As a homeowner, I worry about leaky pipes.
I realize that even a minor leak that goes undetected can cause a great deal of damage and expense.
There are times when leaks are concealed behind a wall or under the floor. I am always on the lookout for signs of water where it shouldn’t be. Moisture from a leak sometimes shows up as stains on the ceilings or walls. A sagging ceiling, warped wall or peeling paint indicates a water leak behind the drywall. When we moved into our home, there was a spot in the bathroom where the paint constantly bubbled. It took me a while to realize that the pipes from a different bathroom ran behind that wall. Another warning sign is low water pressure. When I turn on the faucet or shower, I expect a decent rush of water. If the water trickles, it’s likely that the water is escaping through a leak before it reaches the fixture. Water leaks are typically synonymous with an increase in the water bill. If we aren’t watering the lawn, washing cars, filling the hot tub and don’t have company visiting, the only reason why the cost is higher is a leak. It could be as simple as a dripping faucet, constantly running toilet or a faulty valve for the outdoor garden hose. The moisture from a plumbing leak creates the ideal environment for mold or mildew growth. For mold to get started, the surface just needs to be moist for 24 to 48 hours. Cleaning and disinfecting doesn’t fix the problem. It’s necessary to find and fix the leak to eliminate the source of water. Sometimes, I might not see but smell the mold or mildew growth. It has a musty odor. There’s also the possibility that the smell is due to stale water accumulating at the source of the leak.