Water leaks can cause a significant amount of damage to your home if left unchecked. That’s why leak detection abilities are so important for homeowners.
As an extra precaution, if you are traveling this summer, turn your water off before you go. If you do have a water leak and it gets worse while you are gone, the damage can be substantial.
Here is some advice on what you can do to detect leaks in your home.
Mold and Structural Damage
Think that a small leak is no big deal? Think again.
When water comes in contact with drywall or flooring, the perfect conditions for mold growth are created.
Mold only takes between 24-48 hours to grow after the initial contact from the water.
Once mold starts to grow, it is hard to stop.
Mold spores pose a clear and present danger to your family’s health.
Don’t take the risk.
Your home’s structure is at risk as well. Beams, framing, and walls can all shift and break down, making your home potentially unsafe.
How to Track Down the Leaks
For more complex leak detection, you need to consult with trained professionals who can use special equipment that lets them listen and look at your pipes.
Generally speaking though, you can source out leaks by using the process of elimination.
Look underneath sinks. Are the joints or pipes moist? Is there moisture or mold inside the cabinetry?
In your basement, do you see rust or leaking water around your water heater? Do you see pooling water near your foundation or on the floor?
Are there wet spots on the ceilings beneath bathrooms (particularly where toilets and tubs are located)? Are connector hoses from washing machines and dishwashers in good repair or are they damaged?
Taking Steps to Prevent Leaks
Essentially, anything that puts stress on your pipes can cause them to crack or break over time. That is why you should take steps to avoid clogs by never putting anything that isn’t liquid down your pipes.
It is a wise move to get pipes cleaned and inspected for damage regularly too. Another major stress on your pipes is high water pressure. Take care to turn it down.