3 Quick Fixes for Leaking Pipes

A home's pipes are essential to keeping everything running properly, but when a pipe starts to leak, that can mean big problems for homeowners. A leaking pipe might not be visible right away, leading to major damages if not addressed. If you do find that a pipe is leaking, there are three quick fixes you can make until a plumbing professional is able to come out and assess the extent of the issue. Your first step should always be to turn off the water supply valve. If the leak is in a water supply pipe beneath a sink, turn off the water supply valves under the sink. Otherwise, turn off your home’s main water supply valve to limit the amount of water that can cause damage.

USE AVAILABLE MATERIALS

If your pipe is hemorrhaging water and you don't have enough time to make it to a store to get the necessary supplies, try to use items that you have on-hand. If the hole is small, stick a pencil point into it. Wrap the pipe with electrician's tape and use putty if you have it to ensure it doesn't leak. This should buy you enough time to call a professional or make permanent repairs. Try wrapping a piece of rubber around the pipe, then using a C-clamp and blocks of wood to hold it in place. Don’t clamp down too hard or you’ll bend or damage the pipe. These items can potentially minimize damage and allow you to keep the main water valve on to supply the rest of the house. Your next step should be to call a plumber or get materials to fully fix the problem.

PUT ON A PATCH

Patching up a pipe will be much more effective than using items within reach. Epoxy compounds and pipe wraps can be applied anywhere on the pipe for all types of leaks and cracks. This ensures that the pipe will hold until it can be replaced or fully repaired. Depending on the damage, it may be more cost-effective to put in a new pipe section, but this quick fix can give you the time to make necessary repairs on your own schedule.

CALL A PROFESSIONAL

Although this fix might not be as fast as the other two, a plumbing expert can easily and quickly address an assortment of leak issues, and will have the tools on hand to get the job right the first time. This will get your plumbing system a permanent, reliable fix and provide you peace of mind knowing that your pipes were repaired correctly. Roto-Rooter plumbers are licensed, experienced and fully capable of repairing any leaking water pipe. Plumbers can also fully replace a damaged section of pipe if needed or will provide you with options to patch the hole.

Fixing a leaking pipe can be difficult if tackled on your own. With these three quick tips, you'll be able to lessen or hold the leak until you can call a professional or gather the materials to make permanent fixes. Call a Roto-Rooter professional today to help with your leaking pipes.

3 LEAKS YOU CAN FIX YOURSELF

The key to addressing plumbing issues is knowing when to call for professional help so you don't worsen the problem which could lead to significant water damage. Fortunately, there are a number of leaks you could address on your own that should not cause further issues.

Here are three leaks that don't require the services of a plumber:

Loose showerhead connections

Leaky showerheads are among the simplest fixes. The source of the issue may be that the fixture is loose. In this case, resolving the leak is as easy as tightening the device.

For more complex showerhead leaks, you'll have to head to the hardware store. While you're there, pick up some Teflon or plumber tape, which will help with creating a tight seal and prevent corrosion. You wrap this tape around the threads.

When you remove the showerhead, also check that the threads don't have lime scale buildup. If so, soak the part in vinegar and wipe with a cloth before applying the tape. Keep an eye out for worn rubber gaskets and replace them as those could also be the source of the leak.

Pinhole leaks in copper pipes

Though all pipework may seem too complex for amateurs, addressing pinhole leaks is not a complex task. If you're handy with a soldering iron, make the repair by cutting out the leaky section and welding in a new one. If you're apprehensive about welding, you can use pipe-repair clamps or epoxy.

Regardless which route you take, keep two points in mind: Always shut off water to the entire house before making a repair, and ensure the pipe is completely dry before soldering, applying epoxy or clamping. If the water is left on, you will end up with water all over and a big water damage cleanup project..

Leaks from faucets

Leaky faucets are often the result of issues with the gaskets or washers. Simply replacing these items is usually sufficient.

However, remember that the complexity of the faucet type can make it harder to find the leak. Also, in certain cases, it may be more ideal to replace a faucet, especially an old one.

Call your local Roto-Rooter for all your professional plumbing needs.