Do you notice a constant dripping of water from your faucet? Although it might seem like a simple leak, it could be a sign that your pipes are experiencing something more serious. When left unchecked, leaky pipes can result in worse problems in the future. To understand how a simple plumbing problem can immensely affect your comfort and safety, here are some of the most common effects of leaky pipes:
Structural Damage
Most pipes in your home are located underneath your floorboards or above the ceiling. When leaks occur, the water can cause the wood in some structural components of your home to warp and create strange lumps under your carpet or bare wood floors. If not repaired immediately, it can deteriorate and rot over time, which could be costly.
If the leak is overhead, it can weaken your drywall and framing materials. This can cause your ceiling to collapse. To prevent damages and potential injury, hire a plumbing professional to check and repair your leaky pipes.
Cosmetic Damage
As a homeowner, you want your property to look beautiful and presentable all the time. When the pipes that run behind your walls are leaking, the water seeping through can cause your paint and wallpaper to peel or chip. It can also damage other surfaces, such as laminated plywood. This damage can decrease the value of your home when you plan to sell it in the future.
Poor Water Quality
Faulty pipes don’t just cause problems to your property’s structure and appearance. It can also result in water contamination. Some studies suggest harmful contaminants can enter your drinking water through leaky pipes. When one section of the pipe is in bad condition, the water surrounding it can get sucked into the pipeline and mixed into your water supply due to pressure differential.
If you’re worried about using untreated water that could contain harmful bacteria or chemicals, make sure to enlist the help of professional plumbers. They can assess and fix the problem accordingly.
Hazardous Mold and Mildew Growth
Even the tiniest leaks can create damp spots or standing water, resulting in mold and mildew growth. Not only are they ugly to look at, but they also have adverse effects on your health. Mold alone causes various symptoms like nasal congestion, wheezing, coughing, and throat irritation.
If you live with the elderly, children, or those with compromised immune systems, it’s best to fix leaky pipes quickly. Exposure to mold and mildew can trigger symptoms and illnesses.
Flooding
One of the worst things that could happen if you leave a damaged pipe unaddressed is flooding. When a single pipe bursts, water would come streaming through your home, soaking your appliances, furniture, and other belongings. Fixing water damage can be a costly endeavor, so make sure to address your plumbing problem as early as possible.
Excess Water Consumption
If you’re conserving water, leaky pipes are your biggest enemy. When your faucet drips at least once per minute, it will consume an additional 34 gallons of water every year. Getting the pipes in your home fixed can reduce your water consumption and lower your bill significantly.
Entrust Your Plumbing to Professionals
For leaky faucets and other plumbing issues, turn to us at Benjamin Plumbing in Fitchburg, WI! We have over 56 years of experience putting our customers’ needs above anything else. Our skilled contractors can remedy any problem you might have. If you need professional plumbing repair services, contact us today!