4 Common Leak Repair Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Do you have a leaky home? Learn more about 4 common leak repair mistakes and how to avoid them.

You’re not alone. Leaks are one of the most common home problems and luckily, one that many people can try to fix themselves. As long as you know what you’re doing, small leaks won’t cause any major problems.

But, not everyone does know what they’re doing. A lot of small problems become huge ones because of leak repair mistakes. In this post, we’re going to tell you the most common leak repair mistakes and how to avoid them.

As a leading restoration company in the PNW, we’ve seen what water damage can do to a home. Fix your leaks the right way and save yourself time, stress, and money.

1. Pulling Up Roof Shingles

Leaks in roofs usually cause a lot of concern because there’s the immediate assumption that there’s something happening with or beneath your shingles. An eager DIY’er will be up on the roof checking them for damage, but there’s one thing you absolutely have to avoid.

Never pull up the shingles to examine the damage beneath them. This will almost undoubtedly cause further damage and further leaking. If you feel the need to check your roof for leaks, it’s always better to call a professional.

2. Using Glue to Stop Leaks

Inexperienced DIY plumbers will sometimes take strange measures to stop leaks. One of these is using super glue or crazy glue to fill in a cracked pipe or tile that’s causing a leak.

This isn’t just an inadequate long-term fix, it’s probably not going to work in the short-term either. If you’re going to try and fill in cracks and holes yourself, then use the proper materials. Improper fixes like these, when left unattended, often lead to mold and other contaminants as a result of the water damage.

3. Incorrect Replacement Parts

Getting the right parts when you’re fixing a leaky tap or faucet is really important. Some people have the tendency to take apart a faucet, tighten things up, and put all of the old parts back into place because they fit and it’s easier.

These little nuts and bolts tend to erode over time, so you need to replace them because they could be the root of the problem. When you go into the store, however, you need to bring your faucet with you so you know you’re getting the right thing. If you do this, a hardware store employee will even be able to help you make the right decision.

4. Gaps In the Gutters

Another big source of water damage in homes is related to guttering. We all know how important it is to clean the gutters fairly regularly because lots of leaves, sticks and other debris clog them up and allow water to build up.

Sometimes gutters can also take on significant damage, to the point that they need fixing or replacing. If you’re going to do it yourself, you need to make sure that they’re properly connected so that the water doesn’t fall through the gaps.

Don’t Make Unnecessary Leak Repair Mistakes

Don’t let these simple leak repair mistakes cause expensive water damage in your home. If you’re unsure of what you’re doing, it’s always better to call in a professional to take care of it for you. When water damage does strike, it’s important to get it dealt with quickly and professionally.

At PNW Restoration Services, we can help you with your emergency water damage. Contact us 24/7 and we’ll help keep your home dry, and free of mold and other contaminants.