Plumbing Under Sinks
Inside the cabinets positioned under sinks are plumbing pipes. Some pipes are for hot and cold water supply, some are for discharging waste, and all can leak. The plumbing lines under sinks are common areas where water damage can originate.
Clogs
Clogged drain pipes can reduce or completely block the flow of waste, and if the clog is severe enough, it can cause the wastewater to back up and become pressurized. This added pressure forces pipe joints and connections to loosen, and weakened joints lead to leaks.
Supply Lines
Supply lines are designed to be under continuous pressure, so water will be immediately available when a tap is opened. Unfortunately, this constant pressure places a strain on pipes and connections and can cause excess wear and tear, leading to leaks. If a line should fail, a continuous stream of water will exit the pipe and collect on the cabinet base or, if undetected for a longer time, flood the floor. Flooding causes damage such as soaked carpets, warped flooring, and saturation of substructures and can lead to mold growth which seriously threatens health.
Corrosion
Corrosion can also cause pipe leaks under sinks. Heavily corroded pipes can lead to excessive internal pressure and, if neglected long enough, can completely shut down water delivery to the sink.
Solutions
A visual inspection of the plumbing under the sink is recommended, and even the smallest leaks must be addressed immediately. When consulted for this type of leak, we inspect the shutoff valves to ensure they are operational. We then turn the water off and tighten loose connections or replace the section of pipe that may be leaking.
If corrosion is due to hard water, we suggest installing a water softener to minimize the damage from the hard water minerals. A softener allows water to flow through a tank containing negatively charged resin beads. As the hard water with its positively charged ions passes, the resin pulls the hardness minerals out, leaving less damaging softened water.
Not all issues with the plumbing below sinks can be avoided, but experience has taught us that enrolling in a yearly maintenance program helps to identify issues early so they can be addressed before they turn into a crisis.
Toilet Troubles
Toilets are likely to be the most used plumbing fixture in the home, so it is no wonder they have issues leading to water damage. Clogged toilets, faulty supply lines, and blocked vents can cause toilets to leak and overflow. Here we will look at common issues associated with toilet leaks.
Supply Lines
Similar to plumbing pipes found underneath sinks, toilets also have a water supply line to bring water to the toilet tank for flushing waste out of the toilet bowl. These lines are often made of braided steel since they are flexible and easy to install. Plumbing lines must be inspected for wear and tear to avoid the possibility of water damage due to leaks.
Clogged Drain Line Or Trap
All toilets have a built-in trap that connects the toilet bowl to the waste pipe. Some toilet traps are S-shaped, and some are P-shaped, but they both serve the same purpose: to make a water seal in the drain pipe so smelly sewer gases do not enter the living space.
Blockages can occur in the trap or the drain line for several reasons, such as
- Too Much Toilet Paper or Paper That Is Too Plush
- Children’s Toys Combined With Curiosity
- Feminine Hygiene Products, Cotton Balls, and Dental Floss
- Diapers And Wet Wipes
Vent Clogs
All plumbing relies on airflow in the system. Without airflow, water cannot travel properly through drainage pipes which leads to gurgling pipes, slow draining appliances and plumbing fixtures, or backups, causing wastewater to reverse direction and flood living spaces. Sudden sewer smells inside a home can also indicate a malfunctioning air vent.
Plumbing vents supply airflow and can lose their ability to let fresh air in when they become blocked due to animal nests, falling leaves, or tree debris. The result of a blocked air vent is, among other disasters, a toilet that overflows when flushed. An overflowing toilet will cause an unsightly mess and water damage to the subfloor.
Solutions
Supply lines leading to the toilet must be proactively replaced every five years to avoid leaking. The shutoff valve also needs to be inspected to ensure the water can be turned off if an emergency should arise.
Clogged toilets occur in every home mostly due to improper flushing habits. If the toilet is frequently clogged, we need to come out to take a look. It may be something simple but a toilet that repeatedly clogs may be a sign of a sewer line issue, and that is a serious plumbing problem requiring immediate attention.
Enrollment in a yearly plumbing inspection will include examining the vent pipe for blockages to ensure adequate air is being drawn into the plumbing system.
Laundry Room Leaks
The laundry room, especially those located on the second floor, is likely the room that generates the highest number of insurance claims for water damage due to the sheer amount of water that travels through that room. Again, inlet hoses are possible culprits, as are drain pipes, laundry sinks, and shutoff valves.
Inlet Hoses
Inlet hoses supply hot and cold water to the washing machine. These lines are under constant pressure which is why they can burst. Inspecting inlet hoses is a chore every homeowner should do, catching leaks before they become a plumbing emergency. A burst pipe can spill gallons of water onto the surrounding floor and can even ruin walls and ceilings if the laundry is located on the second floor.
Older inlet hoses were made of rubber or a plastic material, but newer hoses are made of braided steel which is more durable and will last longer.
Drain Pipes
As wastewater leaves the washing machine, it travels down the drain pipe and out of the house. If drain pipes are not appropriately secured, they will vibrate and become unstable, leading to potential flooding. Also, drains can become clogged with dirt and debris and block the flow of wastewater that can flood and damage your laundry area.
Laundry Sinks
Some washing machines expel wastewater into a drain pipe behind the washer, and some empty into a laundry tub. Leaving a soaking piece of clothing in the tub while the washer empties can cause flooding since the drain will be blocked and unable to empty. Keeping all items out of the laundry sink when the washer is in use is essential.
Shutoff Valves
Shutoff valves are installed on water inlet lines as a safety measure should something go wrong with the hoses. These too are under constant pressure and are prone to leaking, especially if not used regularly. Homeowners must monitor shutoff valves and call for professional help if leaks appear.
Solutions
An overall visual inspection of the laundry room should be made periodically, and the supply lines immediately be replaced with braided steel. Remember to record the replacement date and set a notification to replace these every five years, regardless of their condition. This extra expense far outweighs the potential damage a broken hose can deliver.
We can install an easy-to-reach shutoff valve that can be opened when running the washer and closed when the washer is not in use. This will provide peace of mind that even if a hose is about to burst, only a limited amount of water will flow out. We can check aerators, drain lines, and all connections to the washer and may be able to install a large pan with a drainpipe under the washer to catch errant water should disaster strike.
Looking To Avoid Plumbing Issues Leading To Water Damage?
Facing a plumbing problem that causes water damage to a home and possible health hazards to its inhabitants is likely to be a goal of most homeowners. We offer ongoing yearly inspections along with standard plumbing services to keep your plumbing pipes, fixtures, and appliances in good working order.
We believe a well-educated customer is our best customer because they understand the importance of proactive maintenance and prompt response to minor plumbing problems. Together we can team up to keep homes and families safe and comfortable and maximize the life expectancy of plumbing systems. Call today to schedule an appointment!
