you about repiping before the next freeze hits.
Schedule Pipe Repair with Scott Hale
If you’ve found a leak or if your pipes freeze every winter, call Scott Hale. Our team has spent decades helping SLC homeowners handle frozen and broken pipes. We know the local soil, the weather, and how Utah’s hard water affects plumbing.
We’ll find the leak, repair it quickly, and make sure your water lines are ready for the next cold snap.
FAQs
How can I tell if a pipe burst behind a wall?
Watch for damp drywall, a musty smell, or paint that’s peeling for no reason. If you hear water running and everything is off, there’s a good chance a pipe burst.
Can a frozen pipe thaw on its own?
Sometimes, but it might crack when it does. Always check for leaks after it thaws.
Do I need to replace all my pipes after one breaks?
Not always. We inspect the rest of your plumbing first. If corrosion or wear is widespread, a repipe may save money in the long run.
How fast can you respond to emergencies?
We offer same-day and 24-hour plumbing service across Salt Lake City.
How can I prevent pipes from freezing again?
Insulate exposed lines, disconnect outdoor hoses, and let faucets drip slightly during freezing nights.
Schedule Online
