Always be on the Alert for Signs of a Possible Leak

Always Be On the Alert For Signs of a Possible Leak

A leak in your home can be something that goes unnoticed for a long time until signs begin to show through the paint, the rotting the wood, or when it’s time for the bucket brigade. Slow leaks or leaks that occur unnoticed for long periods can also cause mold to grow, adding to the problem by causing an environmental problem and costing you even more in aggravation, time, and money. Always be on the alert for warnings signs of a possible leak. Follow these guidelines and check for signals that will keep your kitchen and bathroom in check and free from leaks.

1.      Fix and Change Worn Parts

Damaged parts are a major cause of leaks and wasted water in a bathroom or kitchen. Look over the following parts regularly, and repair or replace them if they are worn.

·        Inspect the washers in the shower head- Check for water dripping or spraying out from the threaded area of the head.

·        Tub diverters can waste a lot of water. If it is leaking into the tub, it may be time to replace it with a new one.

·        Toilet tanks - Check for any leaks between the tank and bowl. If there is water leaking, tighten the bolts that hold the two together, being careful not to tighten them too much. Also, make sure there is no water leaking between the bowl and floor. You can usually tell this by a wet spot on the floor around the bowl and/or a dark mildew on the floor around the bottom of the bowl usually in the grouted tile joints.

·        Toilet flapper valve – A faulty flapper can waste hundreds of gallons of water. Flappers are simple to replace and can be purchased at your local home improvement store or plumbing supply. Make sure to turn the water supply off and remove the flapper. Put it in a plastic bag and take it with you to match up its’ shape with a new one.

·        Rotted washers and bolts around toilet tanks and an insufficient wax seal can result in a rotted floor. This can go unnoticed for a longtime until one day the floor begins to look a little crooked or uneven. Don’t let this go without further inspection. It’s time to call a professional.

·        Faucet washers – can result in a high water bill and can also ruin and de-laminate mica counter and vanity tops if they go unnoticed. Replacing countertops can run well into a few thousand dollars.

·        Check for leaks at supply lines to toilet bowls, sinks, dishwashers, hot water dispensers and refrigerators. Supply line valves may not be used for some time and once there are turned a seal can be broken and a leak may begin.

·        Check for sediment build-up in faucets and showerheads. These can stifle water pressure. Periodically remove the strainers on you faucets and remove any sediment that may be collecting. In most cases this will drastically improve your water pressure. In areas with hard-water it may be necessary to do this more frequently.

2.      Inspect the Caulking and Grouting

Caulking is very important in preventing a leak and keeping water from infiltrating vulnerable places. Caulking should be somewhat flexible, and not be cracked or blackened with mildew—if it is, don’t just use any caulk, replace it with a tub and tile type silicone based waterproof caulking.

Check the following areas for cracked or missed caulking in need of repair.

·        Around the bottom of the toilet

·        Along wall at the edge of the tub or shower

·        At the inside corners of the tub or shower

·        Between the countertop and backsplash

·        Where the tub meets the shower

·        At the base of the tub or shower along the floor

·        Where the shower door meets the wall and tub or shower base.

·         

3.      Knowing When to Call in the Professionals

There are some things that need to be fixed by professionals in order to avoid future or even more damage. Call a plumber if you find the following problems and feel as though you are in over your head,

·        Leaky or stuck water supply lines and valves

·        Leaking shower heads, or other leaks that you can’t fix

·        Leaks present in the shower pan

·        Trouble with mold or mildew on the walls.

To get your copy of Hector’s book,

What Your Parent’s Never Told You About Owning a Home

Visit www.americashomeimprovementcoach.com and with

your purchase his book you will receive 5 reports on

ü     Selling Your Home In Any Market

ü     Hiring the Right Contractor For You

ü     Staying Within Your Budget

ü     Looking Out For Contractor Scams

ü     What Questions Should You Ask a Potential Contractor