The Triple Threat Of Plumbing Leaks

Having any sort of plumbing leak in your home can be a nuisance, but if it's not a heavy leak, it may be something that you're inclined to ignore. Or perhaps, you think you might have a leak but don't know where it's coming from or how to stop it. If this is the case, you should know that what seems like a minor leak could become a much bigger problem if you don't get help for it soon. Here are the three major risks that you're up against when you have a leak.

Water Wasted

The first, and most obvious, problem is the fact that you're losing water regularly. It may not seem like a small leak could waste much water, but the reality is, the leak is running twenty-four hours a day. Even a few drops of water per minute can really add up over the course of an entire day. And if you've had this leak for days, weeks, or even months or more, then you're definitely spending too much on water that you're not even actually using yourself. If you don't want to waste money and a valuable resource that could be put to better use somewhere else, then it's time to get that leak checked out.

Home Damage

Another potential problem that could be happening right now is damage to your home. Leaks often have more than one origin point, and if it's a leak that's happening somewhere in a wall, under a sink, toilet, or tub, then there's a strong likelihood that your home is being damaged by the flowing water. This is especially common when a home has wood floors hidden under linoleum or tile. As the water continuously pools out underneath the surface of the linoleum or tile, it can start causing the wood to break down and weaken even without you seeing it.

Mold

Another big problem that you could be potentially facing is the development of mold or mildew. These substances are dangerous for health. You should avoid touching mold and mildew whenever possible, but the reality is, even breathing in the air around these substances can be dangerous for you.

Unfortunately, water leaks are one of the leading ways that mold and mildew develop inside a home. Once the moisture has accumulated, it gives mold or mildew spores an opportunity to grow, flourish, and reproduce. Once this process has begun, it often requires the replacement of building materials that are acting as a breeding ground for the mold. Getting rid of mold once it's developed can be time-consuming and expensive, so keeping it from happening by tackling leaks as soon as possible is ideal.

For more information about handling leaks, contact a local plumbing company, like Belsito Plumbing.