Friday, June 17, 2016

Stop Leak - Fix A Leak - Best Spray Sealant For Leaks

What Causes Pipe Leaks?

There are many factors that can cause water leaks, the most common being a corroded (damaged) pipe. If you are getting brown or discolored water, low water flow, water seeping through the floor boards or carpet, water dripping through the ceilings or anything similar, then there is a high likelihood that you have a water leak!

What causes a pipe to corrode? Apart from age, the older the pipe the greater the chance of corrosion, the water source can be a contributor - depending on the source water has a variety of natural minerals which may not be harmful to human but can contribute to corrosion. The water pressure in the pipe can also be a factor, there are many other factors such as pH, temperature etc.

So now that you have an idea of what causes leaks lets look at how to detect a water leak and some options to stop leaks, fix a leak and to protect against future leaks with spray sealant.


How To Detect A Water Leak?

Method 1: Check the Pressure Relief Valve on the hot water tank - usually these valves are plumbed directly into the drain so any leaks may not be easily noticed.

Method 2: Check the toilet for leaks - remove the top of the tank and listen, any hissing sound means there is a leak somewhere close. If no sound then put some food color into the water in the tank and wait a few minutes, if colored water seeps into the bowl you have a leak - probably through the flapper. It is a good idea to do this with all the toilets in the house.

Method 3: Water meter to the house - shut off the valve by the house then watch the meter, if it is still turning then the leak is between the meter and the house, if this is the case check the area between the meter and the house to see if there are any muddy areas or other signs of excess water.

For more information click here.

How To Fix A Leak?

There are a few do it yourself options to fix a leak including:

  • replacing the section of pipe that has the leak
  • repairing with an external solder
  • coat the inside of the existing pipe with epoxy
You can also go all out and replace all the plumbing in the entire house but this would be a costly option. 

Here is an instructional video from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on how to fix a leak:

 

How To Protect Against Water Leaks?

If you have already experienced a water leak, you know how frustrating and inconvenient it can be in addition to the cost. If you have not experienced a leak then you have been lucky but don't take it for granted!

Protecting your plumbing against water leaks is a smart idea! There are a few spray sealants on the market, most are liquid rubber sealants - here is a review of the best selling brand of water sealant spray.


Leak Ender 2000

This is a rubber sealant in a can that can be used to fix cracks, small holes and leaks. It can be used on most surfaces and because it is in liquid form when sprayed it will seep into the crack or hole for a perfect seal. The spray comes out clean so makes for a mess-free job!


Pros: 
  • Easy to use - aerosol spray
  • Comes out as liquid so seeps into cracks and holes
  • Dries watertight
  • Dries as a strong flexible rubberized coating
  • Not adversely affected by extreme weather
  • Ideal for fixing leaks, also for other projects
  • Can paint when completely dry 
Cons:
  • Good for small jobs, plumber needed for big jobs
  • Larger cracks may need several layers




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