One of the greatest nightmares of every homeowner is finding that one of their plumbing pipes is leaking. It is unfortunate if you discover a leak during the weekend or over the holiday and you don't have an emergency plumber that you can contact immediately. Plumbing leaks can cause water damage to the home's fixtures and lead to significant losses. It is essential to manage the leak as you look for a professional to take care of it.
Here are some simple DIY steps that you can follow to patch up the leaking pipe as you wait for the plumber. You will need the following supplies for the task:
- A dry towel or piece of cloth
- A file or rough sandpaper
- Water pipe epoxy which can be obtained from your local hardware store
Shut off the water
The first thing to do after identifying a leak should be to stop the flow of water to that pipe by closing the main valve. This will prevent further leakage and also allow you to work efficiently on the leaking portion. Once you shut off the valve, open the faucet closest to the leaking pipe to drain the water that's already in the pipe.
Clean the area around the leak
Use a dry towel or piece of cloth to wipe the water on the pipe and the surrounding area. This allows you to have a clean, dry surface to work on. Also, it ensures that the leaking water does not seep into the surfaces or mats and cause more moisture problems in the home. Remove any items such as rugs, cabinets, and appliances around the area to protect them from damage and allow you adequate working space.
Smooth out the pipe
It is essential to prepare the damaged portion of the pipe to allow the epoxy product to adhere properly. A pipe that's been patched up properly can allow water to flow through without leaking. Use a file or sandpaper to smooth out the area and get rid of any rough edges, rust, or sediment on the surface.
Apply the product
Various water pipe epoxy products are available on the market; therefore, you need to read the instructions on the packaging before use. Most products require you to mix and work it before application. Once this is done, use your hands to scoop the product and apply a generous amount on the damaged part of the pipe. Press down the product firmly and ensure that you have covered the entire leak. Leave the product to dry for as long as the manufacturer instructs on the manual.
Make sure that you contact a plumber to come and permanently repair the leaking pipe. However, the epoxy should hold the leak and allow you to turn on the water as you wait for the plumber.