Leaky pipes can be a real pain in the neck. In most cases, the drip of a leaky faucet is just that: a simple drip. However, a slow leak can also lead to something much more serious going on with your pipes. Even leaks that just a small drip can cause even bigger issues in the long run if not looked properly.
What Can Cause Pipes To Leak?
There are many different reasons why pipes can start leaking:
- Foundation shifts- shifts in your homes foundation over time can generate big adjustments in your water line. Those changes can result in them to disconnect or rupture.
- High water pressure- water moving through your pipes at high speeds can increase the chance of your pipes bursting. Changes in the direction of the water can be to much pressure on the pipes causing leaks.
- Tree Roots- small cracks in pipes can release water into the soil where tree roots will take note and burrow their way into the pipes
- Corrosion – older homes use copper or galvanized steel that can be predisposed to rust.
- Temperature change – changes in temperature, mostly in the winter, can cause pipes to crack forming leaks
Leaking pipes are a serious problem, but if you catch it early enough, there are several ways to stop it before it gets out of hand. Knowing the signs of a leaking pipe is an important part of preventing the leak in the first place.
Problems That Leaking Pipes Can Cause for You Home
If Leaking pipes go unnoticed for long periods of time can lead to major issues with your home and health. Some warning signs that you have leaking pipes are warped and stained walls, mold growth, and a musty odor. The long you ignore the damage the worse the problem will be and the more it will cost you to fix the issue. One of the worst things that could happen when you ignore leaks is flooding. It only takes one pipe to burst for it to wreak havoc on your home.
When It’s Time to Call a Plumber?
Leaking pipes can often be fixed before they even become a problem. By keeping an eye on your water meter and looking for unusual noises or smells, you can often avoid serious repairs by getting the issue taken care of right away. Call our team of licensed plumbers in the Granite City, IL area if you notice anything questionable or ask them to come out for an annual checkup and tune-up to make sure everything is working properly. When in doubt call the professions at Bailey Sewer and Water! You’ll be glad you did.