Water leaks are more common than most people imagine. The plumbing in your home, which you use daily, is a complex system of pipes and connections. It’s a maze. Within such a maze, there is a lot of room for error. Sadly, most of your plumbing is hidden behind the walls or under your beautiful hardwood floor. It’s here that most water damage occurs. When your pipes spring a leak, the damage is often severe and widespread.
It’s safe to say that a water leak can cost you big time. The moment you notice the telltale signs of a leak, which we’ll go over shortly, call for prompt plumbing leak detection and repair. You won’t be sorry you did!
Surprising Costs of Water Leaks
We all know that a plumbing leak will waste water, which in turn will waste your money each month. After all, the water utility company doesn’t care how the water is used, only that you pay for the full amount spent in your household.
However, it’s important to realize that a water leak can have far more surprising costs and long-lasting repercussions. For instance, even a minor water leak can lead to mold growth. If left untreated, a leak will damage the structure of your home. If behind a wall, the burst pipe will moisten drywall and produce noticeable wet spots. Now, right there, we have property damage. That’s already a costly mess. Even worse, property damage like this allows mold a gateway into your home. Over time, the moisture will allow black mold to flourish and spread.
Next, we have the costs associated with plumbing repairs. Obviously, a water leak is a plumbing emergency. You need to hire an experienced, certified plumber to come in, remove the drywall, and begin fixing the pipe in question. It’s an expensive process.
Preventing Water Leaks in Your Home
The best, most efficient way to prevent a water leak in your home is through preventative maintenance. When we say maintenance, we mean for everything – your plumbing, appliances, and fixtures. Anything that uses water, like your refrigerator or dishwasher, will require occasional service.
For most, we recommend scheduling maintenance at least once per year – at the minimum – for the best results. Then, during the winter, make sure you schedule frozen pipe prevention services to ensure the low temperatures don’t cause a pipe to burst.
Now, it’s impossible to monitor your home 24/7 for signs of water leaks. A lot of security companies, however, are now offering leak detection equipment. Such a system may be a good investment if you’re worried about water damage and can’t always be home.
If you find a water leak in your home, contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain for immediate leak detection and repair services. Our certified plumbers will be at your door quickly to help.
Photo by Have a nice day Photo at Shutterstock
