Pipe Leak Repair – 4 Quick Tips to Stop a Leaking Pipe
When a pipe leaks, it’s important to find out the cause of the problem and have it fixed right away. Even a small leak can lead to major damage over time, which will cost you money for materials and labor. Pipe leak repair can also reduce your water bill by stopping the loss of water. In addition, a leaking pipe can attract dirt and other elements into your home, which can be difficult to remove and will negatively affect the quality of your water.
In the meantime, there are three quick fixes you can use to help stop a leaking pipe and protect your home until you have a plumber come out to fix the leak permanently.
1) Turn off the Water Supply: The first thing you should do when you suspect a leak or burst pipe is to shut off the water supply. You can do this by turning off the water valve for the entire house, which is typically located near the water meter outside your home, in the basement or in a utility room. This will prevent more water from entering your home and prevent further damage from occurring to your walls, floors and property.
2) Repair the Leak: There are a number of different methods for fixing a leaking pipe, depending on the type and size of the leak and the water pressure. If your leak is in a pipe that supplies drinking water, make sure to only use a repair product approved for use with potable water. The best option for most leaks is a rubber patch with a hose clamp. These are available in a variety of sizes to fit most pipes, and work much like the clamps used on automotive radiator hoses. Simply line up the gasket with the leak, and then secure it tightly using the included hose clamps.
3) Apply Plumber’s Putty: If you have access to the damaged section of the pipe, you can use plumber’s epoxy putty to seal the leak and repair any cracked or worn areas of the pipe. This is a cheap and easy way to quickly get a temporary fix for the leak, but be aware that it won’t last long, and it will require some skill to apply properly.
4) Turn Back on the Water: Once you’ve completed your Pipe leak repair, it’s important to slowly turn back on the water and check for any further issues. You should also have a professional thoroughly dry the area and check for any hidden damage to your walls, ceilings or flooring that may have occurred. Once you’re confident that the repair is complete, you can then move on to hiring a professional plumber to do a permanent repair to the leaking pipe. Be sure to hire a local plumber that offers plumbing services in your area. This will ensure that they have the right experience and equipment to correctly repair your leaking pipe. It’s also a good idea to schedule regular plumbing inspections of your home to catch problems before they turn into disasters!