How do plumbers find pipes behind walls?

Author: Georgiana Jenkins DVM  |  Last update: Thursday, May 29, 2025

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.

How to know where pipes are behind walls?

Stud finders equipped with AC detection are indispensable tools for homeowners keen on pinpointing the exact locations of plumbing lines in their walls. The AC detection capability enhances the tool's ability to sense nearby electrical currents, which often run parallel to plumbing routes.

How can we see the pipes behind the wall?

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.

What device is used to find pipes behind walls?

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.

How do plumbers detect leaks behind walls?

A moisture meter is one of the most effective tools for detecting a water leak in a home. This device measures the moisture levels in walls, floors, and ceilings. A normal drywall, concrete, and other materials reading should be less than one percent. Anything higher than that may be a sign of a water leak.

Using every plumbing skill on one job!

How much does it cost to fix a leaking pipe behind a wall?

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.

Does homeowners insurance cover leak in plumbing behind wall?

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.

Is there a stud finder that detects pipes?

Reliability and Consistency: The Jurgen K stud finder uses multi-sensing technology to accurately and quickly find the edges and centers of live AC wires behind metal, studs, joists, pipes, walls, floors and ceilings.

Is the walabot worth it?

Conclusion. If you're serious about your home improvement projects or work professionally in construction, the Walabot DIY 2 is a must-have tool. It provides the level of precision needed to get accurate results without the guesswork.

How do plumbers find pipes?

Sonar/Radar: Plumbers can map water and sewer lines outside using a sonar device. Ground-penetrating radar may also be used. The equipment is rolled along the ground. If a buried pipe is located, it will show on a display.

How to detect pipes behind walls reddit?

Put some tape on a 6mm drill bit at 12mm depth. Only drill that far - it's normally 12.5mm thick (could be 25 if doubled). Have a poke in the hole with a small screwdriver and 'feel' for anything there. Then use Fischer Duopower 6x30mm wall plugs - they will be fine for a mirror.

How do you check for a water pipe leak in the wall?

Here are a few things to look out for:
  1. Persistent Musty Odors. If you notice a musty odor in a specific area of your home, it may be a sign of water leakage. ...
  2. Mold in Unusual Areas. Mold is a common problem that often occurs in areas with high humidity or moisture. ...
  3. Stains on Walls. ...
  4. Buckled Ceilings.

Can a stud finder detect PVC pipes?

There are generally two types of stud finders: magnetic and electronic. Magnetic stud finders use a magnet to detect metal studs and other materials, including pipes, behind a wall. Electronic stud finders are able to sense a wider range of materials behind a wall, including wiring and PVC pipes.

How to know if it's safe to drill into a wall?

“One common rule is to avoid drilling around light switches and sockets, as the electrical wires can go horizontally and vertically around these fixtures,” Williams explains. “You can also get an idea of where wires and pipes run by looking in the attic and basement to see where they go up or down through framing.”

Do stud finders work?

Most stud finders today are highly accurate. However, if you're searching for a stud behind drywall, you can confirm the accuracy of your finding by pounding on the wall with the palm of your hand or a fist. First, pound where the device tells you the stud is located (it should feel solid and make little or no sound).

How do you find pipes in a wall before drilling?

Because none of us has X–ray vision, we recommend using a digital detection device such as the UniversalDetect to locate the pipes. If you're looking for metallic water pipes, for example, select the right mode on the UniversalDetect and move it over the area where you want to drill the hole.

How much does Walabot cost?

Get a smartphone stud-finder: The Walabot In-Wall Imager is just $39 - CNET.

Can I use an iPhone as a stud finder?

It uses the magnetometer to measure the magnetic field when your iPhone is placed near any metal objects. You can quickly detect wood studs hidden under walls, drywall, plasterboard or stucco.

What tool is used to check behind walls?

A stud detector is perfect for locating hidden studs behind walls, ensuring secure installation of shelves, TVs, and more. Meanwhile, a moisture meter helps you monitor dampness in materials like wood or concrete, preventing damage and ensuring proper conditions for the building.

What is the app that lets you see behind walls?

Walabot is a window into your walls, showing you what's hidden from view. Whether you're a contractor or a weekend DIYer, your toolbox isn't complete without Walabot DIY.

Can Walabot see through concrete?

Once installed, it lets you see inside walls made from common building materials including drywall and concrete, penetrating through insulation up to four inches deep. With the Walabot DIY in-hand, there's no doubt about the location of important components such as pipes, electric wires, cables, and studs.

Should I call plumber or insurance first?

Overall, it is best to make sure to call insurance, right after you call the emergency plumber, when dealing with water damage in the home. Acting swiftly to maintain your home and minimize water damage will ensure your claim is best supported.

Can pipes leak behind walls?

A dripping pipe behind your walls causes moisture to build up inside them, potentially soaking your drywall and warping the structure.

Does State Farm cover water damage from leaking pipes?

Typically covered: losses caused by water abruptly leaking from a pipe inside the home, frozen/burst pipe if reasonable care is used to maintain heat in the home, water backing-up through a sewer or drain (with Back-up of Sewer or Drain endorsement) and water damage to your home caused by ice dams.

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