Post By Admin
September 4, 2024Got a leaking pipe and don’t know what to do next? Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Many Melbourne homeowners encounter this issue at some point and ask, “How to fix a leaking pipe?”
This guide will walk you through everything, from the common causes of leaks to how to fix leaking pipes efficiently – which can be resolved through a leak detection service!
But if you’re curious to fix it yourself, let’s explore some basic steps you can take to identify and manage a leaking pipe on your own!
Common Causes of a Leaking Pipe
Have you noticed recent changes in your water bills? Well, that’s most likely triggered by a reason that the pipe is leaking.
When it comes to leaks: sometimes, they can begin as a small drip that you do not really notice. Those little drips can actually develop into something pretty severe over time.
Leaks can happen for a whole range of reasons you might not be able to control, from the wear and tear of daily use or unexpected blockages or damage.
This is why it’s important to identify the likely culprits so that you never have these issues in future and are sure about what needs to be done for a leaking pipe repair! Understanding the common causes can help you spot a problem early and take action before things get worse.
Let’s take a closer look at some common causes.
1. Blocked Pipe
This is definitely one of the things we see all too often! When gunk such as grease, hair or soap scum build a blockage to water flow.
Over time, this causes pressure to build up behind the blockage and triggers a leak through the pipe fractures or ruptures.
2. Corrosion
Corrosion is also another common reason for leaks to occur. The materials, especially the metal ones of your pipes can corrode over time due to water quality or age.
Over time, this corrosion will start to weaken the pipe walls and cause small holes or cracks – which calls for urgent leaking pipe repair to hinder a much more intense water damage.
3. Roots in Pipes
Believe it or not, tree roots can be one of the leading causes for plumbing issues to arise within your home. Roots in pipes clog pipes and grow large enough to break through the pipe walls.
Since roots naturally seek out moisture, even a small crack will encourage roots to explore further into your system. If you know that your pipes may have roots infiltrating them, then consider a leak detection service to identify the problem.
4. Temperature Changes
Pipes may be even more sensitive to temperature change, particularly extreme changes. This can be dangerous because if the water becomes frozen, then you might deal with cracked or burst pipes.
Conversely, water that is too hot can elongate and shorten some pipes over time (which would eventually weaken them to a point of leaking.)
5. High Water Pressure
Increased water pressure places added strain on the pipes and their connections causing leaks to develop.
However, if the water pressure in your home is always high, it might be a good idea to reduce it so you avoid any need of recurring repairs.
6. Shifting or Settling Ground
Even the ground beneath your house can mess with your plumbing. Changes in weather, construction work nearby or a shifting or settling soil putting pressure on pipes can cause the pipe to crack and break.
In the worst-case scenario, leaking pipes can happen after a massive storm or some construction that happened in the vicinity.
If you want to stop any leaks from developing in your home, it’ll be crucial that you first understand what the most common causes of this are.
Dealing with frequent leaks? Or suspecting there’s a more significant issue at play? Such concerns further emphasize why you need leak detection service. Professionals can catch the problem early and save you from more expensive repairs later on.
How to Fix a Leaking Pipe
Ready to learn how to fix that pesky leak? Let’s move on to the step-by-step process to get your plumbing back in top shape!
Depending on the severity and location of the leak, different methods can be used for leakage repair. From draining the pipes to more advanced solutions like pipe relining, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
The very first step in fixing a leaking pipe is to turn off the water supply.
This stops the flow of water and prevents further damage. Locate the main shut-off valve in your home, usually found in the basement, garage, or near the water meter, and turn it off.
2. Drain the Pipes
Once the water supply is turned off, open all the faucets in your home to drain any remaining water in the pipes.
This step ensures that you won’t have any surprise water spurts when you start working on the leak. Make sure to check both hot and cold water faucets to completely drain the water pipe system.
3. Identify the Leak
The next step is to locate where the water pipe is leaking. Sometimes, the leak is obvious with water dripping or pooling around the area.
Other times, it might be hidden behind walls or under floors, making it harder to spot. Use a flashlight to inspect the pipes and look for signs of moisture, rust, or mould, which can indicate the location of the leak.
4. Patch the Leaking Pipe
If you’ve identified a small leak, a quick and temporary solution can be to patch the leaking pipe. You can use a pipe clamp, rubber patch, or epoxy putty as a temporary fix.
Simply follow the instructions on the patching material, making sure to cover the leak completely.
5. Consider Pipe Relining
For more severe leaks or if your pipes are old and prone to frequent leaks, pipe relining might be the best solution.
It is a non-invasive method of repairing pipes without the need for extensive digging or demolition. A new lining is inserted into the existing pipe, effectively creating a new, durable pipe within the old one.
This method not only repairs the current leak but also prevents future leaks, making it a great option for long-term leakage repair.
Also read: How to Fix a Leaking Mixer Tap
How Long Does It Take to Fix a Water Pipe?
A small patch job on minor leaks like a crack or loose joint might only take an hour. But if the leak is fairly significant and inaccessible, then the repair can take a bit more time.
So if you have several leaks or a larger water damage area, not to mention repair that is needed behind the walls or underground – it may take hours and even a full day to fix the leaking pipe!
So it’s always best to call in professional plumbers as they have the tools and expertise to handle all types of leaks, from minor repairs to full pipe relining services.
Ultimately, the time it takes to fix a leaking pipe depends on the specific circumstances of the leak. While some repairs are quick and easy, others may require more time and professional assistance.
Regardless of the situation, addressing a leak promptly and effectively is key to preventing further damage and ensuring your plumbing system runs smoothly.
Conclusion
Why spend time worrying about leaks when our skilled plumbers can take care of everything for you?
If you’re dealing with a persistent leak or need a more permanent solution, it might be time to call in the experts. Our team at Neighbourhood Plumbing Melbourne provides reliable and long-lasting solution to keep your plumbing system in top shape.
Pipe relining, in particular, is a fantastic way to repair damaged pipes without having to dig up your property, saving you time and hassle.
And if you’re unsure about where to start or simply want peace of mind, our leak detection service is here to help! We can pinpoint the problem without the guesswork and make the overall repair process smoother and quicker.
Give us a call today at 0488 885 122! Also, don’t forget to check out our other blog posts for more helpful tips and guides on maintaining your plumbing system and preventing future issues.
About the Author
From unclogging the toughest drains to repairing leaking toilets, Ricky is a seasoned plumber who has brought his craftmanship to homes across Melbourne. He is passionate about sharing plumbing tips just as much as he is about fixing your plumbing issues. So, when your taps or pipes begin leaking, you know who to call.
