Although it may seem simple to fix little things around your house, the fact of the matter is that there are a few professionals who really do work hard to make your life better. For instance, while you may be likely to paint your place on your own, even doing something as simple as switching out a toilet can be really challenging. I started thinking about how valuable professionals like plumbers were for my business, and I wanted to start a new blog that centered around how much a plumber can help to make your life better. Check out this website for tips on finding a talented plumber.
When it comes to maintaining a smoothly running household, plumbing is often overlooked until a problem a
Leaks are a common issue that many homeowners face, often appearing as minor nuisances but potentially le
Sewer excavation may not be the most glamorous topic, but it plays a crucial role in our daily lives. Fro
A functional hot water heater is a cornerstone of modern convenience and comfort. Whether it's for a rela
When it comes to home improvements, updating plumbing fixtures might not be the first thing on your list,
One of the biggest worries when it comes to home maintenance is the dreaded plumbing leak. Even a small leak can lead to big problems, like high water bills and major water damage inside the home. By knowing the four common causes of leaks, you may be able to avoid them completely, or at least be able to recognize them before the problem becomes severe.
1. Broken Seals
Plumbing fixtures always contain at least one seal. For example, your faucets typically have a seal or washer in the tap handles, as well as a seal inside the faucet tip. Ball and joint style faucets have an o-ring, which leads to major leaks around the faucet base if it fails. The entire faucet assembly also sometimes sits inside a seal. Even your toilet has a wax ring seal around the base of the appliance. If you notice any water around a seam between the fixture and the wall or sink, then the seal likely needs replaced. Dripping faucets can also indicate a failing seal.
2. Clogs
Not all clogs lead to an immediate backup in the drain Sometimes, clogs are just bad enough to slow the flow of water so that is seeps more slowly down the pipe. The water that is trapped behind the clog may put pressure on pipe seams, eventually leading to a leak under the sink or in the wall. Drains that empty slowly, such as in the sink or tub, or a toilet that requires multiple flushes to clear the blow, are signs that a clog could be developing.
3. Drain Cleaner Overuse
It may seem counter-intuitive, but repeated use of chemical drain cleaners may actually damage your pipes over time. The same harsh chemicals that eat away at clogs can also etch and damage the pipes to the point where they weaken and a leak occurs. Occasional use likely won't cause harm, but if you find yourself reaching for drain cleaner every few days, then there may be an issue. Instead of depending on the frequent use of drain cleaners, bring in a plumber to address your clog issues.
4. Pipe Corrosion
Older plumbing systems are often composed of metal pipes, which can corrode and rust over time. Small pinprick holes will develop as the pipes corrode, leading to leaks inside the walls. Modern plumbing is typically made from PVC piping, which won't corrode. If you have old metal pipes, schedule a plumbing inspection to make sure there are no corrosion problems.
For more help with a leak, contact a plumber in your area.
Share