ARTICLES

FIND LEAKING PIPES AND PREVENT THE DAMAGE

AUG 02, 2018

HOW TO IDENTIFY THE SOURCE OF THE LEAK

Leaks are more likely to occur in certain areas around your home. These easy leak detection tips can help save you money on damages and repairs. First, check under your sinks. Inspect the areas underneath for moisture, as this is a clear sign of a leak. If you discover a leak under a sink, first you should tighten the fittings and wipe away any moisture. This is generally a simple solution, however, if this does not fix the problem, contact your local professional to help with your plumbing leak detection.

If you discover you have a leaking faucet, it is most likely due to a worn rubber washer. The washer on a sink is generally located under the handle. These are relatively easy to replace, if you have the correct tools. You will need to first shut off the water under the sink or the main shutoff valve and remove the handle. The faucet handles are not shutoff valves. Check your local home center or hardware store for a simple recommendation on how to repair faucet leaks.

Condensation may be the form of a water leak. While condensation is normal, too much condensation can damage your walls, ceilings, floors, and woodworking. One way to deal with too much condensation is by insulating your pipes. This should either stop the condensation or reduce it to a level where it will no longer cause damage.

Sometimes the leak you are dealing with is coming from the supply valve or line. This will be clear when you turn it off and then back on again. If this is the problem, you will need to replace the leaking supply line.

You should also be sure to double check the source of the leak, as it may not always be obvious. Some leaks may start in one location and flow along a ledge or other channel for a distance before they drain down and create some visual damage. To detect the leak, just trace back any watermarks you see until you find the source.

TYPES OF DAMAGE FROM LEAKS

The damage a water leak can cause will most likely be wet, warped, or discoloration on your walls, floors, ceilings, and woodwork (such as cabinets under sinks). Some other common damages are rusting metal, rotting wood, and mold growing. If you have wood that absorbs water, it will expand and buckle. Wood flooring may need to be replaced if the damage is bad enough. If you attempt to make repairs, be sure to know the actual location of the leak, not just where the damage is.

If you cannot fix these common pipe leaks on your own, have a lot of water damage, or need a leak detection service, call Donley Service Center and the Comfort Heroes will come to the rescue!