Leaking faucets are a nuisance, but hidden leaks in your plumbing system can be a nightmare. These sneaky leaks, often hidden behind walls or under floors, can waste water, inflate your bills, and even lead to mold growth. If you live in the DMV area, from bustling Washington, DC, and Rockville, MD, to quiet Vienna, VA, knowing the signs of a leaky water pipe can save you time, money, and frustration. Here’s what to look for:
Unexplained Spike in Your Water Bill
This is a classic sign of a hidden leak. Compare your recent water bills to past months. A significant increase without changing your water usage habits can indicate leaky pipes.
Water Stains and Damage
Wet stains or blistering paint on your walls and ceilings, especially near pipes and fixtures, are another sign that you may have a leaky pipe. Peeling wallpaper and flooring damage can also be a sign of a leak. In areas like your basement or crawl space, puddles or damp concrete are a red flag.
Mold Growth
Mold thrives in damp environments. So, if you notice mold spores growing on your walls, ceilings, or around fixtures, or even a musty odor, it could be due to a hidden leak.
Water Puddles
Puddles under your sink or around your washing machine or dishwasher can indicate a leak at the source. However, don’t discount seemingly random puddles on your floor – a leak behind a wall can travel through your foundation and surface in unexpected places. This is why quick leak detection is vital. By spotting and addressing leaks early, you can potentially save thousands of dollars in repair costs and protect your home from extensive water damage.
Other Signs Of Leaky Pipes
- Low water pressure
- Rust or corrosion
- Foundation cracks
- Strange noises in the walls or plumbing system
What Causes Leaky Pipes
The age of your home, rusting or corrosion, or improper installation are all common causes of leaky pipes. Winter weather, especially here in Rockville, MD, and Greater Washington, can also cause pipes to freeze without proper winterization protection. A pipe can burst when the temperature rises, causing one or more pipes to leak. If the pipes burst while you spend your winter vacation in a warmer climate, you may return home to a major flood, depending on where the leak occurred. Understanding these causes can help you take preventive measures and avoid costly repairs.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Leaky Pipe in the DMV
The cost of fixing a leaky pipe depends on how complicated the job is. A simple fix costs around $750, while a leak that requires rerouting pipes could cost $1,500 or more. If the leak is behind a wall, you must repair the drywall. The good news is that JWHI’s skilled handypersons can handle the entire job – from finding and fixing the leak to patching and painting the drywall – saving you time and money. By staying watchful and taking quick action, you can deal with leaky pipes before they cause significant damage to your home.
Who to Call
If you suspect a leak, you have two choices: Call a plumber or a professional handyman with plumbing experience. A plumber may be easier to find but can be very expensive in Greater Washington. Plus, if they must break into a wall to access the pipes, you must often call another professional for the drywall repair. At JW Home Improvement, we have professional handymen who are experienced plumbers. Not only is JWHI a more affordable option, but we also handle any necessary drywall repairs and painting, saving homeowners in the DMV both time and money.
Water Leak Detection & Pipe Repair
Do you have leaky pipes? Leaky pipes can occur either inside or outside your home. Our professional handyman plumbers will pinpoint the leak’s location, potentially saving you from the stress and expense of opening walls to find the leaky pipe.
We are licensed in DC, MD, and VA, so you can trust our professionals to have the requisite skills and professional tools to perform all kinds of work, such as repairing broken tiles, installing surveillance cameras, furniture assembly, and even interior and exterior painting. To get started, call JW Home Improvement at (703) 899-3129, and our team of experts will handle everything for you. You can also contact us online for a free estimate.
