How To Detect a Hidden Plumbing Leak: 7 Signs to Look For
Splash leaks occur when water seeps through a shower curtain or door. It’s the most prevalent form of bathroom leak, according to plumbers. Although it may seem like a little leak, water seeps into the subfloor where the tub or shower meets the flooring. What happens next will depend on the material of your different rooms.
For example, vinyl or ceramic tiles begin to come free within a short period. On the other hand, Plywood flooring is prone to decay and delamination, necessitating a time-consuming and costly tear-out and repair. These can lead to structural degradation that demands major renovations.
But how can you know when pipes are dripping behind a wall of water gathering under your flooring? To detect little plumbing leaks before they become serious issues, keep an eye out for the following warning signals.
1. Stains on the Walls and Ceilings
Don’t be fooled into thinking that small amounts of water are just condensation from showers. Consider moisture stains on ceilings, walls, and floors. Water droplets can adhere to the surface in moist, cool environments, gradually soaking into the structure.
2. Mold and Dirt Growth
When water is leaking, the humidity in the air increases and promotes the growth of black mold. A musty odor or visible mold growth is a sign of a plumbing leak.
If you can easily wipe away the mold and it returns, you have a hidden plumbing leak. Where there is condensation and standing water, mold can grow.
3. Floor Cracks
Another warning sign is cracking on your floor. If you notice floor cracks, there is a reason. Typically, they happen when the wood has become soaked and dried repeatedly. Cracks may be caused by shifting subflooring.
4. Water Pressure Issues
A loss of water pressure may be one of the earliest signs of a plumbing leak. The piping walls, joints, and fixtures may be eroded and damaged, allowing water to leak out.
5. Your Water Bill Has Increased
If you are getting higher water bills than usual, it’s always a good idea to consult with plumbers to find the cause of water loss. Your water company will usually notify you if you exceed your monthly quota or pay too much for water.
An increase in your water bill, especially if it’s been a few months, may indicate that you may have a plumbing leak. The more water leaking, the higher your water bill will be.
6. The Toilet Is Shaky
If your toilet is shaky, it could be that the floor around it has sunk or the pipes are broken. Take a closer look at the flooring and the sewer line connecting to the toilet.
A toilet that rocks from side to side as you use it may be a leak in the tank. The water level in the toilet tank should be the same.
7. Grass Stays Wet Longer
Water may be leaking from a broken or loose sprinkler system. The leak may not be taking place at your own home, but the individual with the leak may not know about it, and the water is dripping onto your property.
Portions where grass and other plants seem to develop rapidly, should also be given extra care, as should any areas of the yard that appear to be consistently damp. They all point to the possibility of an underground leak in your home or business.
Conclusion
Prevention is the best cure for home plumbing leaks. To ensure they are adequately sealed, check water-using appliances, such as water heaters and dishwashers.
Frozen pipes can burst in cold winter weather. Frozen pipes occur during the winter months when the temperature drops below 40°F.
To determine whether you have a plumbing leak, look for any above signs. Once you’ve decided that you have a plumbing leak, you should contact a plumber to repair it.
Stiles Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing can help you if you need plumbing services in Athens. Our qualified, experienced, and professional plumbers are here to help. Whether you’re a business owner in the Athens area searching for plumbing assistance or a homeowner with a plumbing problem that needs a professional eye, Stiles Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing can help.
