Repairing Damaged Water Pipes without the Need for Demolition

4/15/2022 (Permalink)

Pipes that are leaking are one of the most common problems that homeowners today face. Repairing leaking pipes can be costly and cause a big headache. Preparing for these problems is key to preventing large water damage.

Poor installation practices are one of the most common causes of leaks in plumbing systems. Kitchen and bathroom faucets are sometimes installed with too tight of a grip, creating leaks. Red stains in your toilet can indicate rust or iron, which could mean a clog in your pipes.

Cracks are another cause of water leaks. Small cracks can be something to not worry about, but larger cracks should be cause for concern and should be inspected by a professional. Small cracks can be fixed with epoxy or paint typically. Larger cracks may need cement caulk or replacement in order to be fixed. 

When pipes become blocked, water damage is likely to occur. A quality water filtration system can prevent blocks in pipes. If a pipe does become blocked, many hardware stores carry inexpensive drain snakes or rent large augers in order to remedy the issue yourself.

Many leaks are found around fixtures and fittings such as faucets, tubs, showers, toilets, and water heaters. It is often difficult to find these leaks as many of them are behind walls and tile and require demolition to find the true leak source.

Slab leaks are also common and consist of damaged water pipes beneath a layer of soil on the exterior of your foundation. If a slab leak appears anywhere near a foundation, it is important to have it repaired as soon as possible. If a damaged water pipe is visible, or you feel there may be more than one leak, contact a licensed plumbing service as soon as possible to have the leak repaired.