The Most Common Causes of Leaky Pipes

Posted on February 17, 2023 by oozle

Are you a homeowner? If so, then you already know a leaky pipe is something you don’t want to deal with. It can lead to even more damage, health risks, and costly issues, if not taken care of right away. It’s not always easy to determine a leak in your home, but there are a few ways you can determine whether or not it is time to call in a plumber to get the job done. Here are some of the most common causes of leaky pipes.

Fixture Cracks

Fixture cracks come from wear and tears that develop over time. The older the pipe, the more likely a pipe becomes susceptible to cracks. High water temperatures can also cause the fixture to deteriorate and crack. If you notice a leaky pipe, make sure that the pipes are properly installed and tightened. 

Tree Roots

Intruding tree roots can come in contact with water lines and cause moisture to empty out into your yard. If you notice sudden sinkholes or wet patches, this could mean that roots have potentially interfered with your water line.

Broken Pipe Joints

The purpose of a pipe joint is to redirect water in your home and attach your straight pipes together. If a pipe joint breaks, it can cause a variety of problems depending on the location and how bad the damage is. The damage can go unnoticed and cause potential issues to a home’s structure. Here are some ways to determine if any of your pipe joints are leaking:

• Stained or damaged home surfaces
• Mold growth
• Water bills are higher than normal

 It is important to fix a leaking pipe joint right away or call a plumber.

Frozen Pipes

During the winter months, it is important to prepare your pipes for the cold. If a pipe becomes frozen, this can result in a potential pipe burst. There are a few things you can do to prevent your pipes from freezing:

• Leave your water faucets running overnight
• Open cabinet doors at night
• Disconnect hose from outdoor faucet
• Keep your home warm, especially the basement and garage
• Wrap heat tape around your pipes

Frozen pipes may not be as common for Las Vegas homeowners, but it can still happen and it is better to be safe than sorry. 

Improper Installation

The best way to prevent future leaks is by contacting a professional to solve the problem if any repairs to your plumbing system are needed. If you feel your plumbing system may be installed incorrectly, it is best to contact someone who can inspect it.

High Water Pressure

If your water pressure becomes too high, this can result in leaks and cause a pipe to burst. When water pressure becomes too high, the pipes eventually expand more than what they are used to and causes cracks or connections to loosen up. Be sure to monitor your water pressure regularly to avoid any potential damage to your pipes.

Clogged Water Lines

The best way to prevent a clogged water line is by cleaning it out regularly and staying on top of the maintenance. Clogs typically come from debris, mineral build up, and even tree roots. When a water line becomes clogged, this puts extra pressure on the pipe by restricting water flow. The more pressure, the more likely the pipe becomes weak and starts to develop a leak. 

When is it time to Replace Your Pipes?

How old are the pipes in your home? If you have had your pipes for a long time, it might be time to consider replacing them. Keep in mind that replacing pipes when needed can save you a lot of money in the long run. If you wait until it is too late, a leaky pipe could potentially cause far worse damage if it results in a flood or mold. Pipes can normally last 30 years or more, but it’s important to know what type of material your piping is and if it is strong enough. Lead and polybutylene pipes should be replaced right away. 

Here are a few signs that it is about that time to replace your pipes:

• Low water pressure
• Rusty, discolored water
• Home or pipes are older than 30 years
• Strange odors
• Consistent leaks
• Tubing discoloration, stains, or flaking could indicate corrosion
• If the water is brown or yellow, this is telling you that there are signs of decay in your pipes.

Call a local plumber to inspect your pipes annually. It is better to have a professional determine when a replacement is needed.

Contact Your Local Las Vegas Plumber Today!

If you are in need of a pipe replacement or repair, the plumbers at ProServ Las Vegas can get the job done right. We offer high quality services in HVAC, appliance repair, and plumbing to Nevada residents and businesses. We will work with you on any type of repair job, maintenance work, or installation you are looking for. Contact us today for a free quote!