How To Fix A Leaking Pipe Behind The Wall?

Significant waste and damage can result from water leaks behind walls. It may surprise you that a tiny leak can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water a year. Water leaks can lead to constructive damage and mold growth, in addition to raising your water bill.

One of the main reasons your home wastes water is slow leaks in the pipes. Water leaks behind walls frequently go unnoticed since they are normally silent.

Although fixing it isn’t enjoyable, it is undoubtedly something that can be accomplished with the correct equipment and a little know-how. Also, if you are unable to do it on your own, it could be time to contact a plumbing company.

So stay put since this blog will show you where to look for a water leak in the wall and provide advice on how to stop the leak caused by the damaged pipe.

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How To Check If You Have A Pipe Leak Inside The Wall?

To fix the pipes in the walls - you need to find the leak first -

1. Seek Out Signs Of Water Damage

Look for any obvious evidence of water damage - and it’s the first step in locating a leak. It can be anything such as -

• Musty smell
• Water puddles near walls
• Sagging walls or ceilings
• Peeling or bubbling paint or wallpaper
• Discolored patches on walls or ceilings
• Moist walls or wet spots on floors or ceilings

It’s crucial to remember that a leaky pipe may still exist even if there are no outward symptoms of water damage. To check these kinds of leaks, we have discussed some ways below.

2. Run A Water Meter Test

This is one of the quickest and simplest methods to check for leaks in your plumbing system. All you need to do is look at your water meter while the water is off. Your water meter is usually located in front of your house, next to the sidewalk or curb. Turn off all water sources, including faucets, toilets, and hoses.

Then, you can check to see if any of the dials or numbers on the water meter are moving. If the dial or number goes down, there may be a water leak in your system.

3. Cut Off The Water Supply

Another method you can use to check the water leakage in your home is turning off your home’s water supply. You can turn off the main valve - this will stop water from flowing. The main valve is usually found within the house close to the exterior water meter installation.

Once you cut the water supply, you can check for the leak. All you need to do is - look for obvious indications of water damage - which can be anything as discussed above.

Leaky pipes can also cause the water heater to malfunction - if it is located anywhere near the pipes. In that case, you might have to call water heater repair service.

4. Find The Leak’s Origin

Now that you’ve found the general area of the leak and identified where the moisture is coming from, it’s time to find the exact source. Locating the source can be tricky because the leak’s origin isn’t always next to the visible signs of water damage.

To avoid unnecessary damage to your walls, consider reaching out to local plumbers. They have the tools and expertise to accurately trace the leak and fix it without causing further issues.

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How To Fix A Leaking Pipe Behind The Wall?

Have you ever been unlucky enough to have a pipe behind a wall leak? Well, most modern homes in the Californian region have pipes behind the walls. So, if you think you have a pipe leak within the walls - it’s time to get the leaks fixed, and here’s how you can do it -

Step 1: Cut The Section

First, cut the drywall around the area where you suspect the leak. Make sure to use a saw designed for cutting drywall, and cut it properly to avoid any unnecessary damage. Since you can’t be sure exactly where the pipe is leaking without inspecting it, it’s best to cut a slightly larger section.

This will give you enough space to examine the pipe thoroughly. For a precise and safe job, you might consider reaching out to licensed plumbers who can handle the repair efficiently and minimize damage to your walls.

Step 2: Look For Any Leaks

Once you have carefully cut the wall - it’s time to verify the leakage location. Now, all you have to do is wrap the pipe with an old piece of linen or rag. Wrapping the pipe with a rag reveals a leak when moisture seeps through, indicating water is escaping.

If your pipes are moveable, try moving them around until there’s a visible leak somewhere if you’re having difficulties finding them. If you are unable to find any leak, even if you suspect you have leakage issues, it is time to consult top plumbers.

Step 3: Place A Bucket Under A Leaky Pipe

Now that you have found the leak - place a bucket where the leaking pipe is. This will help you safeguard the area against unexpected floods while repairing the pipes. You are now prepared to go on to the next phase.

Leaks can cause floods in your home. It is a major drainage issue. But worry not - professionals specializing in drain cleaning can help you fix the issues.

Step 4: Cut The Pipe

Now, this is a stage takes a steady touch and a lot of patience. Here’s how you can do it -

• First, turn off the water supply to prevent flooding.
• Use a pipe cutter or hacksaw for a clean cut, making sure it’s precise.
• Smooth the edges with sandpaper to avoid damage during the repair.

For a safe and effective fix, consider reaching out to experienced plumbers. They can handle the job with the right tools and expertise. This ensures the leak is repaired properly without causing further damage to your plumbing system.

Step 5: Allow It To Air Dry

Now dry the pipe and ensure that it is free of water. Soak as much water as you can with a cloth, and for somewhat more difficult-to-reach access points, use paper towels. Here’s how you can dry your pipes -

• Use a Hair Dryer
• Install a Dehumidifier
• Apply Compressed Air
• Use a Wet/Dry Vacuum

Step 6: Clean everything within the Pipe

Next, ensure that the pipe has been thoroughly cleaned. You will have to clean the pipe’s exterior as well as its interior. This step is crucial because, once the pipe is mounted back within a wall, you don’t want any kind of blockage to develop inside of it.

You will also need to address the crack and repair the pipe. Simply melt that section with a blowtorch and add a metal piece. You can repair the pipe in this manner, and it will function as new. If this is not doable at all - call any nearby plumbers, they will help you with the job.

Step 7: Reinstall The Repaired Pipe

Now you have to reinstall the repaired pipe within the wall-mounted water system. To do this, you will need a blowtorch to melt the endpoints of the pipe and join it to both ends where you cut it before.

After you’ve completed it correctly, clean the area surrounding the pipe and look for any leaks. Check for leaks in the pipe by running water through it. If there’s any, immediately call emergency plumbers near you.

Note: Wear safety equipment, such as goggles and gloves, as this phase can be dirty and difficult.

Step 8: Patch up the wall

You must patch up the wall where you fixed it in the final step. You don’t want a hole in the wall anywhere in your home that looks aesthetically unpleasing. You, of course, don’t want your home to look so patchy - so take extra caution when doing it.

Moreover, it’s essential to avoid leaving any gaps or loose ends when mending the wall. These openings can allow unpleasant odors to seep through, potentially dirtying up your entire room. This underscores the importance of being cautious and attentive during the repair process.

Note: Take precautions while fixing the leaky pipes inside the wall. Contact your emergency plumbers Sacramento right away to receive immediate pipe replacement or repairs. If you put off repairs, your house may sustain further damage.

Expert Tips On Prevention Of Leak Pipe

Most future water leaks can be avoided with regular upkeep, thorough cleanings, and pipe and connection updates.

Here are some of the greatest methods for preventing and fixing plumbing leaks so that you may ensure that your pipes won’t leak and will last a long time, saving you money -

• Fit a water softener in
• Stop the rusting of pipes
• Seal the joints and tighten the fittings
• Lower the water pressure in your area
• Get professional plumbing services
• Make an appointment for a qualified inspection

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Takeaway

Although a leaky pipe behind a tiled wall might be somewhat annoying, it is usually simple to fix it. Usually, replacing the leaky part of the pipe is all that is required, and it may be done without taking out any tiles.

But sometimes, the leaks are not that easy to fix. Hence, you need to get them fixed with the help of professional plumbers.

Suspecting Leaky Pipes Behind Your Walls? Contact Preferred Plumbing and Drain For Assistance

Make an appointment with professional plumbers in Sacramento. They help evaluate your plumbing and pipes if you have any concerns! Preferred Plumbing and Drain is always available to assist with whole house pipe replacements, leak detection and repairs, and 24/7 emergency assistance.

Speak with us now and learn how our leak detection and pipe repair services may help you save time and money!