One of the most water damage issues homeowners face is leaky pipes. Water leaks are unpredictable and can wreak havoc on the entire household if left unattended.
Listed below are a few common causes of leaky pipes.
Water leaks are perhaps one of the most complex issues homeowners face. Since pipework isn’t visible, it is difficult to pinpoint the damage before it has worsened beyond repair. If a leak is left unattended, wastewater accumulates, producing foul smells and even inorganic mold growth in your home. While a leak may not always be apparent, being educated about the common causes of leaky pipes will help you recognize the issue early on. You can then contact restoration services to fix the problem before it becomes a full-fledged disaster.
Clogged Pipes:
Clogs don’t cause a leak immediately. However, with time if the blockage keeps building up, it can lead to possible structural damage. The damage worsens rapidly if the clog contains corrosive chemicals from household substances. Eventually, the blockage causes pipes to overflow and even burst. To prevent this, you can install hair traps in your pipeline and closely monitor what you let into your gutters.
Broken Seals:
It is common among plumbers to put seals around all water connectors when installing new appliances. Most contractors use a strong rubber sealant around these connections to keep all ends watertight. As the seal ages, it weakens and degrades, eventually breaking over time. If you’ve been noticing puddles of water around your appliances, it’s time to call the restoration services for help.
Corrosion:
Another common issue among ageing pipes is degeneration. Rust and other forms of corrosion start eating at the pipes, gradually degrading the metal and creating small holes for water to leak through. Different material pipes have different rates of corrosion. While pipes made of pure brass can last up to 70 years, others made of galvanized steel can barely make it to 20 years. If you reside in an old property and have noticed discolouration and warping around your pipes, it’s probably time for an upgrade.
High water Pressure:
It is common knowledge that the harder the water hits the pipe, the greater the chances of damage and leaks. While high water pressure is truly a blessing in the shower, pipes and faucets burst if they cannot handle the extreme pressures. Remember that most pipes can only withstand water pressure of 60 psi. If you notice leaking here and there, don’t wait for the situation to worsen and contact restoration services immediately. Let them have a look at the pipework and make the necessary adjustments.
Incorrect Pipe Layout:
Professionals must examine the pipe layout of your household because many cases of severe leaks occur due to improper pipework. Plumbing systems require water to flow against gravity. Installing pipes, connectors and backflow devices properly is vital as the wrong layout causes unnecessary pressure on the pipes. This speeds up the process of deterioration and causes pipes to burst eventually.
As a homeowner, it is necessary to ensure timely maintenance of your plumbing system to avoid major disasters. Keep an eye on how your plumbing performs. If you notice any indicators mentioned above, reach out to professionals. Our experts at STOP restoration of Port St. Lucie are available 24/7 to assist you in emergencies. You can trust our team of trained professionals to take care of any water damage in your household.
