Important Info About Water Leak Detection
Whether coming from a slow leak or a burst pipe, water damage can be very costly to repair and disruptive to your life.
When you first notice signs of potential leaks, like damp spots or pooling water, don’t put it off.
You never know what is brewing behind those walls or under the floor. Here is some relevant info for you about water leaks and how to detect them.
The Damage Caused by Leaks
Obviously, if your belongings get wet, they may be damaged or even entirely destroyed.
But did you know that even a small amount of water from a leak can cause serious damage to your home’s structure?
If wood joists, beams or drywall get wet, they can warp, bend and break.
The other issue is the health dangers that can come as result of water damage.
Damp areas promote the growth of mold, which is extremely hazardous to your family’s health.
Don’t take the chance. If you spot a leak, get it fixed today.
The Value of Preventative Maintenance: Keep Watch
Would you rather pay a little or pay a lot?
The beauty of preventative maintenance is that you can keep costly repairs and damage at bay by committing to removing problems before they have a chance to develop.
Most leaks you can spot with your own eyes, but if the leak is coming from the piping in your foundation or from the concrete slab that your home is on, you’ll need professionals with special equipment to detect the leak and proceed with repairs.
If you have an increase in your water bills, hear water running even when things are turned off, or your water heater turning on more frequently than it should, you should consider getting it looked at.
Inspect piping under sinks regularly; drain your water heater a couple of times a year to remove sediment; replace sections (or all) of old piping to prevent corrosion.
The Source of the Leak
Leaks can be caused by all kinds of things in your home.
Some of the most common (and most damaging) causes of leaks believe or not are faulty hoses on your washing machine or ice maker on your fridge.
These hoses are typically made of rubber and break eventually. It’s worth your while to upgrade these hoses to stainless steel to prevent breakage.
Sometimes, pipes will crack or break as well, usually due to age, corrosion or extreme temperatures.
Another common source of leaks is a tree root that has pushed its way through the pipe.
If you see evidence of a leak, like pooling water, damp spots on the wall or ceiling, mold growth, or smell something musty in your home, call for professional support.