So, you think you have a leak in the wall, but you aren’t sure where. You know it’s causing damage, but where do you start?
One of the most common causes of water damage in the home is faulty plumbing. However, most homeowners assume that they will be able to see it from a faucet or under a sink.
Unfortunately, there are times when plumbing will get ruined inside walls and there won’t be any immediate signs of trouble.
Call Hedlund: (800) 433-5863
What causes water leaks inside a wall?
There are a number of things that can cause this:
- Weak or old plumbing that can’t withstand the weight of the flooring or walls pressing down on it.
- Pipes that freeze and burst.
- External forces causing punctures (renovations or even hanging a picture).
- Hard water can corrode metallic pipes over time and create a leak.
Signs You Have a Leak in Your Wall
Wet spots on the wall
This is the most obvious tell-tale sign of a water leak. Oh, if they could all be this easy. However, the source of the leak may not be right near where the wet spot is. Water does like to travel.
Mold formation
The second most common sign that there is a water leak inside your wall is mold growth in the corners of the walls. Moisture will promote mold growth, so if you see mold, you probably have a leak.
Peeling Paint
If the leak is on a painted wall and has been left for a while, the paint may start to bubble and peel. Most interior paint in latex, which will react this way.
Your Water Bill is Higher
One of the quickest and easiest ways to tell if there’s a leak in your house is by checking water bills. If you notice an increase, but no visible leaks anywhere around the home you might have a leak in your wall.
How Leaks Are Detected in a Wall
The best thing to do is contact a professional plumber. We have all the right tools that will cause the least amount of damage. You don’t want to just start taking a sledgehammer to your walls.
- Moisture Meter. We will use a moisture meter to scan the wall and figure out where the most water is accumulating. Generally, the highest concentration of the water will be closest to the location of the leak.
- Infra-red Camera. We might also use an infra-red camera to locate the cold and leaking spot. The point where the leaking is coming from will be colder than the surrounding area by a few degrees.
- Cutting into the wall. This is typically the last resort unless the homeowner beat us to it. We try everything we can to defect a leak without necessarily having to tear open any part of the home structure. However, sometimes we have to carefully open up the walls, locate the leak and repair it.
Looking for plumbing repair or service?
Call (800) HEDLUND > (800) 433-5863
About Hedlund Plumbing
The solution to all your plumbing repair, installation, and maintenance needs. Our local Lansing plumbers are fully licensed and insured professionals. We arrive on time in a marked van ready to go with the tools and materials to complete the job. Our commitment to our customers is why we are considered by many to be the top Lansing plumber.
