There’s nothing more frustrating than a plumbing leak. Whether it’s the slow and steady drip of a faucet or a sudden burst pipe in the cold, leaks can lead to serious water damage, mold growth, and wasted water. Luckily, homeowners can find simple ways to prevent plumbing leaks and have peace of mind that their home is protected against emergencies.
In this article, the professional plumbers at GEM discuss how to prevent water leaks in your house by identifying common causes of issues, signs you need a professional, and steps to take to reduce future risks.
Common Causes of Plumbing Leaks in Southeast Massachusetts
There are many things that can cause the plumbing in your home to have leaks. The most common include:
- Freeze-thaw pipe damage: Harsh Massachusetts weather can cause water in pipes to freeze, expand, and crack. This is especially true for unheated areas like basements or crawl spaces.
- Aging pipes: Homes in the area tend to have older pipe systems made of galvanized steel, cast iron, or copper that can corrode and leak over time.
- Corrosion: Some areas of Massachusetts have a slightly acidic water supply that can accelerate pipe corrosion and lead to pinhole leaks.
- High water pressure: Homeowners who have water pressure that exceeds safe levels can put added stress on plumbing joints, valves, and appliance connections.
- Foundation shifts: Seasonal ground movement due to moisture can put stress on buried pipes and lead to slab leaks.
- Worn components: Seals around joints, valves, and fittings can dry out and loosen over time, allowing water to leak.
Signs of Hidden Plumbing Leaks
Homeowners should always address leaks promptly to avoid serious water damage. It may be time to schedule a plumbing repair if you notice:
- Increasing water bills: Bills that continue to rise without added water use could be the result of a leak in your system.
- Water stains: Discolored walls, ceilings, and floors are often the result of a leak hiding behind them.
- Mold growth: Musty odors and mold growth are caused by persistent moisture due to unaddressed leaks.
- Low water pressure: Since leaks divert water from fixtures, homeowners may notice lower overall water pressure.
- Sounds of running water: A common sign of leaks is the sound of running water behind walls or floors.
- Warped floors: Warped floor boards or bubbling paint indicate long-term moisture exposure.
Leak Prevention Tips for Homeowners
The best way for homeowners to protect against water damage and serious issues is with routine plumbing maintenance. Not only does this help you avoid expensive repairs, but it also offers long-term cost savings as it ensures your plumbing system is working efficiently. Try following our plumbing maintenance checklist:
- Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing or cracking in the Massachusetts winter cold.
- Monitor your water pressure with a pressure regulator to protect against excess strain.
- Replace aging pipes and hoses to reduce the risk of sudden failures.
- Avoid harsh chemical drain cleanings that can weaken pipes and accelerate corrosion.
- Check under sinks and around appliances regularly for minor leaks.
- Winterize your outdoor plumbing before freezing temperatures occur.
- Schedule routine plumbing inspections to catch issues early.
When To Call A Professional
Professional attention is key to minimizing the damage from a hidden leak. Call GEM for expert leak detection and repair services in these scenarios:
- Persistent leaks: If you are always chasing down a new leak, it could signal an underlying pipe or pressure issue.
- Hidden leaks: Homeowners will need professional repair if their leak is hidden behind drywall, flooring, or ceilings.
- Sudden drop in water pressure: A large drop in water pressure could indicate a significant leak or pipe failure.
- Water damage: A professional can get to the root of any new water damage by using leak detection to find the cause.
- Frozen pipes: Contact a plumber if your pipes are frozen to have them safely thawed before they burst.
- Outdated plumbing: Homes with aging pipe materials need the expertise of a skilled plumber.
Why Choose GEM
Leaks can be a serious plumbing emergency. That’s why Massachusetts homeowners trust GEM to provide 24-hour expert leak detection and repair services. With more than 75 years of industry experience, our trained and licensed plumbers have the skills to handle even the most complex leak with upfront pricing and personalized care. Plus, we offer free estimates on replacements if your aging pipes are ready for an upgrade.
Contact GEM today to schedule leak detection and repair services from our qualified team.