Water leaks are common in pipes, spouts, faucets, and other water fixtures. These parts are all subject to decay, cracks, and damage. Natural or man-made occurrences can also cause water leaks. While many issues can be fixed on your own, it’s wise to call a plumber to get a professional diagnosis of your leak and make sure it gets fixed properly.
What Areas Commonly Leak?
Plumbing is an integral part of buildings and homes, and leaks are likely to occur over time. There are many common water leaks that aplumber will help with.
Toilet leaks are a common occurrence due to pipe issues or clogs. Sink leaks are another common type of leak, ranging from a slow drip to a steady flow of water. Showers, water heaters, pipes, and appliances may also have leaks tied to plumbing.
What Are Common Causes of Water Leaks?
There are many events or circumstances that will cause water to leak from pipes, toilets, faucets, and more. These range from extreme circumstances to easy-to-fix problems. Some water leaks may require a major repair, so it’s worthwhile to consult a professional for most leaks. Here are a few causes of water leaks:
Pipe Cracks
Pipes can become weaker due to frequent use. They experience temperature and pressure fluctuations, along with regular wear and tear. This causes pipes to crack. It doesn’t always take a specific event to crack a weakened pipe. Corrosion may happen in pipes and is a chemical reaction between the metal and what it’s exposed to. Water quality and pH levels can contribute to corrosion.
Foreign Objects
It is common for objects to fall down a drain or be flushed down a toilet. Some objects may flow through the pipes with ease. Others will become obstructed and either cause the water flow to stop or a leak to occur. This can happen immediately with larger objects, or it may take time as other build-up and debris stick to the inside of your pipes.
Cold Temperatures
In areas that experience cold temperatures, it is easy for pipes to freeze as temperatures drop. This is especially common overnight when temperatures and water usage tend to be the lowest. When the pipes freeze, they are left in a fragile state, and they can easily break when regular water flow resumes. It is often recommended to leave the water at a slow drip until temperatures warm up and to insulate plumbing properly.
Aging Pipes
As pipes age, they naturally wear out, and the walls and pipe fittings can degrade. This causes them to crack or break. You may see evidence of these types of leaks in walls or ceilings, especially in homes with older plumbing systems.
Poor Installation
There are cases where pipes may have been installed incorrectly, leading them to leak more easily. Using the wrong type of materials, rather than durable metals like copper, may also contribute to faster wear and tear or improper functioning. Getting help from a plumbing professional will allow you to fix installation issues quickly.
Physical Movement
Some occurrences will cause pipes to move, disrupting their physical placement. The unsteadiness causes pipes to break or fixtures to loosen. Some things that cause a physical shift are natural disasters like earthquakes or a house naturally settling.
How Do I Fix a Leak on My Own?
When fixing a leak on your own, the first step is to understand exactly where the leak is coming from. Turn off the water supply to see if it is something that you’re able to fix yourself. Some leaks can be fixed with plumber’s tape for a temporary hold until a plumber can come. You may also be able to fix certain issues with a simple part replacement or by tightening the hardware.
Know When To Call a Professional Plumber
When you’re unsure where a leak is coming from or if there is a significant amount of water leaking, it’s time to call a plumber. Plumbers can also help fix simple plumbing issues. Have a professional take care of leaks and plumbing concerns so the job is done correctly. If you’re experiencing a leak, call your local plumber to fix the issue and keep your home safe from water damage.
