Leaks? What to do to repair them

 

Leaks are undesirable for most homeowners. They can cause extensive damage to the home and potentially lead to costly and time-consuming repairs. Diagnosing, locating and accurately repairing a leak is not a task for the inexperienced. In fact, there are several systems, pipes, fixtures and equipment within the home that can cause a leak. This is why it is important to rely on an experienced and licensed plumbing professional for diagnosis and repair.

Recognising the signs of a leak

As a homeowner, it is important to be able to identify if there are any problems or leaks going on in your home. If spotted early, the signs of a leak can potentially save you from extensive home damage and costly repairs. Below are some common signs of leaks.

• Damp spots on plasterboard
• Increased water or utility bills
• Sound of running water when water is not in use
• Damp floors or carpets
• Mould growth
• Frequent clogging or stagnation of waste water
• Excess water in the garden
• Water leaks from fixtures
• The toilet runs continuously

Depending on the type of leak, there are a few things that can be done to prevent further damage. To begin with, if the leak concerns a plumbing system or water line, it is advisable to close the shut-off valve of that particular system or, potentially, the main shut-off valve. By closing the shut-off valve, water is prevented from reaching the appliance or plumbing. 

Outdoor water leaks

If you have an outdoor water leak, and you don't know where to start, here are some useful tips to solve the problem. To begin with, do you know where the leak is coming from and where the shut-off valves are located? Turning off the main tap will prevent the continuous supply of water to your home and can be crucial when dealing with major leaks. 

For water leaks outside, it can be helpful to know what equipment or system is leaking. For example, homeowners who have multiple systems, such as an irrigation system and a pool system, should try to determine in advance which system is leaking. This way, the correct type of professional can be contacted for repair. 

Call an authorised plumber

Sometimes you hear from technicians that 'no two leaks are the same. With various fixtures and systems inside and outside a home, it can be difficult to determine where a leak is located. If you suspect that there is a leak in your home but don't know where to start, call a licensed plumber. Depending on what is happening, the licensed plumber may start with a visual inspection. If further diagnosis is needed, he may recommend opening up the walls by removing drywall or performing a leak detection or smoke detection test. 

Call the Emergency Plumber in Cambridge. We are 24 hours available.