If you own your home, you know how important it is to keep it properly maintained. You probably take all the preventative measure to keep your home in tiptop shape. Part of your maintenance routine most likely includes taking care of plumbing issues as soon as they pop up, including those leaky faucets you find. Unfortunately, not all plumbing leaks are as easy to identify, which makes them more likely to cause water damage. Those hidden leaks are the ones you need to worry about. To help you out, here are five signs that you’ve got some leaks that need tending to.
You Feel Moisture on Your Wall
You might not realize this, but you’ve got water pipes running between the walls in your home. You can’t see them, but they’re there. Occasionally, those pipes can start leaking, especially after a winter freeze. If you feel moisture on your walls, there’s a good chance that you’ve got a leaky pipe.
You See a Wet Spot on Your Concrete
In addition to the water pipes that are in your walls, you’ve also got some running under your house. Leaks in those pipes can be just as difficult to find. One way to identify them is to pay attention to your exposed concrete. If you’ve got wet spots in your sidewalks or driveway, that never seem to dry out, you’ve probably got a leak under there.
Your Grass Is Greener in Certain Areas
If you’ve got leaky pipes in your yard, you’re going to start noticing a difference in your lawn. Specifically, you’ll start noticing that certain areas of your grass are greener than other areas. Those green patches are indications that your pipes are leaking in those spots. It’s time to call a professional like those from Jim Dhamer Plumbing and Sewer, Inc.
You Smell a Musty Odor in Your Home
Water spots and wetness aren’t the only telltale signs of leaks. Sometimes a smell with give the leak away, especially if there’s been a problem for a while. Over time, the moisture will cause mold to develop, which will lead to a musty odor in your home. If you’re suddenly greeted by the smell of mold when you come in the house, it’s time to update your plumbing.
Your Water Bill Is Steadily Increasing
Your water bill can also be a good indication that you’ve got some leaks in your outdated plumbing. If you suspect that your pipes are leaking, watch your water usage and your water bill. If the water bill keeps steadily increasing, while your usage is decreasing, it’s time to overhaul your plumbing.
Don’t let your plumbing fall apart around you. If you notice any of the signs described here, it’s time to put an end to the leaks by updating your plumbing.