So often, it’s the littlest of things that can cause the biggest problems. Consider leaking pipes, for example. There are many reasons why a pipe might leak, such as physical damage to the pipes or loose connections. There are many ways that even a small leak can wreak serious damage to your home in general. Following are just some of the dire consequences a dripping pipe in your plumbing system may pose.
Floor Damage
Because of gravity, water will always find its way to the ground. So, when a pipe leaks, the floor bears the brunt of the damage. In the case of tiled floors, for instance, the tiles may loosen from the moisture. If your floors consist of hardwoods, the material might become discolored or even warped when exposed to water. As you might expect, replacing your floor can be quite expensive, with experts pegging it at around $1,000-$1,500.
Slip-and-Fall Hazard
Did you know that falling injuries account for about eight million emergency room visits per year? When your floor is wet, as from a leaking pipe, the chances of you or someone else being injured from a slip or fall spikes considerably. This risk is especially high in the bathroom or kitchen where floors often consist of tiles, which become extra slippery when wet.
Risk of Fires and Electrocution
There are some things in life that simply don’t mix, chief among them water and electricity. When water contacts the circuitry, it can cause an appliance to spark and potentially create a flame that starts a fire. Even in the absence of a flame, your home’s inhabitants risk electrocution from water-soaked circuitry leading to appliances and other electronics around the home. Because it can short out your appliances, they must then be replaced. Your insurance may or may not cover such instances. You, therefore, put your finances at risk by not attending to a leak in time.
Mold Infestation
Besides potential damage to your home and the risk of electrocution, a leaking pipe can wreak consequences more gradually in terms of your health. Leaks in pipes often occur in dark, out-of-reach, or out-of-sight places, which are ideal spots for mold infestations. Inhaling the spores from these fungi can lead to allergic reactions or aggravate conditions such as asthma. Ridding your home of this menace can require great expense as can treating the illnesses caused by mold.
Unless you possess experience in plumbing, specifically repairing a leak, this is something best left to a pro. If you suspect leaking pipes in your plumbing, be sure to contact a Saskatoon plumbing contractor immediately.
Sources:
What’s the Potential Cost of a Plumbing Leak?, AngiesList.com
Damage Caused by Water Leaks, TheBalance.com
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