Has Your Residence Developed An Undetected Leak?
One of the biggest risks to residential plumbing is leaks. As such, when homeowners realise one of their pipes has sprung a leak, they tend to seek plumbing repairs as soon as they can. However, it is also not uncommon to find that a large number of homeowners may not be aware that they have a leak in the first place. Not knowing can be extremely hazardous since by the time that you find out, extensive water damage will have happened to your home. It is, therefore, important for everyone to know the warning signs of a leak before it manifests as a severe plumbing emergency. So how can you discern if your residence has developed an undetected leak?
A spike in your water bills
As a homeowner, it is essential to monitor your water bills, as one of the first signs of an undetected leak would be a spontaneous spike in your costs. Some people make the assumption that the increase is due to rates fluctuating. Although this may be true, more often than not is comes about when your home's water consumption has increased without your knowledge. Therefore, to be on the safe side, it is best that any unusual spikes should alert you to call a plumber to give your pipes a thorough inspection.
Onset of ceiling stains
Another symptom of compromised pipes is if your ceiling starts developing strange stains. These stains will not happen overnight. Therefore, it is prudent for homeowners to be vigilant about the appearance of their ceilings. When you have an undetected leak, gradual water damage happens as the water seeps into your walls. If the ceiling stain is small and light coloured, chances are the leak is relatively new and will not have gotten sufficient time to wreak havoc. Alternatively, if the ceiling stain is large and quite dark in colour, you may have to prepare yourself to tackle structural damage too.
Growth of mould
By the time mould is growing in your home, the leak will have gone undetected for a significant amount of time. Mould does not only compromise the structure of your residence, but it also poses a potential health risk, as the spores will be circulated in your home. Moreover, the mould will also make your home smell musty and old, no matter how well your ventilate it. Since mould needs an adequate amount of moisture to thrive, it would be essential to call a plumber to find the source of the leak.
For more information, contact companies like P1 Plumbing & Electrical.
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