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There’s no way around it—a burst pipe is often a homeowner’s worst nightmare, and the situation can range from semi-serious to dire. If you don’t catch the leak, it can lead to thousands of dollars worth of water damage.

At best, you’ll notice a burst pipe quickly, turn off your water supply, and use a wet vacuum to clean up minor flooding. A plumber can repair the pipe, and you won’t be left with a major bill. At worst, severe water damage can collapse floors, ceilings, walls, and foundations, sometimes leading to major repairs and renovations.

The type of sealant you use on a leaking pipe will depend on the pipe material and the cause of the leak. PVC P-traps should avoid petroleum-based sealants, which can degrade the plastic and worsen the leak. Pipe sealant is specifically designed for use on pipes, but remember—if your P-trap has a crack–it’s best to replace the pipe to avoid future leaks.

You can prevent pipes from bursting by taking several preventive measures. For example:

• Keep your pipes from freezing when temperatures drop by setting your thermostat to 55 degrees or higher.

• Open under-sink cabinets to allow warm air to flow around the pipes. 

• Let faucets drip to keep water moving.

• Add insulation to crawl spaces or pipes to keep them warm.

If your bathtub won’t drain, it’s usually due to a clog. You can try to remove any visible debris by hand. For debris stuck in the trap below the drain, a drain snake is your best bet. Keep in mind that chemical drain cleaners can be very effective for hair clogs, but they’re corrosive and can damage your pipes. Use with caution.