Early Leak Detection Can Prevent a Costly Mess

Every homeowner dreads the possibility of a water leak in their home. It brings to mind images of a ruptured pipe flooding the house. But most water leaks are much less evident than this and can go undetected for weeks. Leaks of this nature can cause massive damage and necessitate significant renovations to the home. 

The last thing anyone wants during their romantic Valentine's Day celebration is to deal with the hassle and disruption of a leaky pipe, so it's best to root them out and fix them before they can ruin the party.

What Are the Signs of a Leak?

Leaks from exposed sections of pipe, such as those leading to appliances or under sinks, are the easiest to spot, as there will often be small puddles or water stains nearby. Bulging, sagging, or brownish-yellow stains on drywall usually indicate that water is leaking from a pipe inside the wall or ceiling - as with warped wood or bubbling paint and wallpaper. Mold growth or musty odors may indicate a hidden water leak as well.

Some leaks may come with a dripping or trickling noise, but this is not often the case. Another sign of a leak is an unexpected rise in the water bill. Even a small leak can waste upwards of one hundred gallons of water every month, so it's worth keeping an eye on.

Is a Leaky Pipe Dangerous?

A water leak can prove very hazardous to everyone in the home. Certain molds that develop due to a water leak can cause severe respiratory illness, especially with prolonged exposure. If water is coming into contact with certain components of a home's electrical system, such as wall outlets and light switch panels, there may be a risk of electrocution.

In extreme cases, a significant enough leak can cause floors and ceilings to collapse, either due to the weight of accumulating water or because the water has gradually rotted and weakened the support structure. In either case, the result can be disastrous.

How Do Professionals Track Down and Repair Leaks?

Professional plumbers and leak detection services have special tools for pinpointing leaks. First, they typically run a diagnostic pressure test on the plumbing system to determine if there is a leak. Once a leak is confirmed, they can narrow down its exact location using special acoustic listening devices or by feeding a fiber-optic cable into a pipe or through the walls. This latter method allows them to view hidden pipes.

Once the leak is found, a pro will shut off the water and drain the pipe completely. Depending on the leak's location, they may need to cut a hole in the wall or floor to access the pipe. Some leaks may only require a simple slip coupling repair, which involves removing the pipe's leaky portion and bridging the gap with a short coupling. A leaky joint may be replaced and re-soldered into place. 

Or, if the pipe has a pinhole leak due to corrosion, a professional will likely recommend replacing the pipes altogether, as a corroded pipe will only spring another leak in the future. Most DIY fixes for a leaky pipe are only temporary, so it's best to hire a pro if a leak is suspected.

About Vern Kummers Plumbing, Inc.

Green Bay, WI's Vern Kummers Plumbing has been serving their community with pride since 1976. Their honesty, superior workmanship, fast turnarounds, and personalized service are reflected in their countless awards, accolades, and 5-star reviews. They offer up-front competitive pricing, financing, and a 100% guarantee on every job. Call now for piping services!

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