Unrecognized Plumbing Leaks

Water damage caused by unrecognized leaks can be one of the most devastating problems for homeowners. They tend to go undetected and unchecked for long periods of time, wreaking havoc on furnishings and causing expensive home repairs.

Leaks are most common at connections to appliances, shut-off valves and toilets. This article will outline five of the most common plumbing leaks that you may experience.

Old Pipes 

Pipes that are older can start to leak due to cracks and holes that develop over time. These leaks can lead to costly damage if left unchecked and often occur inside walls, under floors, or at joints in the plumbing system. This can result in mold growth, rotting and weakening of household structures, water stains on the ceilings and walls, high water bills, and low water pressure.

If your pipes are old, it is a good idea to upgrade them as soon as possible. Newer variations of residential piping offer improved longevity and increased efficiency over older models.

In addition, old corroded pipes can leak and allow rust and other minerals into the house’s drinking water. This can cause discoloration in your water and create a strange odor. In some cases, this problem can even cause your septic system to overflow, which is very dangerous for your health and the environment.

Seals Breaking 

As a pipe ages, the seals around it can break, leading to leakage. When this happens, it’s important to call a plumber right away because leaking water can cause damage throughout the home and may require extensive repairs.

Several factors can lead to mechanical seal failure, including improper installation, deterioration of the sealing material, contamination and misalignment. A visual inspection of the seals is recommended to detect potential problems.

One tell-tale sign of a broken seal is grooved wear that typically appears on the mating seal face in a circular 360-degree pattern. Grooving is caused by poor lubrication of the seal, excessive pressure, or abrasive particles in the softer primary ring material.

Another possible indicator of a broken seal is soft spots in the drywall or ceiling. This is the result of the leaking water damaging the drywall or plaster and needs to be repaired by a plumber. Fortunately, catching these signs early will save homeowners money and damage in the long run.

Tree Roots 

Tree roots can wreak havoc on both water and sewer pipes. They are able to do this because they explore their soil environment in search of oxygen and nutrients. They can penetrate the tiniest cracks and openings in your water and sewer lines. Once

inside, they continue to grow and cause a blockage preventing water, waste, and debris from flowing through the pipe.

One of the first signs of this problem is a slow draining sink or toilet. This may also be accompanied by a gurgling sound when the toilet is flushed.

It’s important to enlist the services of a plumber as soon as possible in order to avoid waste back-up into your home. Another sign is a drop in your home’s water pressure, which could be caused by a severe root blockage. This can also be caused by a clogged sink that needs professional drain cleaning. The preferred piping material for homes nowadays is PVC, which has a higher ability to withstand pressure from expanding tree roots.

Bad Workmanship 

Almost all water supply pipes are tucked away behind walls, ceilings and floors, making it hard to find and repair leaks. But that doesn’t mean they can’t cause significant damage. Left unchecked, a pipe leak can cause mold growth and structural damage to homes and businesses. It can also lead to huge water wastage that drives up utility bills.

Many plumbing leaks are the result of bad workmanship or shoddy building materials. If you’re experiencing a new home or business construction, make sure the contractor you hire has experience working with plumbing. A plumber in Canberra can help you with all your plumbing needs.

Look out for telltale signs of leaks like dripping noises, higher water bills and discolored spots on walls and ceilings. If you notice these problems, shut off your water main and call a plumber. The sooner you act, the better. Small leaks can quickly turn into major ones that cost more money to fix. You don’t want to have to pay for expensive repairs because you ignored the warning signs.