A leak is one of the most common yet stressful issues that homeowners encounter. Although some leaks are easily noticed and can be fixed quickly, others tend to be hidden under floors, walls and ceilings. So, if you suspect you have a plumbing leak but are not sure, here is a list of telltale signs:
Growth of Mold or Mildew
The presence of mold and mildew on your walls, ceiling or floors is one of the most common telltale signs of hidden leaks. A leaking pipe will provide moisture, the perfect environment for mold and mildew to survive and flourish. The two pose serious health concerns for you and your family. They may cause respiratory illnesses and trigger allergies. Thus, if detected, instead of merely cleaning the surface, property owners should look for the source of a home water leak and fix it immediately.
Stale Water With Bad Odor
After a pipe leak goes unnoticed for some time, it begins to accumulate. Over time, this accumulated water starts to go stale, producing a bad smell. Alternatively, the odor may be coming from growing mold or mildew. Therefore, if you smell dampness or staleness on your surfaces when cleaning, it is a sign that you are dealing with a broken pipe and need to call a professional for leak repair immediately.
Damaged Surfaces
Water leaks are a primary cause of damaged surfaces, including walls, ceilings and floors. If you notice that your wall paint or wallpaper is warped or cracking, it is a sign that there is a water leak. Additionally, if water is trapped between the wall and the paint or wallpaper, it breaks the bonds, leading to blistering and peeling. In addition, a plumbing leak will cause staining and deforming in walls. As water comes into contact with drywall, it softens and bubbles. Therefore, a deformed wall is a sign that there is a leak.
On the other hand, if you find your bathroom or kitchen floor staining and cracking, you could be dealing with a leak. Also, if you have a burst pipe, you may notice tiles beginning to loosen due to trapped moisture. Ceilings that are warping and staining will tell you that there is a water leak as well.
Increased Water Bill
If there is a persistent pipe leak, you will notice your water bills are spiking. Even small and negligible leaks can result in significant water loss, translating to escalating water charges. But even if you suspect a plumbing leak, you don’t have to wait for the bill for confirmation. You can always check your water meter. All you have to do is ensure that all taps are closed for at least 30 minutes. If the meter still reads activity, it might be time for you to call a professional plumber.
Sitting on a leak can be disastrous and can result in extensive damage. Thus, if you suspect a plumbing leak, you should have it checked and repaired immediately. The aforementioned signs will easily tell you if you need to call in a plumber.