Pipe leaks can cause a lot of trouble, from water damage to mold growth. Taking care of any problems you find before they worsen is important.
The best way to prevent pipes from leaking is to understand their causes. Once you know what’s causing them, diagnosing and fixing the problem will be easier.
Frozen Pipes
If you live in an area with extreme cold, your pipes are at risk of freezing and bursting. They can also freeze in areas not protected by insulation, such as exterior walls or where water service enters your home through the foundation.
When pipes freeze, they expand and pressure plastic and metal pipework. This can stress weakened pipe joints and lead to leaks that cause water damage.
Burst pipes can result in significant water damage, so it’s important to act quickly if you see a frozen pipe. The best way to thaw a frozen pipe is by applying heat to the frozen section. You can use an electronic heating pad, a hair dryer, or towels soaked in hot water. Be sure to thaw the pipe slowly and listen for leaks.
Deterioration or Movement
One of the most common causes of pipe leaks is deterioration or movement. This can be a combination of natural processes like shrinkage and settling or a more man-made issue like water pressure or a poorly installed pipe.
The most significant challenge is usually pinpointing exactly which component is causing the problem. The best way to do this is to closely examine the pipes, where a plumber comes in handy.
The most obvious cause of a pipe leak is water seeping out due to poor installation or improperly connected pipes. Other potential culprits include physical damage, such as bumping or hanging a load of laundry or freezing temperatures in winter. The key is to be aware of the possibilities, and the best way to prevent any mishaps is to have a pipe leak repair Jacksonville, FL. By identifying the culprits above and avoiding them at all costs, you can avoid some costly and unpleasant surprises in the future.
Tree Roots
Tree roots are naturally drawn to the water, oxygen, and nutrients that flow inside your pipes. When a pipe leaks, the roots are more likely to grow close enough to absorb what they need and cause clogs, blockages, or damage.
In addition to water mains and sewer lines, trees can be attracted to leaking waste pipes like clay or cast iron. When this happens, they often find and invade a crack in the pipe.
This can create a major problem for homeowners, leading to backed-up sewage and other problems, including unpleasant odors and sinkholes on your property.
Luckily, there are ways to prevent tree roots from invading your pipes. For instance, you can bury wooden or metal barriers alongside your pipes at least six inches lower in the ground than the roots to keep them from breaking through.
Poor Installation
One of the most common causes of pipe leaks is poor installation. Incorrectly sealed joints and seams, overly tight plumbing glue, and too tight or loose anchors can prevent water from leaking through your pipes.
Even a small pipe leak can cause major damage to your home. The extra moisture can encourage mold growth, warped and stained walls, and flooding.
Fortunately, the good news is that most of these issues can be prevented.
One of the best ways to prevent pipe leaks is to keep your water pressure down. High pressure can hammer the pipes and cause them to break. Keeping your pressure under 60 PSI should keep your pipes safe from damage.