No one wants to hear the dripping sound of a leaking faucet. A leaking faucet should be an issue of concern, as it could mean your plumbing pipes have problems. Leaks cause unending issues to your home, but still, some homeowners may ignore small leaks until they become severe.
Such leaks waste large amounts of water, damage the structure of your home, and can result in mold and mildew formation. The average water leakage in U.S homes can trigger losses of about 10,000 gallons of water annually. About 10 percent of households experience leaks that can lead to the wastage of about 90 gallons of water per day.
Sometimes it could be a bit difficult to determine the cause of a leak because pipes run beneath. Understanding the possible causes of pipe leaks can help you reach out to a plumber sooner to prevent excessive damage. Here are some causes of pipe leaks you should know about.
Tree Root Intrusion
Trees are a source of multiple benefits to the environment and also act as a value-added aspect to Vancouver, WA, homes due to their aesthetic feel. Trees are alive, and they keep growing, so they have an impact on the surrounding. Their big roots can trigger hazards such as damaging underground plumbing pipes and shifting foundations of houses.
Intruding roots may misplace pipes from their original positions, making them bend or break and leak water. If you notice a sudden drop in water pressure, it could mean that there is a leak in the plumbing system. Also, you may find wet patches or holes in your yard. If you experience such, and you have trees near your home, you should consider calling a plumbing professional to examine the situation.
Clogged Drains
Clogs in the plumbing system are a common problem that most homeowners usually face. It can be irritating and inconvenient, especially if clogs occur in the sewer line or kitchen sinks and bathtubs. They can result in backflow issues that can deprive you of the usual fresh air.
You can address the problem by using drain cleaning detergents. However, if left untreated, you may have to deal with the resulting damages. If there are obstructions in your pipes, water continues to back up, causing pressure build-up.
Excessive water pressure in the plumbing system can eventually result in leaks or cause a pipe burst. That’s why it’s wise to contact a professional to address clogged drains immediately. Hair being the leading cause of blocking, a plumbing service can install hair traps to prevent future problems.
Old Pipes
Although pipes can last for a long time, they also experience wear and tear with time. Older homes often have pipes made of iron prone to corrosion, which causes the pipes to become weak. As a result, holes can form, and pipes may even break, resulting in water leaks.
If your home has older pipes, consider calling a certified plumber to install new ones that are resistant to corrosion. You can know you have corroded pipes if the water coming from the faucets has a strange color. You should seek services from a professional as soon as you experience such, to save you some cash later.
Temperature Fluctuations
Rapid temperature changes can cause the pipes to expand or contract. Metal pipes quickly expand and contract in extremes of hot and cold weather. It becomes more troublesome when the weather shifts from hot to cold, and if this happens frequently, it results in pipe cracks because the walls get thinner and may not withstand the normal water pressure.
It can also result in a pipe burst if the issue is not addressed sooner. Therefore, homeowners living in areas experiencing frequent temperature changes should request a plumber to examine the piping system and replace or repair existing pipes.
High Water Pressure
Having a hot shower feels nice on a chilly morning. While you get to enjoy the feeling, it can also mean you have high water pressure. Why should it be a concern? High water pressure may be good for your pipes since they are designed to withstand a certain amount of pressure.
Having a water pressure that’s too high can result in broken pipes and high water bills. High pressure stresses the piping system, making them susceptible to bursting. When you have abnormal pressure, you can notice leaks from taps as soon as you turn them off. Avoid this by calling a certified plumber to examine the water pressure and make corrective adjustments.
Broken Seals
The plumbing system is not a continuous piece as it provides water to multiple sections and appliances. During installation, a plumber usually installs rubber sealants in those areas to keep them watertight. With time, pipes age, seals wear out, and they may even fail. When that happens, water flowing to the appliances may start leaking.
Water puddles around the connections or condensation build-up can be a sign of loose or broken seals. You should contact a professional plumber to check the seals and upgrade them if necessary.
Improper Pipe Laying
Some homeowners may have been in contact with unqualified plumbers who pretend to offer quality jobs, but all they can do is bring you more problems. You should make sure you’re hiring the right provider to handle plumbing services, especially for new homes. Some pipe leaks happen due to improper pipe laying. Pipes should be laid properly since water flows against gravity.
Incorrect placement can result in water flow issues, such as long wait times for water to flow in your taps. You should contact a professional to handle the job to save you money on repairs and water bills. If you’re in doubt whether the pipes were installed correctly, talk to a certified plumber to examine and fix them.
Pilot Plumbing: A Reliable Plumber in Vancouver, WA
For over 15 years, Pilot Plumbing has offered plumbing services to residential and commercial clients in Vancouver, WA, and the surrounding areas. As a homeowner, you should pay attention to how your plumbing system behaves.
If you experience any of the above instances, it indicates a leak in the pipes and can lead to costly damages later. Feel free to call our trained technicians for help. We are available 24/7to handle plumbing services, including water line replacement, repiping, and leak detection and repair.
