If you have a leaking pipe, it’s important to patch it up as soon as possible. Otherwise, the leak could cause water damage to your home and raise your water bill. However, sometimes you cannot get a plumber to your home immediately. In this case, it’s important to know pipe patching until the plumber arrives.
Prepping the Patch
Before you patch anything, turn off the valve connecting to the pipe where the leak is coming from. After turning off the valve, run the faucet to remove any excess water. Make sure to dry the area to the best of your ability. Lastly, ensure that any rust or limescale is cleaned and scrubbed off after everything is dry. Use a wire brush to remove anything that shouldn’t be there.
From here, you might be able to inspect and fix the problem yourself. The leak could be caused by a loose joint or a seal that’s not flush. Inspect the area and see if anything looks loose. Tighten anything that can tighten and open the water valve again. Place a container or bucket underneath the leak and leave it for a few minutes. If you return to the area and the container and pipe is dry, you fixed it! If there’s water leaking again, follow the steps to drain and dry the area of water.
What You’ll Need
Before you start a patch, you’ll need the right tools. Make sure to have pipe repair tape, putty, utility knife, gloves, and some abrasive material like sandpaper. Also, because you’re dealing with water, make sure to have towels and buckets available to clean up or catch water.
Pipe Tape or Clamp
There are a few different ways that you can patch a pipe. One option is to use pipe tape, which is designed to adhere to wet surfaces. This type of tape is available at most hardware stores. Another option is to use a pipe clamp, a device you can attach to the pipe to create a seal. Pipe clamps are also available at most hardware stores.
Once you have your materials, you’ll need to turn off the water to the affected pipe. Then, dry off the pipe as much as possible. If there is still water dripping from the pipe, you can use a sponge or cloth to soak it up.
Next, apply the pipe tape or pipe clamp according to the instructions on the package. Make sure the seal is tight so that no water can leak.
Finally, turn the water back on and check for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the pipe tape or clamp until the leak stops.
If you have a small leak, pipe tape or a pipe clamp should be able to fix it temporarily until you can call a plumber. However, if you have a larger leak or the pipe is damaged, you will need to call a plumber to repair it.
Pipe Putty
This is a clay-like substance that is found at any hardware store. It molds quickly to the shape of your pipe and can be used to fill small gaps or cracks. Once it’s in place, this putty will harden and provide a temporary fix for your problem.
Start by cleaning the area around the leaky pipe. This will help the putty to adhere better. Then, apply the putty to the leaky area, using your fingers to mold it into place. Apply a generous amount to ensure the leak is fully covered.
Allow the putty to harden for at least an hour before turning the water back on. It will give the putty time to fully set and provide a seal that will last until you can get a permanent fix in place or until a plumber can arrive.
Epoxy Putty
This option can be used as a quick pipe patch fix before calling a professional. Epoxy putty is a pliable material that comes in two parts (resin and hardener) which are mixed together to form a malleable substance. This can then be used to fill the gap or hole in the pipe and will set hard within minutes. Once set, it will provide a watertight seal that will last for several hours or days, depending on the repair size.
Once you have mixed the epoxy putty, press it into the hole or gap in the pipe, using your fingers to mold it into place. If there is any excess putty, you can cut it away with a knife. Leave the putty to set for at least 30 minutes before turning the water back on.
If you have a larger hole or leak, you may need to use multiple pieces of epoxy putty to patch up the problem. In this case, it is best to wait for each layer to set before adding the next to create a stronger repair.
If you have a leaky pipe, don’t wait until it becomes a major problem. Patch it up with epoxy putty and call Certified Plumbing of Brevard to give you a more permanent fix.
Replacing the Pipe
Sometimes a patch isn’t enough, and you need to replace the damaged pipe, but a plumber can’t get to you in time. This is a more difficult process, but if done with the right tools and a little know-how, you can get it done.
First, you’ll need to shut off the water to the pipe that needs replacing. Once the water is off, you can remove the damaged pipe by cutting it away from the rest of the piping. Next, you’ll need to measure the length of pipe you’ll need to replace the damaged section.
Once you have the new pipe, you’ll need to connect it to the rest of the piping. It can be done with fittings and pipe glue. Finally, turn the water back on and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, your pipe is fixed! If there are leaks, you’ll need to call a plumber.
Warning
If you’re using epoxy, putty, or a metal clamp for a pipe that you get drinking water from, make sure the epoxy and putty is safe for drinking. Some pipe patching materials can create toxic water. Make sure to read the warning labels before buying anything.
Pipe patching can be a quick and easy way to fix a pipe before calling a plumber. This will patch the pipe until a plumber can fix it permanently. It is also a good way to prevent more significant problems from occurring. By pipe patching, you can avoid replacing your entire pipe, which can be expensive—or even fixing or repairing water damage on your floor that could eventually lead to mold.
If you have a leak in your pipe, it is crucial to call a plumber to come and fix it as soon as possible. Pipe patching can save you money and time in the short run. But hiring a plumber to fix the leak will save you in the long run.
