Your home’s plumbing system is one of those things that you can easily take for granted — that is, until something goes wrong. Even though copper water pipes are built to last for years and years, small leaks sometimes do happen. They’re especially common during the cold winter months, when water might freeze and expand within the pipes, causing them to crack or loosen at the joints.
If you notice a leaky pipe, it’s vital to have it fixed as soon as possible in order to prevent further damage to your entire plumbing system. The best solution is to call in a plumber to have it professionally replaced. But if the leak pops up at night or on a weekend when it’s difficult to find a plumber on call, it’s a good idea to be able to install a temporary patch to minimize leaks on your own. Here are a few quick tips and tricks for a do-it-yourself leaky pipe repair.
- First, turn off your water supply. If possible, let the pipe drain out completely and wipe around the affected area so that the pipe is dry and clean.
- Use a screw hose clamp and some sheet rubber to “band-aid” over the leak. These types of hose clamps can be used to temporarily fix damaged pipes in emergency situations. Secure the sheet rubber over the leak and tighten the clamp appropriately. Be sure to use stainless steel clamps to prevent them from rusting onto the pipe.
- You can be creative with your source of sheet rubber. Some hardware stores sell it in packages; otherwise, you can use a cut piece of garden hose or the inner tube of a bicycle, if available.
- Smart homeowners will have emergency hose clamps (in the right size!) on hand before an emergency strikes or a leak occurs. Always be prepared by keeping a few in a safe place.
Remember that these fixes are only temporary solutions for leaky pipes. Although it’s important to know what to do in the event of a leak, always call in a professional plumber as soon as possible to properly repair any leaking or damaged waterways in your home.
