Quick Actions to Protect Your Home in Dallas or Houston

A burst pipe is one of the most stressful home emergencies, especially in Texas where extreme temperature fluctuations can catch homeowners off guard. Whether it’s caused by unexpected freezes in winter or foundation shifts during hot summers, a burst pipe can cause significant water damage, mold growth, and costly repairs. However, staying calm and acting quickly can minimize the impact. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the situation effectively.
Signs of Potential Pipe Problems
- Decrease in water pressure
- Unusual water sounds
- Damp drywall or baseboards
- Higher than normal water bills
- Foundation cracks or shifting
- Slab moisture concerns:
- Warm spots on floor
- Unexplained wet areas
- Baseboards showing moisture
What to do when you’ve identified a burst pipe
Turn Off the Water Supply
The first and most critical step is to stop the water flow.
- Locate the main water shut-off valve for your home. In Texas homes, it’s typically located:
- In single-family homes: Near the front of the house, often in a covered box at ground level
- In newer homes: In the garage or utility room
- In slab foundation homes: Near the water heater or under the kitchen sink
- Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply
- For Houston residents: Contact 311 for emergency assistance
- For Dallas residents: Contact 311 or Dallas Water Utilities at (214) 670-5111
Switch Off Electricity in Affected Areas
In Texas homes with slab foundations, this step is particularly crucial as water can travel extensively through the foundation before becoming visible. Switching off electricity in affected areas prevents electrical hazards and protects your home’s electrical system.
- In homes with slab foundations:
- Water can travel extensively before becoming visible
- Check for water seepage around baseboards
- Pay special attention to areas near the slab
Safety First: Water and Electricity Don’t Mix
- Locate your electrical panel
- Switch off power to all water-affected areas
- If water is near electrical outlets or appliances:
- Stay clear of standing water
- Contact your electricity provider if needed:
- Houston: CenterPoint Energy (713-207-2222)
- Dallas: Oncor (888-313-4747)
Drain the System
Once the water is shut off, drain your pipes to prevent further leaks:
- Open cold taps throughout your home, starting from the top floor
- Turn off your water heater and open hot water taps
- For homes with pool equipment or irrigation systems: Don’t forget to drain exterior lines
- In multi-story homes: Start with the highest floor to ensure complete drainage

Contain the Water Damage
Texas’s unique climate and construction methods require special attention during water damage containment. High humidity levels and warm temperatures can accelerate mold growth, making quick action essential.
Act quickly to minimize water damage:
- Use buckets, towels, or mops to collect standing water
- Place tarps or buckets under the burst pipe
- Move furniture, rugs, and valuables away from affected areas
- For slab foundations: Look for water seepage around baseboards
- Document everything for insurance – take photos and videos
- Pay special attention to hardwood floors, which can warp quickly in Texas humidity
Temporarily Patch the Pipe
If you’re waiting for a plumber or water damage restoration company, consider these temporary solutions:
- Use plumber’s tape or a pipe repair clamp for small leaks
- Wrap the pipe with a rubber patch and secure with hose clamps
- For exterior pipes: Add temporary insulation during freeze warnings
- Remember: These are temporary fixes only – professional repair is essential
Professional Response Steps
Contact Insurance and Restoration Experts
- Contact CWF Restoration for immediate response
- Call your insurance provider to report the damage
- Our team provides:
- Free inspection and estimate
- Direct insurance billing
- Complete restoration services
- Foundation expertise for slab-built homes
- 24/7 emergency response
Professional Water Extraction and Drying
Our water damage restoration process includes:
- Professional-grade water extraction
- Industrial dehumidification
- Advanced moisture monitoring:
- Specific to Texas’s high humidity levels
- Material specific remote moisture tracking
- Drying progress assessment
- Structural drying
- Mold prevention measures
Inspect and Prevent Future Bursts
Texas weather extremes make prevention crucial:
- Identify vulnerable pipes:
- Exterior walls
- Attic spaces
- Garage areas
- Pool equipment rooms
- Irrigation system components
- Preventive measures:
- Insulate exposed pipes
- Allow faucets to drip during freeze warnings
- Maintain HVAC systems to prevent indoor temperature extremes
- Consider smart water leak detectors
- Monitor foundation moisture levels to prevent shifting
Contact CWF Restoration
Don’t let a burst pipe cause extensive damage to your home. Contact CWF Restoration at 1-800-818-7035 for immediate assistance with your water emergency.
With locations in both Houston and Dallas, CWF Restoration provides 24/7 emergency response for water damage:
- Free inspection and estimate
- Direct insurance billing
- IICRC certified technicians
- Complete restoration services
- Local expertise in Texas construction methods
Additional Texas Resources
- Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (800-845-6584):
- Verify plumber licenses
- File complaints about plumbing work
- Get information about Texas plumbing regulations
- Find certified plumbers experienced with slab foundations
- Texas Department of Insurance (800-578-4677):
- Understand coverage specific to foundation-related issues
- File insurance complaints
- Learn about Texas policyholder rights
- Get guidance on water damage claims
- Emergency Management:
- Houston (713-884-4500): Updates on water safety, boil notices, and emergency services
- Dallas (214-670-4333): Emergency water services, quality alerts, and city assistance