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Leaking Pipes
Traditionally, this problem has always been the domain of the plumber. During the winter months, burst pipes are a common occurrence; however, leaks can occur for a variety of other reasons.
Click here for information about what causes copper pipes to leak and what can be done.
Example 1: pin-hole leak
Water Pipe Leak
A pinhole leak in a copper water pipe resulted in ceiling damage. Thankfully, the drywall was unfinished, so structural damage was minimal.
Source of the Leak
We are seeing more of this type deterioration. In the past, we usually attributed this sort of deterioration to sloppy workmanship; however, water quality is now the typical culprit.
Completed Repair
For all rigid copper repairs ASTM B 88 Type L, hard temper copper is recommended; the more expensive, thicker wall tubing.
Example 2: Pin-Hole Leak
Another pin-hole leak, likely caused by a deteriorated water heater. For this repair, a copper reducing tee and several feet of connecting tubing are used. The customer tried to stop the leak by wrapping the joint with electrical tape.
Example 3: Burst Hose
A hack plumber installed this water heater. Instead of selecting the correct length braided hose, the plumber looped the tubing; kinking it in the process. After a couple years, the hose burst, spewing water on the ceiling of the closet. The proper repair involved shortening the copper supply and distribution lines, and using properly sized braided hose lines.
Example 4: Underground Leak
This waterline failed underground next to the foundation wall. There was no pipe sleeve installed, and the pipe was out of alignment with the foundation penetration. Eventually, the pipe cracked. The repair consisted of uncovering the pipe section, cutting out the failed section, and then installing a proper pipe sleeve. Code requires these sleeves to be 2 pipe diameters larger than the pipe itself, and the penetration and space around the pipe must be sealed.
