Fixing the water pipe outside is a fairly simple task that you can handle on your own and on a budget. Now, there are various methods to do so but the quickest and simplest method of doing so is to use a so-called C-clamp. For this to work, you need to handle two fairly simple preparatory tasks and handle several simple materials and tools. Here’s how you can get this done.

1. Turn off the water

The first thing you need to do in order to fix a broken water pipe is to turn off the water. For this, you need to find either the valve controlling the flow of water to that particular area or the main water valve. Either way, shutting off the main water valve is a simpler solution and a safer choice. Still, for this to work, you have to figure out where the valve in question actually is. Fortunately, even if you don’t know its location, finding the main water shutoff valve is a fairly simple task.

2. Drain the pipe

Just because the valve is off, this doesn’t mean that the pipe is not completely empty. So, turn on the tap or fixture that’s connected to the problem and wait until all the water comes out. This won’t take long and it can make your job so much easier. The key lies in knowing your home’s plumbing or just visually tracking the pipe through your property.

3. Place a piece of rubber over the area

Once the water is off, you need to seal the area of the leak. One way to do so is to place a piece of rubber over the area where the pipe is leaking. Keep in mind that these rubber pieces are quite inexpensive and you can even use an item like an old heater hose. This is something that you can find even on a junkyard and, due to the importance of this piece in the overall repair, it’s definitely worth your while to have one ready.

4. Put some pressure on the rubber

The next thing you need to do is fixate the piece of rubber and the simplest way to do so is to pressurize the rubber over the area with a suitable item. In this particular scenario, even a block of wood can be of use. Now, the problem with this lies in the balance, seeing as how the round pipe won’t allow you to put pressure all along the pipe. Instead, you’ll be able to pressure a narrow area, which, if done properly, should be enough.

5. Get a C-clamp

The most efficient way to handle this situation is to install a C-clamp around the damaged area. Ideally, you wouldn’t remove anything described above but would rather find a C-clamp that’s wide enough to surround the pipe, the gasket material and the block of wood in question. Ideally, you would look for the best plumbing services in your area but it’s quite reassuring to know that you can do a lot even on your own. Still, like with any other DIY project the results are never guaranteed.

In conclusion

The very last thing you need to take into consideration is the fact that fixing a broken water pipe doesn’t require too much plumbing experience, sophisticated tools or expensive materials. All you need is a rubber piece, a block of wood, a C-clamp and some tape. The majority of these items are something that every household already possesses, which means that you won’t have to go out of the way in order to prepare your inventory. Still, it’s always easier and more reliable to look for professional help.