Leaking pipes is an inconvenient problem that can lead to property damage and may even cause health risks. As a property owner, it is important to know why pipes leak so that you can protect your pipes from this problem and prevent any damage, inconvenience, and disruption in your home or business activities. Carpet cleaners in Los Angeles can attest to the inconvenience that leaking pipes can cause. And wet, smelly carpets are just one of the things leaking pipes can lead to. Below, we cover the top ten most common causes of leaking pipes.
Understanding the top ten most common causes of leaking pipes will help property managers and homeowners spot problems-in-the-making and address them before they create a bigger concern.
The Top Ten Most Common Causes of Leaking Pipes
Corrosion
More common in older homes with old plumbing systems, this happens due to chemical reactions with water or soil. Acidic, hard, and oxygenated water can cause corrosion, as well as high velocity which happens when water, especially hot water, travels fast through the pipes.
Poorly sealed pipe joints
When pipe joints are old or poorly sealed, they can cause leaks. As time passes, these joints may degrade, and may lead to water seepage. Inspect and replace worn out joints to prevent problems.
Clogged lines
Hair, grease, and food debris are some common causes of clogs. Some homeowners or property managers may treat clogs as a small concern which does not need an urgent solution. However, these clogs may cause pressure to build up behind the blockage. When this happens, you may end up with structural damage. Matters may become worse when the clog consists of corrosive substances. This can damage the pipes even faster.
Changes in Temperature
Fluctuations in temperature are also bad for your pipes. Expansion and contraction of pipes happen in extreme fluctuations. This leads to cracks and leaks. Frozen pipes in winter may burst when they thaw. To avoid temperature-related leaks, you can stabilize interior temperature by insulating pipes.
Tree roots
Remember that some plumbing problems can be caused by factors outside of your home, like tree roots. Tree roots in search of water can invade and intrude in your pipes. This can cause your pipes to break or crack. To prevent root intrusion, regularly trim your trees and install root barriers.
Incorrect pipe laying
A lot of leaks that need emergency attention are caused by incorrect laying of leaks by inexperienced and unskilled workers. When you are building a home, renovating or remodeling, always call licensed professionals to work on your pipes. This will help ensure that everything is done correctly and according to standards.
Aging pipes
Pipes will eventually age, and when they do, they become susceptible to cracks and leaks. Steel pipes or cast iron pipes usually used in older homes are particularly prone to corrosion and deterioration. If you want to reduce the risk of leaks, consider upgrading to more modern materials like PVC.
Loose water connectors
When hoses and pipes that supply water to your appliances become loose, water may leak out and form puddles around your appliance. To prevent problems and other hazards, regularly check that hoses are properly and tightly connected to your appliances.
High water pressure
One of the first things that renters check before signing the lease is the water pressure. The stronger the pressure is, the better. However, when it comes to plumbing, the stronger the pressure, the greater the risk for leaks. There is a limit to what your pipes and faucets can take. If water pressure is strong in your property, ensure that it is within what your pipes and faucets can withstand by asking a licensed professional to test it.
Underground movements
Underground pipes can twist, bend, and crack when there are movements underground. Sometimes, they can even separate. These can all cause underground leaks which may result in slow drainage or water supply problems. Maintain your underground pipes with the help of licensed professionals.
Leaking pipes can lead to bigger problems and costly damages if they are not addressed properly and promptly. Protect your property by ensuring proper maintenance to your plumbing system. In case of a water emergency, do not hesitate to request for water removal service. SteamPro technicians are well trained and highly capable of solving your water emergencies.