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Why Are My Pipes Leaking?

Jun 17, 2022

We often take the plumbing in our homes for granted, that is until something goes wrong. There is nothing worse than leaking pipes, especially if they are leaking dirty water inside your home. And why does it always seem to happen at the most inopportune moment?

We are often called out to leaking pipes in homes and businesses around the Lismore area. While most of these leaks are small, they are nevertheless frustrating.

So in this blog, we are going to look at the 6 main causes of pipe leaks and how to prevent them. Most leaks are preventable if you know what to look for.

1. Corroded Pipes

The water pipes in your home are most likely made from copper, which corrodes over time. The typical lifespan of copper pipes is 70 to 80 years, so homes built between 1930 - 1950 that haven't had their plumbing replaced are more likely to experience leaks.

There is not much you can do in this scenario except replace your worn-out pipes. Get in touch with us today to arrange a FREE quote. Several options are available these days such as PVC piping, which is much easier and cheaper to install than copper.

2. High Water Pressure

Mains water pressure in Australia is around 500 kPa. Your plumbing system is designed to withstand this pressure, but sometimes the water pressure can rise, which puts extra pressure on seals and gaskets.

Prolonged increases in water pressure will cause the gaskets to fail and water to leak out. This will most likely be a small leak at first but it should be repaired as quickly as possible to prevent further damage.

3. Blocked Drains

A blocked drain is one of the most common causes of water leaks both inside and outside the home. Drains can become blocked for several reasons but the most common is flushing unsuitable items down the toilet.

You can attempt to clear the blockage yourself with a drain cleaner. But if this doesn't work, always call a professional plumber. We have the correct equipment to assess the leak and clear the blockage without causing further damage.

4. Leaking Seals

Most seals and gaskets are made from rubber which degrades over time, especially if they are allowed to dry out. That is why homes in arid areas that regularly experience droughts may experience seal leakage more frequently.

You can reduce the risk of leaking seals by only turning their water off when necessary. This will ensure that water remains in the pipes, helping to keep the seals well lubricated.

5. Tree Roots

Tree roots are a major cause of pipe damage in Australian homes. Tree roots naturally want to seek out water, so they make a beeline for your water pipes. Eventually, they will break into the pipe causing flooding.

If you have a tree growing close to water pipes, it may be wise to consult an arborist to see what can be done about it. When planting new trees, always be mindful of where your water pipes run and plant the tree at least 5m away from them.

6. Incorrect Installation

Water and gas pipes should always be installed by a professional plumber. DIYers tend to overtighten seals and joints, which increases pressure on the seal. This causes them to fail much sooner than would otherwise be expected.

So if you suspect your plumbing was laid incorrectly, it’s a good idea to get your installation checked out by a professional plumber. They will be able to identify potential issues and fix them before they cause any significant damage.

Got A Leak In Lismore? We’re Here To Help

Do you have a water leak? Don't leave it any longer than you have to. Water leaks don’t get better with time and the longer you leave it, the more expensive it will be to repair. Give us a call today and we’ll send one of our team around to get you sorted.

We have been supporting homes and businesses in Lismore and the surrounding area for more than 10 years, so you can rely on us to get the job done without fuss. Complete the form here or give us a call on 0402 311 821 for a FREE quote.