What Causes Home Plumbing Leaks?

Water leaks are a common plumbing problem in homes and businesses. Left undetected and unrepaired, plumbing leaks can cause serious damage to walls, foundations, flooring, and cabinetry. Knowing the common causes of water leaks can help you take action by hiring a reliable plumbing repair service. Let’s explore the common causes of home plumbing leaks and why Neighborhood Plumbing is the company to call for professional leak detection.

Deterioration of Piping

Pipes have a finite lifespan, meaning they will inevitably get old and deteriorate. Pipe deterioration is often caused by consistent use, as well as corrosion, extreme temperature fluctuations, and environmental conditions. In most homes, pipe deterioration starts to become noticeable after several decades, typically 50-80 years. Copper and PVC pipes may fail even sooner, sometimes within 20-50 years. If you’re aware that your pipes are deteriorating or you’ve noticed signs of water leaks, do not hesitate to contact a professional plumber to repipe your home.

Broken or Degraded Seals

Your pipes, faucets, toilets, showers, and dishwashers contain seals that create watertight enclosures. However, even the most durable seals can degrade over time. Once the degradation starts, the seals can leave gaps where water can escape through. If you notice puddles of water around your water heater, washing machine, or dishwasher, this may be a sign of seal damage. Contact a local plumbing repair service once you notice signs of degraded seals to prevent property damage.

Tree Roots

It’s easy to overlook the threat tree roots pose to pipes running underground, but they’re a common cause of home plumbing leaks. Roots naturally seek out water and nutrients, and they can infiltrate pipes through the smallest cracks or loose joints. As these roots grow bigger, they can exert immense pressure on the pipes and cause leaks.

Some of the common signs of root damage include puddles in your yard and unexplained sinkholes. It’s advisable to seek help from a nearby leak detection specialist when you notice signs of a water leak outside your home. As a preventive measure, keep trees with aggressive roots at least 10 feet away from your pipes. Installing physical barriers can also help protect your pipes from invasive tree roots.

High Water Pressure

While some of your family members may love high water pressure in the shower, your pipes don’t love it. The acceptable water pressure range for residential properties is between 40-80 PSI. If the water pressure exceeds 80 PSI, it’s only a matter of time before your pipes give out. Consistent exposure to high water pressure puts undue stress on pipe joints and fittings, increasing the risk of leaks and even bursts. It’s recommended that you install a water pressure regulator and test the pressure on a regular basis to ensure it’s within the acceptable range.

Improper Installation

One of the common causes of home plumbing leaks is poor workmanship. When pipes are not fitted properly, joints can loosen, seals can fail, and pipes can break under normal pressure. Laying pipes incorrectly can cause huge problems in the long run. This is why pipe installation should be left to an experienced plumber. DIY plumbing may seem like a cost-saving strategy, but it can prove to be costly in the long run. If you’re experiencing frequent plumbing problems, there’s a good chance that your plumbing system has been installed incorrectly. We recommend you reach out to a local plumber in Adams Township, PA for a comprehensive inspection.

Contact Neighborhood Plumbing for Leak Detection and Pipe Repair

Plumbing leaks can wreak havoc on the structural integrity of your home and increase your water bills. If you notice an unexplained increase in your water bills, water puddles outside your home, or water stains on walls, call the experts at Neighborhood Plumbing for leak detection. Our plumbers have the skills, knowledge, and advanced tools to identify even the most elusive leaks and make repairs.