Leaky pipes might not seem like a big deal at first, but they can cause major damage if left alone. Water leaks can lead to mold, ruin floors and walls, and even make your home unsafe. In Hamilton, pipes can start leaking because they’re old, worn out, or damaged from everyday use. Knowing why leaks happen, what could go wrong if you ignore them, and how to fix them can help you avoid expensive repairs.
Why Do Pipes Leak?
There are several reasons why pipes in your home might start leaking:
- Old Pipes: Many homes in Hamilton have older pipes that wear down over time, leading to cracks and leaks.
- Cold Weather: When it gets really cold, water inside pipes can freeze, expand, and cause the pipes to crack.
- High Water Pressure: Too much water pressure can put stress on pipes, creating weak spots that eventually start leaking.
- Clogs and Blockages: If drains get clogged, the extra pressure can lead to leaks or even burst pipes.
- Poor Installation: If pipes weren’t installed properly or cheap materials were used, they may start leaking sooner than expected.
- Tree Roots: Roots from trees and plants can grow into underground pipes, causing cracks and blockages.
What Happens If You Ignore a Leak?
A small leak might not seem like a big deal, but it can cause serious problems:
- Health Risks from Mold: Leaks create damp areas where mold can grow. Mold spores can trigger allergies, asthma, and breathing problems, especially in children, older adults, and people with weak immune systems. Being around mold for a long time can also cause headaches, itchy skin, and stuffy noses.
- Damage to Your Home: Water can weaken floors, walls, and even the foundation of your house. If leaks are left untreated, they can cause wood to rot, drywall to crumble, and concrete to crack. Fixing these problems can be extremely expensive.
- Higher Water Bills: Even a slow leak can waste a lot of water, which means you’ll end up paying more on your water bill every month.
How to Tell If You Have a Leak
It’s important to catch leaks early to prevent damage. Look for these signs:
- Your water bill suddenly goes up for no reason.
- You notice wet or discolored spots on walls, floors, or ceilings.
- There’s a musty smell or visible mold in your home.
- You hear water dripping even when all the taps are off.
- Your sinks and showers have low water pressure.
What to Do If You Have a Leak
If you think you have a leak, don’t wait to get it fixed. Here’s what you can do:
- Look for the Leak: Check under sinks, near toilets, and around exposed pipes for signs of moisture or dripping water.
- Check Your Water Meter: Turn off all the water in your home and see if your meter is still running. If it is, you may have a hidden leak.
- Call a Plumber: A professional can quickly find and fix the problem before it gets worse.
- Replace Old Pipes: If your home has old plumbing, replacing pipes now can prevent bigger problems in the future.
- Get a Drain Camera Inspection: If you have frequent drain leaks, a plumber can use a camera to check for hidden cracks or blockages.
Need a Plumber in Hamilton? Arscott Plumbing and Heating Inc Can Help!
At Arscott Plumbing and Heating Inc, we specialize in finding and fixing leaking pipes in Hamilton homes. Whether you have a small drip or a major leak, our expert team is ready to help keep your plumbing system in top shape.
Don’t let a small leak turn into a big problem—call us today for an inspection and repairs!