Fast Burst Pipe & Leak Repair in County Sligo

Few plumbing problems cause as much immediate damage as a burst pipe. One moment everything is fine; the next, water is streaming through the ceiling, pooling on the floor, or seeping through a wall. In the time it takes to find the stopcock, a burst pipe can cause hundreds or even thousands of euro worth of damage to flooring, plasterwork, electrics, and personal belongings. For homeowners across County Sligo, where cold Atlantic winters push temperatures well below freezing, burst pipes are an all-too-common reality.

Our burst pipe and leak repair service is designed to stop the damage fast and carry out a proper, lasting repair. We respond to emergency calls within 60 minutes in Sligo Town and the surrounding areas, and our engineers carry the tools and parts needed to resolve most burst pipe situations on the first visit.

What Causes Pipes to Burst in Sligo?

Understanding why pipes burst can help you take preventive action, but it also explains why this issue is so prevalent in the west of Ireland:

• Freezing temperatures - When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands and creates enormous pressure. This is the most common cause of burst pipes in Sligo, particularly in exposed attic spaces, unheated outbuildings, and external pipework. Homes in elevated areas around Knocknarea, the hills above Strandhill, and rural parts of North Sligo are especially vulnerable.
• Corrosion and age - Older copper pipes in many Sligo homes gradually corrode over decades, weakening the pipe walls until they eventually fail. Pre-1970s properties may also have lead or galvanised steel pipes that are particularly prone to deterioration.
• Water pressure surges - Sudden changes in mains water pressure can stress weakened pipes and joints, causing them to split.
• Physical damage - Accidental damage during building work, loft conversions, or even heavy objects being placed against pipes in the attic.

Our Burst Pipe Repair Process

When you call us with a burst pipe, the first thing we do is talk you through isolating the water supply over the phone. Turning off the stopcock and draining the system can dramatically reduce the amount of water damage while our engineer is on the way.

Once on site, our plumber will assess the situation and use professional leak detection equipment to pinpoint the exact source of the problem. This is particularly important for hidden leaks - water can travel a considerable distance along a pipe or joist before it becomes visible, so the wet patch on your ceiling may not be directly below the actual leak. Our acoustic listening devices and thermal imaging cameras allow us to locate the precise point of failure without tearing out large sections of wall or floor.

With the leak located, we carry out a permanent repair. Depending on the extent of the damage, this may involve:

• Cutting out the damaged section and fitting new copper pipe with proper compression or solder fittings
• Replacing a corroded joint or elbow
• Re-routing a section of pipe away from a vulnerable location
• Replacing an entire pipe run if the condition is poor throughout

We do not use temporary clamps or tape as a long-term solution. Every repair is designed to last.

When to Call a Professional

Some leaks develop gradually and can be hard to spot until they become a serious problem. Watch out for these warning signs in your Sligo home:

• Damp patches appearing on walls or ceilings with no obvious cause
• A musty smell in rooms, cupboards, or under floors
• Unexplained increases in your water bill or meter readings
• Low water pressure at taps or showers that was not there before
• Sounds of running water when all taps and appliances are off
• Mould growth in unusual places, particularly along skirting boards or in corners

If you notice any of these signs, do not ignore them. A small hidden leak left unaddressed can cause structural damage, mould growth, and increasingly expensive repairs over time. It is far better to have it investigated early.

Preventing Burst Pipes in Sligo

Living on the Atlantic coast, Sligo homeowners face particular challenges with frozen pipes during winter. Our comprehensive guide on how to winterise your plumbing in Ireland provides detailed prevention advice. Here are some practical steps you can take:

• Insulate exposed pipes in the attic, garage, and any unheated spaces. This is the single most effective preventive measure.
• Know where your stopcock is and make sure it turns freely. In an emergency, seconds matter.
• Keep your heating on a low setting during cold spells, even if you are away from home. A thermostat set to 12-15 degrees Celsius can prevent pipes from freezing.
• Open the attic hatch during extreme cold to allow some warm air from the house to reach the attic space.
• Fix dripping taps and running toilets promptly - these can accelerate pipe wear and increase the risk of failure.

If you are heading away for a winter break, consider asking a neighbour to check on your property or have us carry out a pre-winter pipe inspection to identify any vulnerable sections.

Call Us for Fast Burst Pipe Repair

A burst pipe will not stop leaking on its own, and the damage compounds with every passing minute. Whether it is the middle of the night or a Sunday afternoon, call us on 087 341 0745 and we will have a qualified, fully equipped plumber at your Sligo property as quickly as possible. No hidden fees, no obligation - just fast, professional pipe repair when you need it most.