The Problem with Water Leaks

Experiencing a water leak is something business owners dread and conjures up all kinds of images from huge holes being dug up within their premises to flooding, property damage and large financial expense.

Leaking water can penetrate structural cavities and create pockets of saturation leading to significant problems and if left undetected over a long period of time, serious structural issues can occur in the materials.

As with major fire incidents, escape of water can cause significant upheaval particularly to housing associations as there will be a need to find alternative accommodation for tenants quickly.

What Can Cause a Leak?

Thankfully, most water leaks are subtle in how they manifest themselves, but there are so many causes of water leaks that they can be difficult to identify and locate:

  • Corrosion – ageing pipes
  • Broken, leaky pipe joints
  • High pressure
  • Rust – common in old, galvanised steel pipes
  • Ground movement
  • Poorly fitted windows
  • Blocked waste systems
  • Central Heating Systems
  • Defective Guttering
  • Change in temperature – causing pipes to crack and burst

If your business has sprung a major leak, it will blindingly obvious you have a real problem.

Early Warning Signs that you have a Leak

Many early signs of leaks include:

  • Odours
  • Areas of mould
  • Condensation and moisture
  • Cracking, peeling and splitting
  • Moisture on floors and carpets
  • Musty smells
  • Dirt or air in the water
  • Unexplained increasing water bill
  • Sounds of running water
  • Puddling or pooling
  • Low pressure

Water leaks can cause costly damage to buildings mainly because pipes are hidden away under floorboards, in ceilings or in walls and they often go unnoticed - until they have caused extensive damage.

Once the location of the leak has been identified, gaining access to the pipes or defective components to repair them may involve further expense of excavations, ripping up floors or pulling plaster off the walls.

Knowing how to detect leaks early (whether minor or major) may save you from expensive repairs and damage.

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