Leaky pipes may not seem like a big deal. But leaving them unattended will cause greater problems. So if you think a leak looks harmless, think again. Especially when you get the water bill and have to pay a higher than normal amount.
We’ll be discussing the seven common causes of leaky pipes. Once you are aware of what they are, it’s important to take the necessary precautions. We’ll describe the best ones for every cause. In addition, we’ll make sure your home or business takes the necessary preventative measures.
Ready to see what the list has? Let’s get started.
Corrosion
The first we’ll look at is corrosion. It can cause plenty of damage to pipes. The factors for this cause include but are not limited to chemical reactions, water acidity, and the age of your pipes. Regardless, corrosion can create cracks and holes that will pave the way for water leaks.
If your plumbing system doesn’t appear up to date, it may be time to make some serious changes. But if your pipes are more modern, check them regularly. If you deal with hard water issues regularly, maintenance will be key as it can be a major cause for corrosion.
High water pressure
Too much can be a bad thing. The same applies to water pressure. Having too high of an amount can add plenty of stress on the pipes. Not to mention, it can also add stress to your wallet due to the amount of money you’ll shell out for the next water bill.
To know if you are dealing with high water pressure, turn on a faucet. If you hear any banging as you do this, this can be a sign. Otherwise, it may come in the form of the increased water bill and nothing more.
Talk about a subtle message that translates into “something may be wrong with your pipes”.
Nonetheless, installing a pressure regulator can prevent such issues. This way, you have adequate pressure every time.
Hard water
We’ve already mentioned hard water while discussing corrosion. So let’s take a look at why it causes leaky pipes. It contains high amounts of minerals like calcium and magnesium. These will create buildup in your pipes over time.
Not only will it cause corrosion but also blockages. When mixed with soap and detergents, it can cause a chemical reaction that can leave soap scum behind. And that alone can make things much more difficult.
In order to reduce the hard water effects, you’ll want to install a water softener.
Clogged drains
Ah yes – the dreaded clogged drains. If the drains and pipes are clogged just enough, it can lead to leaks. That’s because the water pressure will build up to the point where it adds extra stress to the pipes. The best preventative measures is to install drain guards, avoid dumping grease or even food particles down the drain, and perform regular maintenance.
You could clear the drains with a drain cleaner. But the challenge is that some of them contain harsh chemicals. Those can do more harm than good to your pipes. And of course, it could increase the chance of leaky pipes.
So think of other solutions that are not so counterintuitive. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Keep the unnecessary stuff out of your drains and you’ll be fine.
Tree roots
Believe it or not, tree roots on your property can cause leaky pipes and lead to seepage repairs. It’s true. They can get so deep into the ground that they can block or even damage your pipes. It can even affect your sewer system as well.
So what should you do here? Well, it may be a good idea to have a professional plumber examine the extent of the situation. Before that happens, inspect your property for any potential threats from certain trees. If you spot any possible concern spots, call a plumber and even a tree root removal specialist to take care of the issue.
Age of the plumbing system
Needless to say, nothing ever lasts forever. Your plumbing system will get older and be more susceptible to leaks and damage. Of course, the material of the pipes may determine the longevity. For example, copper pipes can last as long as a century!
That’s right – 100 years is the average lifespan for copper pipes due to their excellent durability. Cast iron pipes can last the same amount of time, but perhaps no lower than 75 years with proper maintenance.
However, cast iron pipes are no longer an option for installation and have been for over 40 years at this point.
Other materials like brass, iron, and steel can last 50 to 75 years. Nonetheless, it’s important to take a look at any documentation regarding the last time the pipes were installed. If they were done a long time ago, this part can be a challenge. A professional plumber may be able to determine the possible age of the pipes and the material it’s made from.
Poor installation
Finally, pipes that have been poorly installed can cause leaks. The factors range from improper sizing, poor sealing, or even incorrect materials. Nonetheless, it is important to make sure a plumbing professional installs these pipes if you lack the skills to do them yourself. It will save you a lot of time and even money on emergency repairs.
Even though professional repair is a bit more expensive than DIY, it’s a good enough investment. Especially when poor installation will lead you to spending more money than necessary.
Final Thoughts
These seven common causes of leaky pipes are something to look out for. Don’t wait before it’s too late to get them checked and fixed. Now might be the time to check your pipes to see if there are any leaks that may exist. If any are present, contact Legendess Plumbing for service in Media, PA and the surrounding area at 484-352-2220.
We’ll fix your leaky pipes and give you peace of mind. If you get leaks, don’t wait! Contact us as soon as possible.