But how do plumbers find leaks? Plumbers use moisture meters and determine the area of the wall with the highest moisture levels. Sometimes, leaks are located using infrared cameras, which point out the coolest (and wettest) areas behind the walls.
Many stud finders have a setting for detecting live wires. A small magnet can help locate metal pipes or wires. Move the magnet along the wall to see if it sticks to any hidden metal. If you suspect there might be plumbing behind the wall, a moisture meter can help identify areas of moisture that may indicate leaks.
For the most precise leak detection, plumbers use video pipe inspection equipment. These are small cameras mounted on long flexible fiber optic cables. Plumbers can insert these in faucets and other plumbing outlets to detect leaks.
Once your plumbers find the location of the leak, they'll get to work fixing it. They may need to cut into drywall to repair the issue. It can be as simple as replacing a fitting or worn-out pipe or repairing a hole or crack. In some cases, parts of your plumbing system may need to be replaced.
A standard homeowners insurance policy typically covers some costs associated with water leaks. Coverage is limited to sudden accidental events, such as an abrupt plumbing-related water leak.
On average, pipe leak repairs cost $500, though prices can run between $250 and $850 depending on the type and location of the leak and the type of pipe.
Thermal Imaging Cameras
They detect temperature variations that indicate the presence of leaks, making this technology particularly useful for finding hidden leaks. Endoscopic cameras also provide valuable visual information, allowing for the inspection of pipes and fittings.
An electric stud finder detects a ferrous object—a black pipe—in our test wall. Magnetic stud finders are good to use for tasks like hanging pictures and bathroom mirrors. Some electric stud finders also identify metal pipes and electrical wires.
Metal detectors These types of detectors help detect the metal pipes used in the pipeline system. It also helps in detecting the foil covering on the wiring and water pipes for insulation purposes. Most of these detectors not only detect the exact location of the pipe but also calculate the depth of it in the wall.
Wall scanners and digital detectors represent the cutting edge in home diagnostic tools. These devices, typically featuring screen displays, project a visual map of what lies behind the veil of your wall. Besides showing the skeletal stud structure, they can accurately locate plumbing and electrical conduits.
Over time, bricks can crack, and mortar can erode, creating pathways for water to enter. Pay special attention to any visible cracks, gaps, or crumbling mortar. Gutter and Downspout Inspection: Faulty gutters and downspouts can direct water towards the wall instead of away from the property.
One of the tell-tale signs of a water leak coming from a shower valve behind the wall is water stains. If you have an upstairs bathroom, you may notice dried water stains on the ceiling below the shower. Most times shower valve leaks behind the wall are very slow.
Thermal imaging cameras, or heat scanners, can detect hidden leaks in hot water pipes behind walls, floors, or other obstructions. Using infrared imaging, these cameras can identify issues that aren't visibly obvious, such as excessive moisture or temperature variations.
CONTACT A PLUMBING PROFESSIONAL
Some leaks are easier to repair than others. For tougher jobs, it's important to consult a plumbing professional to ensure that things are fixed correctly, the first time.
If you have painted your walls, then you'll most likely notice the paint buckling and ripping. The wall could also develop a bubble-like shape and sag downwards even if you used wallpaper. As the leak increases, the walls will start to bulge outwards and will eventually fall off.
Under most standard home insurance policies, if water damage occurs suddenly or accidentally from a source inside your home, such as a busted pipe, it will likely be covered by your homeowners insurance. If the water comes from outside your home, it will not be covered by your standard policy.
The wall needs to be cut open to determine the exact location of the leak, and the damaged sections need replacement. Then, the wall needs patching, sanding, priming, and painting. A professional contractor is your best bet if you have plaster or the leak is behind tile or brick.
Your plumber will use moisture meters or infrared cameras to pinpoint the leak's location in your walls. From there, they may cut into your wall to get to the problem areas. Commonly, leaks can be fixed by repairing holes or cracks in pipes. In some cases, you might need your pipes or fittings replaced.
If the plumbing leak is tucked away in your walls and unknown to you, insurance may be able to step in to cover some water damage repairs. But if water damage results from repeated seepage that occurred over a period of weeks, months, or years, it may very well be denied.
It does not take long to fix if the pipe is located in an open spot like the kitchen sink. Such jobs last about 30 minutes to a few hours. However, pipes situated underground or in the drywalls require more time to fix.