Having a leak in your home can be extremely frustrating, especially if you're not quite sure where it's coming from. If you can hear a constant drip coming from your bathroom tap, it can be annoying and inconvenient, but at least you know where the problem lies - what happens when you don't even know where your leak is coming from or how to fix it?
You may have received a water bill that is much higher than usual or perhaps you've noticed your bills slowly creeping up over time; either way, something has changed and your water usage has gone up. The cause of this is usually a hidden leak and it's often only the experienced professionals who have the tools, skills and knowledge to locate it. Water is often lost through leaks and cracks in pipes, and since most of the pipework is underground, it's virtually impossible to visually identify the source of a leak.
Leak detection requires special technologies that allow professional leak detectors to precisely determine the location and severity of a pipe leak. It's important to remember that no two leaks are the same; different leaks require different leak detection methods and repairs.
As leak detection specialists, we understand that leak detection methods and water leak repairs can be confusing for some people. After all, how can you tell where a leak is without even seeing it? For your convenience, we've put together a guide to the process of professional water leak repairs from start to finish, including what happens from the moment you suspect you have a leak right through to the completed repairs.
You suspect you have a water leak
First of all, you may be wondering how to work out whether you have a leak or not. There are a few different ways you can work out whether your suspicions are true.
- If you're on a meter, make sure all your appliances (such as the washing machine and dishwasher) and taps are switched off, then find your water meter and do a reading. Make sure you read all of the dials on your meter; small leaks will show on your dials and not numbers. Wait 30 minutes and then take another reading. If the numbers have changed, you've got a leak on your hands.
- If you're not on a meter, inspect your walls for any wet areas or signs of water damage or water leaking from the ceiling. Listen out for noises coming from your plumbing system and keep an eye out on your driveway for recurring wet patches. Low water pressure is also another sign you may have a leak.
How do the leak repair companies detect a water leak?
Whether you're absolutely certain there is a water leak in your property or you're not entirely sure, it's always best to call the professionals. The longer a leak is left, the more expensive your bills become and the more water damage will be caused. Water can cause extensive damage to your property and can be expensive to repair, so it's important to catch a leak as early as possible. Before any specialist equipment is used, your professional leak detector will inspect your property for any obvious signs of a leak, including inspecting irrigation and pool systems and assessing the water meter.
Professional leak detectors will then use the following methods to identify the source of a leak in your property:
Video inspection equipment
Video inspection equipment can be installed in taps and other plumbing outlets to detect leaks. The equipment consists of small cameras mounted along flexible fibre optic cables. These cameras allow the specialist to see the condition of the inside of the pipe, helping them detect a leak that may otherwise be difficult to identify from the outside.
Listening discs
Listening discs can be used to help specialists locate leaks through drywall, cabinets and other furnishings. Utilising sound technology, a listening disc (also known as a ground microphone) is used to amplify the sound of water leaking through headphones when placed against a surface. An experienced, skilled technician can gain a better idea of where a leak is before attempting to access it by listening for the sound of running water underground as it travels through pipes.
Soil probe
Some leaks may run under lawns and gardens. A soil probe is used by specialists to listen for standard pressure or pressured leaks through grass and rocks. When a soil probe gets close to a leak, the sound gets louder, helping plumbers identify the location of a leak. An experienced leak detection specialist will be able to differentiate between different sounds, allowing them to work out the best way to access and repair a leak.
Thermal imaging cameras
To detect leaks in hot water pipes under floorboards, concrete or behind walls, thermal imaging cameras (also known as heat scanners) can be used. Thermology cameras are used to detect and measure thermal energy emitted from an object and can also be used to detect moisture in ceilings, flat roofs, behind walls and under floors.
I have a water leak - now what?
When it comes to making an insurance claim and organising water damage repairs, we recommend choosing a company who can take care of everything for you, like Leak Tracers Direct. Detecting a leak in your property is stressful enough, let alone having to deal with making an insurance claim and finding the right contractor to complete the repair work.
Once a leak has been detected, it's important to make your insurance claim as soon as possible. Each water damage claim is unique and the repairs required will vary from job to job.
- Mould prevention and cleanup. Water damage can lead to mould and damp and this will need to be targeted and repaired as soon as possible. Mould can be caused by a number of different issues; if a room isn't properly ventilated, it can quickly lead to condensation and cause mould. Water damage repairs can prevent damp and clean up any mould in your property.
- Dehumidifiers are used to remove excess moisture from the air which contributes to growing mould and mildew. High-volume dehumidifiers can be used alongside fans to control the air flow, helping to dry out a property as quickly as possible and minimise any water damage caused.
- Water damage restoration services. Sometimes, a big leak will cause a daunting amount of damage - but don't worry, there are companies that can put together a specific recovery plan for you, working to fully restore your home to its former glory. Typically, electrical areas that have been damaged by water are assessed and handled first and then any standing water is eliminated and your belongings and flooring dried out using the equipment discussed above.
Leak Tracers Direct: Emergency Leak Repair Services
Whether your plumber is unable to trace the leak, your insurance company is being unhelpful or you're looking for a reliable one-stop-shop service, the professionals at Leak Tracers Direct are here to help. As one of the leading water leak detection specialists in the UK, we will find your leak, carry out all the work to get to it and if you want us to, we'll agree costs with your insurer to put everything right again.
We understand how stressful it can be when you have a leak in your home which is why our specialists are on hand to resolve your issue as quickly as possible and minimise any damage caused. To learn more about our services, visit our website today.