Broken pipes and water leaks can be a big problem at home, which is why homeowners do a leak repair immediately. The water in supply pipes is under pressure, approximately 50 pounds per square inch, so if pipe leaks, the water sprays out with a considerable force. As an effect, the things surrounding the pipes get wet and if left unrepaired, they will be damaged in the long run.
Spotting a leaking pipe is somewhat easy to do even if it is hidden above the ceiling, under the sink or inside a wall. Once you have found it, the leak should be repaired right away to avoid further damage. Some homeowners will seek the service of a plumber to fix it while others will do a do-it-yourself (DIY) repair.
If you are doing the DIY repair, here are some things you need to know that may help you.
- Prepare for the Worst
If the leaks have been present for quite a while, you need to prepare for the worse scenario. The pipe may be deteriorated already when you find it and must be replaced entirely. Water can cause damage to the pipes when exposed for a long time. There may be rust build-up which causes the pipes to deteriorate or rot. In this case, you may try to salvage the pipes with the use of repair kits available. But the first thing to do is to diagnose the damage. If the job is beyond your capacity and requires a professional plumber, then don’t hesitate to do it. The time spent diagnosing the problem will save you money and time in the long run. Otherwise, if the damage is just small, then you can proceed with the DIY repair.
- Check Properly the Pipe
Once you have uncovered the pipes that leak, be sure to measure the outside diameter of the pipes and determine the type, such as copper, PVC, or steel. You may also take a photo of the pipes so that it will be easier to remember when you buy the needed supplies. Visit your local plumbing store and seek assistance in picking the right repair fittings. If you can’t remember the names of the fittings, show the photo you have taken to the sale person. Do you require pipe wrap? Or do you need repair putty? A good sales associate will help you find the exact supplies you need to repair the leaks. You’ll also get the instructions on how to use each supply.
- Don't Blow a Gasket Rather Replace It
Did you notice water dripping from the shower spout? The usual cause of this is either a defective washer or a defective seat within the body. It should be easy to repair as long as you have the valves to isolate the water in that area. Isolating the water in the shower area can help make the task easier. Once you have bought a gasket, disassemble the handles and take out the stem where the washer is situated, then replace the gasket, reinstall and observe it to determine if will still be a leak.
- Crowded Sink Leads to Leak
After repairing the leaks, you should perform things that can prevent the pipes from leaking again. Did you know that stuffed kitchen sink can easily spring a leak? When you add many bottles and other household products under the sink, they will be in contact with the pipes and it will difficult to detect if there are leaks. So, you may want to inspect the area more often to check for drips. You may also buy a corrosion protection to save your pipes from possible corrosion.
