Leaking Pipes
What to Do If You Have One
Introduction
Leaking pipes are a major source of damage in homes and office buildings. Because of their ability to harm plumbing, walls, floors and ceilings, hidden pipe leaks must be located and repaired as soon after detection as possible. Often, homeowners do not know about leaks until it is too late; however, with a little preventative maintenance and knowledge, they can find leaking pipes before a major repair job is needed.
Damages Caused by Leaking Pipes
When water leaks start, homeowners typically see an increase in their water bills. But leaking pipes create even greater issues such as weak foundations, spongy walls, and dreaded mildew and mold. It is the latter mold that has the potential to create health problems for those living or working in the building.
Detecting Water Leaks
Most water leaks occur in the bathroom, laundry or kitchen. Regular inspection of faucets, showers, toilets and pipes under sinks helps homeowners detect a small leak before it turns into a bigger one. Check wall areas around sinks and tubs. If the wall has a spongy feel to it, then it probably means there is broken piping. Tile grout is another indicator of potential water leaking. If there is mold or mildew on the grout, further inspection is needed.
What to Do When Leak is Found
When there is a leak, homeowners have two options: try to fix it themselves or call in a professional plumber. If a leak is caused by a broken faucet handle or broken toilet chain, individuals may feel comfortable replacing these fixtures with repair parts on their own. If larger water leaking is detected, such as spongy walls or weak flooring, a plumber is a must. Plumbing companies offer professional expertise in leak detection so that every leak is isolated and proper repair recommended.
When in doubt, homeowners should rely on professional plumbers for assistance. Without the proper skill or knowledge to repair leaking pipes, homeowners could make a minor problem worse.
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