A leaky pipe is one of the most panic-inducing events for a homeowner, especially if you see water dripping everywhere and you have no idea what to do! If left unresolved, a leaky pipe can also be a costly problem as it can waste water and damage surrounding areas.
Even if you call a reliable professional plumber for emergency repairs, it may still take some time before they arrive due to the travel time. So what do you do while you wait for the plumber?
How to Patch a Leaky Pipe
Here are simple steps you can follow to minimize the damage and provide a temporary fix for the leak.
1. Stop the Water Flow
The first thing that you should do if you find a leaky pipe is to stop water from flowing through it. If you can’t find the water supply valve for the pipe that is leaking, you can simply turn off the main shut-off valve of your home. After doing this, turn on the faucet closest to the leaky pipe to drain away the remaining water.
2. Wipe the Leaky Pipe
Before you can apply a patch to your pipe, you need to make sure that it is no longer wet so the patch will stick well. Use a cloth to dry it off and wipe the surrounding areas and furniture affected by the leak to prevent further water damage and prepare the space for the plumber.
3. Ensure that the Joints are Tight
Using an adjustable wrench, tighten the joints and fittings of the leaky pipe. Doing this can help seal the leak strong enough to last until the professional plumber arrives to complete the repair.
4. Prepare the Leaky Pipe
If the surface of the pipe is not smooth enough, the patch won’t stick properly. So use a sandpaper or a metal file to remove some of the rust and tough spots around the leak to prepare the pipe for patching.
5. Apply the Patch
There are different ways to add a patch to a leaky pipe depending on what you have available in your home. You can use epoxy putty to seal the crack or hole in the pipe. You can also use a piece of rubber or neoprene from your garden hose together with some pipe clamps to seal off the leaky spot.
Another effective tool for a temporary fix is duct tape. Simply wrap several layers of the tape around the pipe as tightly as you can.
Hire a Reliable Plumbing Expert
The steps shared in this article are not meant to create a permanent fix for your leaky pipe. You still need a professional plumber who can pinpoint the cause of the issue and perform the necessary repairs.
If you’re looking for a reliable plumber, Rebel Refrigeration is always available for emergency plumbing repairs. With decades of combined industry experience, our team can provide an effective solution that gets it right the first time!
So if you have a leaky pipe, waste no time and get in touch with us right away! Give us a call at (702) 766-9436 or contact us here.