If you're dealing with a water leak, the first step is to turn off the water supply to the leaking pipes and clean the area around the hole that needs to be repaired. Use a metal file to smooth out any sharp edges that may go through the patch. Apply the patch and repair clamp so that they evenly overlap the damaged section of the pipe. Tighten the clamps to seal the leak. Water leaks are usually caused by perforations in the piping system or minor faults in the sealing or other external materials.
Water takes the easiest path to the ground, so it often travels along wall frames. To determine if this is the case, use a moisture meter to check if humidity levels in your home are within normal parameters and an infrared camera to detect leaks behind walls and ceilings. If the problem is not indoor plumbing, move your inspection outside. Check for obstructed gutters, downspouts and compromised sealant, and inspect gaskets for external penetrations such as ventilation grilles, chimneys, windows and doors. Minor repairs may involve cutting through drywall, finding the source of the leak, and replacing damaged sections.
Alternatively, a plumber can put a simple patch over the leak and end it if it is isolated. Rust is another common cause of water leaks. When exposed to water and oxygen, cast iron pipes can rust or deteriorate over time without proper cleaning. It's useful to have at least one pipe repair clamp handy in case a pipe breaks, especially if you live in a climate where pipes are likely to freeze. Depending on how the pipe is located, use a small pipe cutter or a blade on a reciprocating saw. Corrosion can also be an issue with copper pipes.
Copper pipes are supposed to be “corrosion-resistant” but that doesn't mean they're “corrosion-proof”. To determine if your leak is due to faulty plumbing, turn off all faucets and appliances that use water in your home and note the number on your water meter. Threaded galvanized iron pipes are also common in older homes but they are being phased out because mineral deposits tend to clog up over time. Because of pressure, it's usually quite obvious if a pipe is leaking even if it's inside a wall or above the ceiling. If there are no stains or drips on top as evidence, pick up a flashlight and check pipes in your basement or mezzanine.
You have all kinds of pipes running through walls from water pipes, sewer pipes, and even gas connections. Keep in mind that until air in water supply pipes is purged, faucets throughout your house are likely to spill and spit out air and water when used. Of course, if a pipe is leaking you might be able to hear drops of water dripping inside walls. One or both couplings must be of type that does not have “tube stop” so it can slide completely over tubes until replacement part is placed then slide until it's in place on replacement part. They may be able to stop leak but plumbers are ones who can help install new plumbing systems. This pipe although quite new had pinhole leak that sprayed water into wall cavity between wall uprights. Rust, corrosion, pressure and blocked gutters can all cause leaks in pipes behind walls so it's important to inspect them regularly for any signs of damage. If you find yourself dealing with a leaking pipe behind walls don't hesitate to call a professional plumber for help.
They will be able to assess damage and provide best solution for repair. Preventing leaks behind walls requires regular maintenance of your plumbing system. Make sure you check for any signs of corrosion or rust on your pipes regularly and replace any damaged parts as soon as possible. Additionally, make sure you inspect your gutters for any blockages or debris that could cause water damage. Leaking pipes behind walls can be difficult to detect but with regular maintenance and inspections you can prevent them from occurring in the first place. If you do find yourself dealing with a leaky pipe behind walls don't hesitate to call a professional plumber for help.
