DIY: Repairing a Burst Copper Pipe

A burst copper pipe is usually caused by frozen pipes. You may not even notice you have a problem until the pipe starts to defrost and the water comes pouring out. First, don't panic and turn off the nearest water shut-off valve to the leak. If necessary, you can turn off the water at the main supply for the house. Then proceed to gather your tools and repair the burst copper pipe.

Step 1: Make sure that the water supply has been cut off from the burst pipe. Mop up the area to avoid water damage before proceeding.

Step 2: Cut away the section of burst copper pipe with a tubing cutter. Check the entire length of pipe to ensure that you have cut away all of the damaged pieces.

Step 3: Cut a new piece of copper pipe that is the same length and diameter as the piece of copper pipe you have just removed.

Step 4: Clean the ends of the copper pipe you have just cut, and the ends of the copper plumbing with a fine grit sandpaper. Spend some time on this step, making sure to remove any surface film before proceeding.

Step 5: Use a fitting brush to take care of any obstructions in the sections of pipes. Also, use the sandpaper to remove any burrs from the cut.

Step 6: Apply flux with a brush to the ends of all of the copper pipes and the interiors of two copper couplings to connect the pipes.

Step 7: Fit the new pieces of copper pipe, couplings, and the existing plumbing together.

Step 8: Heat one side of the first coupling with a propane torch. Apply solder to the seam between the coupling and the pipe. Slowly move the solder until the entire seam has been covered with the melting metal.

Step 9: Repeat step 8 until all of the couplings have been connected to the copper pipes.

Step 10: Open the water shut off valve slowly and check for leaks. If you find a leak, you must re-solder the connection.