Despite operating on simple principles, plumbing is subject to all kinds of problems. One of them is leaking pipes. Though this problem seems inevitable, knowing what happens when a pipe leaks and what you can do about it will give you the power to prevent this issue and protect your home from costly damage.
Leaking Pipes Can Hurt Your Floors and Walls
A leaky pipe above or below your floorboards can damage them. Leaks behind your drywall can also cause damage to the drywall and the timbers that hold up your ceiling. These structures can become discolored, warped or buckled. Wood dampened by a leak invites in termites and other wood-gnawing pests. Indeed, if the leaks aren’t fixed, your drywall can rot, and your floors or ceilings can cave in, sometimes with no warning.
Leaks Cause Mold and Mildew
Even tiny leaks can set up wet areas where mold and mildew can proliferate. Some kinds of these fungi can cause health problems. Some molds affect the respiratory system of even healthy people. They can be dangerous for babies, the elderly and people with existing illnesses.
Leaks Raise Your Water and Energy Bills
If you see a spike in your bill from the municipal waterworks, you can suspect a leak somewhere in your pipes. If you have a private well, and your energy bill goes up suddenly and inexplicably, you should also suspect a leak. Not only are leaks expensive, but they also stress your well pump and shorten its lifespan.
Leaks Waste Water
Leaks waste water — sometimes as much as thousands of gallons a year. This is a problem everywhere, but it can be especially bad in a climate where water conservation is a must.
What You Can Do to Prevent Leaks
The easiest way to prevent leaks is to have your plumbing system checked every year or so by a professional plumber. Here are more things you can do.
- Make sure your water pressure is not too high. Water pressure that’s too high can stress your pipes and cause leaks.
- Plant your trees in the right area. The roots of trees that are planted too close to underground pipes can use the tiniest cracks to find water and nutrients. Eventually, this can cause the pipe to burst.
- Keep your drains clear. Do not throw oils or fats down the drain, and flush only bodily wastes and toilet paper down the toilet.
- Don’t use harsh cleansers. These may eliminate clogs fast, but they can also cause tiny holes in pipes that widen over time.
Leaks are not just expensive and inconvenient. They can also damage your home and cause situations that can affect your health. Don’t wait until you have a serious problem. If you need leak repair, call our professional plumbers at Big Sky Plumbing & Heating in Helena, MT.