
Don't wait until you need a life raft.
Every leak should be stopped in its tracks ASAP. Even a minor one can cause major headaches. And the longer they go without repair, the more expensive and damaging they become. Here are 3 reasons why leaks in your home should always take top priority.
#1: What You See isn't Always What You've Got
A dripping drain under the bathroom sink makes itself known pretty quickly. But what about a supply line inside the wall or under a toilet? By the time you know that there's a problem, the damage can be widespread. That's one of the biggest reasons why a known leak should never go without repair.
A damp spot on the ceiling might look like a tiny problem that can wait. But in reality, it takes a lot of water to leak through the upstairs bathroom floor and then on through the ceiling below.
The leak might be small but persistent. Or you might have a major leak under the toilet, shower or sink. Even the small indicators of water need attention. That's especially true if the damp spot never really dries.
#2: Sometimes Bad is Very Bad
Some leaks really are minor. They can cause a quarter-size stain on the ceiling or along a baseboard but require only a small repair. But you won't know until it's checked out. A larger leak can lead to mind-boggling problems.
Mold is a major issue with a longstanding leak. There might be a few specks on the drywall, but a huge colony of spores behind it. Structural damage is another possibility. Interior wood isn't treated to resist water. So where damp conditions persist, you might require significant structural repair. In some cases, whole floors require replacement because the entire subsystem is rotted. A spongy floor is a bad sign that water damage has gone too far.
Water and electricity don't mix, at least not with a happy ending. But leaks can cause electrical problems and even electrocution. When a spot appears on a wall or ceiling, just remember its proximity to ceiling and wall electrical fixtures. Don't wait to make that call.
The sooner you call, the better off you and your home will be.
#3: Water Leaks Add Up
In addition to the physical damage to your home, leaky plumbing wastes precious natural resources and drains your bank account. They say that small leaks sink ships. That's because it all adds up over time. And the longer a leak is allowed to exist, the more water and money you lose.
How much? You might be surprised. According to the EPA, a faucet that drips at a rate of one drop per second wastes 3,000 gallons per year. Now imagine a leak that drips at the same rate inside a wall that's gone unchecked for a month. That's 250 gallons of water that's been added to an area where it was never meant to be.
Fortunately, you know a plumber who can find and fix leaks before they cause major headaches. Rodenhiser has helped Massachusetts families in and around the Route 495 / 128 area since 1928. We've got the skills and experience to correct every problem and keep your home safe and healthy.
Don't let a plumbing leak continue to damage your home and put your health at risk. Call Rodenhiser today.