Finding the Right Solution for Your Water Leak Repair Needs
Despite diligent financial planning, there is never a convenient time to have to pay for water leak repairs. Even the most diligent budgeters don’t plan for emergency repair costs of their homes. As a result, many homeowners attempt to repair water leaks by themselves in order to save on the cost of hiring a plumber.
While the thought of having to pay a plumber to make a repair may seem expensive and stressful, often homeowners find that it is cheaper, in the long run, to have a professional perform repairs. There are several factors to take into account that most people don’t consider when deciding if doing a job yourself will be cheaper than paying a professional.
The most important is time. Most plumbing companies have emergency service and well-established supply chains. This means that they can respond to your needs quickly and have parts readily available.
Can a Plumbing Sealant or Repair Tape Help?
There are several products available on the market that are advertised to stop leaks. They come in the form of tapes or viscous liquids that supposedly seal holes and cracks in pipes.
One thing they don’t advertise is that they are to be used only as a temporary repair and are not designed to hold up against high water pressure for long periods.
Silicone-based tapes are designed to wrap around a pipe at the point of perforation. Silicone tape will seal around itself even in wet conditions. It is designed to take some water pressure on a temporary basis. The downside is that it can be difficult to apply properly in tight spaces and it is only usable on pipes where the damage is visible and small.
Plumbing putties and pipe sealants may be useful for creating temporary fixes in drains lines. They are not designed to hold up to any water pressure. Furthermore, if you have a leak, it is best that you determine why the leak happened in the first place. Leaks can be an indicator of corrosion, abrasion or extensive internal pipe damage. Temporarily plugging the hole is not solving the problem.
DIY Plumbing Risks
Deciding to work on your own plumbing carries with it certain risks. Before deciding to "DIY" a repair, ask yourself:- Can this repair be performed safely?
- Are the necessary tools and knowledge to carry out the repair in place?
- Are you certain you won’t cause further damage to the plumbing system?
- Are you voiding any warranties?
- Can these actions result in flooding or destruction of the home?
- Are you fixing the root problem or simply putting a bandage on a larger problem?
How the Pros Complete Water Leak Repair
If you can’t answer all of the above questions with confidence, you may need to call a specialist. Water leak specialists have knowledge and technology to fix your problem quickly and correctly.
Plumbers have special cameras to look inside of pipes to diagnose and locate problems. They also have special microphones that pick up vibrations of leaking water below the slab of your home.
Water leaks should be repaired as soon as they are found. Moisture invites mold growth and mold presents a dangerous health hazard. Plumbers can quickly fix leaks and help you determine if more extensive damage has occurred.
About Shamrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning Inc
Shamrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning Inc is a local plumbing contractor that has been providing plumbing services in Orlando, FL since 2003. Touting the latest technology for leak detection, they can quickly locate and repair any leaks that may occur on your property. They also offer free estimates for residential and commercial service.