Leaking Pipes: A Major Cause of Water Damage

One of the most common causes of indoor water damage are leaking pipes. Since these water pipes are mostly hidden behind the walls in the home, water damage can go unnoticed for extended period until it becomes severe. When you have an indoor water damage from leaking pipes, it is advisable to call a water restoration expert for help.

Signs of Leaking Pipes

So, how do you know your pipes are unhealthy? Here are some signs to look out for

Corrosion

The older your pipes, the higher the risks of wear and tear. They begin to corrode and rust. Corrosion not only weakens your pipes but also negatively impact their structural integrity. One of the major signs of corrosion is discoloration or rusty pipes. Another sign of corrosion is warping. If you home’s plumbing system is over a decade old, you should inspect your pipes to see if they are still in perfect working condition.

Broken Seals

All connections from pipes to appliances are installed with seals. As they age, seals weaken and begin to crack. A broken seal can cause a major water damage in the home. Signs of broken seals including pooling of water or condensation around your appliances. If this is the case, then you most likely have a broken seal. Contact a water restoration expert to get it fixed.

Weakened Pipe Joints

The weakest points in the plumbing system are the pipe connectors. These pipe connectors make it possible for pits to turn, curve and bend to any position of choice. When these joints weaken, they can cause water damage. Inspecting pipe joints can be a herculean tasks as they are mostly located in invisible areas like behind the walls. One way to know if the water damage is a result of weakened pipe is to listen closely for noisy pipes, and ticking noises when the water is turned on. These strange noises often mean that the pipe joints are under immense pressure, and should be checked immediately by a water restoration expert.

Water Pressure

Of course, you’d enjoy using your shower with a high water pressure, but this is not the case with your pipes. High water pressure on your pipes can cause it to leak and eventually burst. Pipes are designed to withstand certain amount of water pressure. Once it surpasses that level, your pipes may give in and eventually burst. With no one around to turn off the water after the pipe burst, you will return to a flooded home. To prevent pipe burst or leaks from high water pressure, you can always check the water pressure going to your home with a water pressure gauge. An average home should have a pressure of around 55 PSI on average.

With proper maintenance and scheduling routine inspection, you can rest assured that your home’s water pipe will be in great condition, minimizing the risks of leakage. If you find yourself dealing with water damage in your home, call water restoration experts for help immediately.