Burst pipes are caused by water freezing inside the pipes and expanding, which puts tremendous pressure on the pipes and can cause them to crack and burst. Other underlying factors such as rust and corrosion can also contribute to pipe cracks and damage.
To prevent burst pipes, homeowners should take steps to insulate their pipes, such as wrapping them in foam insulation or using heat tape. Additionally, homeowners should check their pipes regularly for signs of corrosion or damage. To fix burst pipes, the first step is to turn off the water supply and the electricity if there is serious leakage. Then, homeowners should drain their faucets to keep them from refreezing, flush their toilets a few times, turn off their boiler or water heater, and leave their faucets and taps open to prevent pressure from building up. If the leak can be found, homeowners should try to repair it themselves or call a plumber to fix it.