Patching a Leaking Water Pipe – Village Plumbing
One of the most stressful situations that you can experience as a homeowner is having your metal pipes leak. If a leak is left unaddressed, it can cause serious damage to your home which will require expensive repairs. Unfortunately, when a metal pipe starts leaking, it will need to be replaced.
?However, if you’re not able to replace your leaking pipe right away, it is possible for you to temporarily patch the leak to preserve your home and give yourself more time to schedule your replacement. Learn some tips for patching a leaking water pipe and information about why you need to consult a plumbing professional to handle repairs.
PreparationLike any important home improvement job, your first step in patching your leaking pipe should be preparation. Neglecting necessary preparation steps can lead to a failed patch and water leaking into your home.
The first thing you will need to do before patching your pipe is to shut off the water to the leaking pipe. After you’ve closed the shutoff valve, run your faucet until any excess water above the leak has been removed. Next you need to clear the leaking area of any moisture or contamination. Wipe away water with a clean cloth and scrub away any rust or lime with steel wool. Finally, if the leak is in a pipe join, tighten the joint so your seal will be more complete.
Different Patching MethodsThere are multiple methods you could use to patch your leaking pipe, some of them relatively simple and some advanced. Choosing the right method for you depends on the extent of your leak and your plumbing skill level.
The quickest way to patch a pipe is to use water pipe tape. Water pipe tape contains an epoxy resin that will be activated by moisture. You will dunk the tape in water, wrap it firmly around your pipe to fully cover the leak and then rub in the epoxy to create your seal.
Another simple method for patching a pipe is to use water pipe epoxy, also called plumber’s epoxy. With this method, you will cut a piece of epoxy that is the same size as your leak, fill the leak with the epoxy and then allow it to curate before turning your water back on.
Finally, if you have more advance plumbing abilities, you could choose to use a pipe patch kit. When you use a pipe patch kit, you will have to smooth the surface of the leak and then will securely attach a piece of rubber or neoprene over the leak with a hose clamp.
Get Help Patching a Leaking Water PipeWhile all of the previously mentioned patching techniques can be effective, they should only be used as short term solutions. After patching a leaking water pipe, you need to hire the professionals at Village Plumbing, LLC to help you with a replacement.
The Village Plumbing team understands how important it is to have a fully functional plumbing system, and we can replace your patched water pipe quickly and effectively. Offering residential plumbing service to customers in Las Vegas and Henderson, Village Plumbing is ready to work with you. Contact us today.
