The tough thing about hidden leaks is, well, they’re hidden! This means they can do a lot of damage, since it may be days or even weeks until you realize the problem is even occurring. The pipes tucked away in the various areas of your home, like the basement, inside a cabinet under the sink, or behind walls, tend to hide their problems well.
Fortunately, there are signs you can watch out and listen for. Being aware of these indicators could be the difference between a minor repair from our professional plumbers or an emergency service call to our team as well as carpenters to help fix your drywall and flooring after a leak has gone on for too long. Read on to learn what these signs are!
Cracks in Your Foundation
If you live in an aging home, it’s natural to see some cracks in the foundation, particularly as the home settles throughout the years. But don’t just assume that’s what these cracks are from! Keep a close eye on them and take note if they’re growing or widening.
Undetected water leaks can cause the structural foundation of your living space to weaken, which is what leads to cracks due to unbalanced pressure.
Increased Water Bills
When you get your monthly water bill, you know what to expect, right? If you’ve been using reasonable amounts of water in the last few months, yet have excessively higher bills than you’ve become used to, it’s a sign you have a leak. The longer you let this leak go undetected, the more your water bills will rise.
Water Damage
When a leak goes unnoticed, it’ll naturally lead to water damage. If you start noticing stains on your floor, ceiling, or drywall, it can very well be a sign of water damage. The same goes for warped walls, doors, bubbling surfaces on the flooring or warped floorboards.
Mold or Mildew Growth
Another symptom of water leaks going on for too long is bacterial growth–that is, the development of mold or mildew. This is not only unsightly but it can be unhealthy as well, making even the healthiest member of your household suffer from allergy or other upper respiratory problems.
The Sound of Running Water
Have you ever heard water running even though you have no tabs on, and no plumbing appliances on? You might chalk it up to a neighbor’s outdoor sprinkler system running, or perhaps think you’re mistaken and that’s not running water you hear. Trust your instincts!
When you hear water running even though it shouldn’t be, it’s a very good chance that it’s leaking from somewhere it shouldn’t be.
Should you notice any of the above-mentioned signs or suspect you have a leak for any other reason, please don’t hesitate to give our team a call. We have the equipment and the know-how to not only detect exactly where the leak is coming from, but to adequately repair it so you won’t have a problem from that pipe again!
For expert Glenview, IL plumbing service, installations, or maintenance contact Reliance Plumbing Sewer & Drainage, Inc. Our knowledgeable plumbers serve the North Shore and Northwest Chicago suburbs. Rely on Reliance!