Leaky pipes can cause all sorts of issues, from high water bills to mould and damp. Spotting the signs early can save money and prevent further damage, so let’s investigate what to look out for.
Damp Patches
Both external and internal walls can show signs of damp from a leaky pipe. Patches may feel wet to the touch and not dry out, even in warm weather.
Damp patches can also appear on floors and this needs immediate attention to prevent weakening of foundations. Roofs can also show telltale signs of roof issues or leakage from a pipe from a water tank in the loft. Roof issues should only be obvious during bad weather, while the likes of leaky copper pipe connectors in the loft or other problems will be constant.
Mould and Muskiness
A musky smell and/or mould can indicate leaks in need of repairs with products from pipe merchants such as https://watkinspowis.co.uk/products/copper-pipe-fittings-and-press-systems/ or help from a qualified plumber.
Mould can appear and spread in just a day and can exacerbate conditions such as asthma, as explained on the Asthma and Lung UK website This means it’s important to tackle leaks quickly.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure may mean a leak in an external pipe that connects from the mains supply. Talk to neighbours if you think that this might be an issue and then contact your water authority. If it’s just your property, check for grass covering drains or damp patches around your property which could indicate external pipe issues.
High Water Bills
Contact a plumber if your water meter is ticking when no water is in use as this could indicate a leak.
What to do next
What you do if you suspect a leak will very much depend on you. If you have the knowledge and expertise, then you may want to tackle the problem yourself. Hidden pipes can be difficult to deal with, however, and professional plumbers may be the easiest and most cost-effective option.
