Water leaks are considered one of those issues that are quite subtle yet disastrous. If you leave it unaddressed, chances are, a small leak will turn into a major issue, causing water damage to your residence or even mould growth in some cases. Regardless of how small or big the leak is, it is important to take action quickly to avoid making matters worse.
It is true that at some point, you will have to have water leaks. Often, it is just a matter of time. If you have not faced such an issue before, you won’t have the knowledge of how to deal with it. Although you can hire a company that provides plumbing services in Melbourne, knowing the best way to fix water leaks is still important. Here is how to fix water leaks in your home.
1. Identify the Source
Begin the procedure by locating the source of the water leak. Carefully check the pipes under the sink and do the same with the hoses behind the appliances. It is worth noting that, in many cases, the source of the leak is not obvious since water is known to travel along the path of minimal resistance. You will likely need to look away from the water damage location. A great way to find the source of the leak is to simply pour water into several parts of your residence.
Do this in a controlled manner. Now, see if the leak starts to get worse. It will give you a perfect idea of where the water is coming from. However, remember that this can be a time-consuming process, so prepare accordingly. Finally, if you cannot find the leak’s source, get help from a professional plumber.
2. Ensure Water Supply is Turned Off
Now, turn off the water supply. Doing so can help you avoid causing further damage. Many residences do have a primary water shutoff valve that you can turn off to stop the flow of water. It is important that you find this valve before any emergency situation takes place so that you know where it is. But, if it is not a possibility to turn off the water, it is best recommended to switch off the power supply before getting help from a professional plumber. Hiring professionals is also ideal if you are dealing with a problem like a clogged stormwater drain.
3. Quickly Dry the Area
After you have found out the source of the leak and have turned off the water supply, get rid of the standing water. Next, dry the affected area immediately. There is the option of using fans, towels, and dehumidifiers, as they will help you dry the area quickly. It is worth noting that drying the area as soon as possible will reduce the chances of mould growth and ensure that there is no damage done to your possessions. You may need to utilise some equipment, like drying fans, water extractors, etc., to adequately dry the affected area.
4. Evaluate the Damage
The next step in your DIY plumbing procedure is to assess the damage so that you can properly address it. Start with examining floors, furniture, walls, etc. for water damage. You should look for mould growth, signs of discolouration, and other similar signs of water damage. Document the procedure by taking photos, as that will help you make an insurance claim if required later on.
5. Fix the Leak
After you have properly dried the area, it is ideal to make any repairs. If you are dealing with a more minor problem, like a tiny leak in the faucet or pipe, fixing it will be easier, and you will be able to do it yourself. But, if the problem is major and you think that you won’t be able to fix the problem, it might be better to hire professionals for the job. If the leak is coming from your home’s roof, you will likely require more than just one professional help. This is because you will need the help of a roofer to repair the roof and other professionals to repair fixtures, interior walls, and furniture. Hiring professionals is the best thing you can do to fix the leaks.
Wrapping Up
Water leaks are not an uncommon problem. Many homeowners experience it at least a few times. This is why knowing how to fix this issue is highly important. Follow the tips mentioned in this article to fix water leaks in your home.
