There are several common causes of leaky pipes. These include corrosion, intruding tree roots, and shifting foundations. In addition, some industrial rubber seals can degrade over time. To avoid these problems, you should inspect your pipes regularly. If you find that they are leaking, contact an plumber immediately.
Corrosion
Corrosion is a problem that can lead to a leaky pipe in your home. The condition is caused by some factors, including high oxygen and pH levels in your water. Also, corrosion can result from sand and sediment in your water supply. Water corroded by corrosion is usually brown. It may also have a metallic smell.
Corrosion damages the pipe’s metal structure. Over time, the corrosion process can lead to severe leaks and burst pipes. The rate at which corrosion occurs depends on the pipes’ age and water quality.
Intruding Tree Roots
One of the most common causes of leaky pipes is intruding tree roots. Tree roots can enter the pipes in many ways, including through cracks or openings. This can cause significant problems such as clogging drains and reduced water pressure. The worst cases may require and Albuquerque plumber to perform comprehensive plumbing repair. Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent tree root invasion.
The best way to prevent tree root damage is to protect the pipes that lead to your house. You can get a protective pipe sleeve or even replace the pipes if damaged. Professionals can advise you on the best solution based on the damage’s extent and the roots’ location. Root problems can also be prevented by choosing modern materials like PVC and copper sulfate.
Shifts In The Foundation
The soil beneath your home moves because of differential settlement and gravity. This movement can cause your foundation to shift. Frequent water leaks from pipes can also cause distances in your foundation. Another common cause is the excessive planting of plants near the foundation. If the plants grow too close to your home, they can increase the pressure on the soil and deteriorate the foundation.
While a licensed plumber can help fix an immediate problem, foundation repair is necessary to prevent permanent damage to your home’s foundation. Luckily, there are several solutions available to fix shifting foundations. First, you can call a plumber to come out and perform foundation repair. A licensed plumber can fix cracks and perform a temporary fix until the foundation is repaired.
Industrial Rubber Seals Degrade
The degrading process of industrial rubber seals can be caused by various factors, including exposure to sunlight, heat, and chemicals. Exposure to sunlight or heat can cause the rubber to degrade, which is especially harmful to rubber o-rings and seals. Exposure to these conditions can also damage the rubber’s mechanical properties. Fortunately, there are several ways to avoid the deterioration of industrial rubber seals.
The process of seal degradation is accelerated when the seal material is exposed to excessive temperatures. During these conditions, the seal material hardens and begins cracking. As a result, the surface of the seal may appear cracked, pitted, or flat.
Rapid Temperature Fluctuations
Rapid temperature changes can cause water pipes to crack and burst. Extreme temperature changes cause the pipe’s walls to expand and contract rapidly, causing leaks and cracks. During extreme temperature changes, it’s essential to monitor the temperature in your home to prevent your pipes from freezing or bursting. If you’re not careful, you could pay thousands of dollars for a plumbing repair or other expenses resulting from a disastrous leak.
Leaky pipes can be frustrating and expensive to fix, but the good news is that they don’t have to be a big problem if you know how to spot them. Once you know the common causes of leaks, you can take steps to prevent them from happening again.
