There’s nothing more frustrating for homeowners than discovering water damage. At the root of many water damage cases? Plumbing malfunctions. From tiny leaks to overflowing toilets, even minor plumbing issues can blow up into overwhelming challenges if ignored. Tackling these problems early can spare you the headache of costly repairs and keep your home safe, dry, and stress-free. Let’s dive in deeper and uncover the most common plumbing issues that may be working against you, how to prevent them, and how Gateway Restoration can assist you with water restoration Chandler homeowners may be in need of.
What Are the Most Common Plumbing Malfunctions that Cause Water Damage?
At the heart of every major water disaster, there is always a hidden leak somewhere. Plumbing malfunctions, being one of the leading causes of water damage in homes, are likely to strike your home at one point.
- Leaking Pipes: A leaking pipe might seem minor at first, but it can cause major issues over time. Pipes usually develop leaks due to their age, joint failure, or simple corrosion over time. Even a small drip can result in mold growth, water-stained walls, and structural damage if ignored.
- Burst Pipes: The main reasons behind burst pipes are corrosion and high water pressure. Over time, corrosion weakens pipes, while high water pressure can strain them to the breaking point, requiring urgent repairs.
- Damaged Pipes: Pipes can suffer from wear and tear over time, becoming brittle or cracked. Construction accidents or tree root infiltration can also damage underground pipes, resulting in leaks or blockage in water flow.
- Kitchen Sink Leak: When water starts dripping under your sink, it’s most likely due to worn-out seals or loose connections. Leaks under the sink can damage cabinets, floors, and other areas. Puddles or dampness are the main warning signs of water damage in your kitchen.
- Toilet Overflow or Leak: A clogged toilet or faulty plumbing in your bathroom can result in overflows or leaks. If there’s water pooling around the toilet base, there could be a problem with the wax seal or pipe connection.
- Bathroom Sink Leak: Bathroom sinks can also develop leaks from drain pipes or water supply connections. As these leaks are often hidden behind cabinets, they are harder water damage signs to spot, making your bathroom a high-risk area for mold growth or structural damage.
- Bathtub/Shower Leak: Leaking bathtubs and showers are often caused by cracks in the caulking or grout, allowing water to seep into the walls or floors. This type of hidden damage can result in rot, mold, as well as expensive repairs.
Plumbing Malfunctions Red Flags: Signs to Watch Out For
Plumbing malfunctions can disrupt your entire space if you don’t catch the signs on time. Be on the lookout for these red flags:
- Low water pressure: A sudden dip in water pressure could be a red flag for a leak or a clog hiding in your pipes.
- Unusual sounds: Gurgling, banging, or whistling noises in your pipes may signal air pockets, blockages, or pipe damage.
- Unexplained water stains: Those mysterious water spots on your walls or ceilings? They’re often a clue that a hidden plumbing leak is silently causing damage.
- Musty odors: A damp, musty smell is a common indicator of water damage caused by leaks.
- Increased water bills: A spike in your water bill without apparent reason may mean you have a hidden leak somewhere in your property.
Putting a Stop to Leaks: Keep Your Plumbing in Top Shape
Regular plumbing maintenance can go a long way in preventing water damage. Here are some tips to keep your plumbing in top shape:
- Inspect pipes regularly: Check exposed pipes for signs of wear, leaks, or corrosion.
- Insulate pipes: During colder months, wrap pipes with insulation to prevent bursts from cold.
- Fix small issues immediately: Don’t ignore minor leaks or drips, as they can lead to larger problems down the road.
- Clean drains regularly: Remove debris and buildup from drains to avoid blockages.
- Check seals and caulking: Inspect and reapply caulking in showers, tubs, and sinks to prevent water seepage.
- Schedule professional inspections: Have a professional inspect your system at least once a year to avoid any surprises from malfunctioning plumbing.
Gateway Restoration at Your Service: How Can We Help?
If faulty plumbing has turned your space upside down, Gateway Restoration is here to assist. With almost a decade of serving the Chandler, AZ area with expert water damage restoration, our team has a solution to your every problem. We excel in handling water damage caused by plumbing failures, from leaks and overflows to burst pipes. We use advanced equipment to extract water, dry affected areas, and repair any damage, ensuring your home is restored to its original condition, if not better!
Call Gateway Restoration for Expert Water Damage Restoration
Keep water damage away from your property! If you suspect water damage or have experienced a plumbing emergency, contact Gateway Restoration at (480) 990-4142 or fill out the form on our website for a free estimate. Our skilled team is ready to provide fast, reliable water damage restoration services in Chandler, AZ. Let our professionals take care of your home!
