Dealing with Attic Water Damage from Pipe Ruptures

When a pipe bursts in the attic, it’s a mess—fast. You’re dealing with soaked insulation, damaged drywall, potential mold, and maybe even water running down through ceilings and walls into the rest of your home.

Here’s what you need to know to handle attic water damage the right way.

Step 1: Shut Off the Water and Make the Area Safe

Turn off your main water supply immediately. If water’s still leaking, shut off electricity to the attic or upper floors to avoid shock hazards. If the ceiling is sagging, stay clear—it might collapse.

Step 2: Call a Professional (Fast)

This isn’t the kind of job you DIY. Attic water damage spreads fast and often hides in insulation, rafters, and behind walls. At Total Home Water Restoration, we’ve seen how pipe ruptures can lead to mold growth within 24 to 48 hours if not handled right.

We use moisture meters, thermal cameras, and proven IICRC-certified methodsto inspect and dry everything thoroughly.

Step 3: Remove Wet Materials

That means:

• Pulling out wet insulation (especially fiberglass or cellulose)

• Removing damaged drywall and ceiling panels

• Pulling up flooring below if water made it through

Don’t skip this. Leaving wet materials in place is a fast track to mold and rot.

Step 4: Dry the Structure Completely

We use high-powered air movers and dehumidifiers designed for structural drying. In many attics, the airflow is poor, so specialized drying setups are needed to pull moisture out of wood framing and sheathing.

The IICRC S500 guidelines recommend detailed moisture mapping and ongoing monitoring until everything hits target dryness levels.

Step 5: Prevent Mold

After drying, we treat affected areas with antimicrobial solutions to stop mold spores from spreading. If mold has already started (especially in winter when warm air from below hits cold attic surfaces), we handle full remediation following IICRC S520 standards.

Step 6: Repair and Rebuild

Once everything’s clean and dry:

• Replace insulation per current R-value and ventilation code

• Reinstall drywall or ceiling panels

• Seal and repaint

• Check your roof and vents for any additional leaks

If the pipe that burst wasn’t properly insulated or supported, now’s the time to upgrade it.

How to Avoid This in the Future

Attic pipes freeze and burst when:

• Insulation is missing or compressed

• Pipes are too close to roof edges or vents

• Attic ventilation pulls cold air around pipes in winter

Prevent future issues by:

• Wrapping pipes with foam or heat tape

• Air-sealing attic penetrations (like light fixtures)

• Checking attic insulation and ventilation balance

FAQ: Attic Pipe Bursts

How long before mold starts after an attic pipe burst?
Mold can begin within 24 to 48 hours if moisture isn’t removed completely.

Do I need to remove attic insulation after water damage?
Yes. Wet insulation loses its R-value and traps moisture. It must be replaced.

Should I call my insurance?
Absolutely. Most policies cover burst pipe damage. Take photos, document everything, and call your adjuster as soon as possible.

Need help fast? Call Total Home Water Restoration at 380-246-1837. We’re based in Grove City and serve all nearby areas—including Columbus, Hilliard, Westerville, and Dublin.

From disaster to done right. We fix it like it’s our own home.