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Moisture on the walls

How To Find A Water Leak Inside A Wall

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Arriving home from a long day at work and you walk into your home to settle in for the night. While walking towards the kitchen, you look to your left and there is a watermark on your wall that was not there before you left. Immediately, you begin to panic. How to find a water leak inside the wall? The best way is to hire a professional to use a thermal imaging camera, moisture meter and to inspect the area.

Lucky for you, we will discuss all of your options should this occur in your home. Let’s dive into the details.

Causes of a Water Leak Inside a Wall

Pipes

Leaks can come from many areas such as inside the walls due to faulty plumbing or cracks in the pipe. No matter what material is used for your plumbing, damage can occur to the pipes. Some homes might have Pex plumbing and this can damage easily as rodents like it. In colder climates, it does not do well in freezing temperatures.

Also, many older homes will have plumbing issues because they have galvanized or lead pipes.

The reason swimming pools up north are winterized and water is blown out of the pipes prior to sealing them, is to avoid the possibility of the pool pipes bursting underground during the winter months

Polybutylene Pipes

Polybutylene pipes were used in homes from 1978-1995 and are made of plastic, cheap, and not sturdy. They also react to chlorine and cause leaks at the connections. In 1978, builders in the Sun Belt states were using this pipe in homes until 1996. The failure of the pipes wreaked havoc on homes and thus a Class A lawsuit was filed against the manufacturers. In the end, $1 billion was awarded to the plaintiffs.

Roof

Also, consider that a roof might have a leak, and water can get in from above and seep down the wall, causing damage to the wall. Even though the majority of issues come from a plumbing issue, that is not always the main cause. Gutters can also back up and cause water to enter the home. Additionally, there can be problems with the eaves or downspouts clogging so keeping these areas clean and free of debris is important.

The wall looks like it is sweating next to the shower.
The wall looks like it is sweating next to the shower.

What Will The Water Leak Look Like

Noticing that you have a water leak is actually quite easy. There are many ways to tell and some are more easily seen. Let’s review what a water leak would look like.

  • Wet spots on the wall – this will give the appearance that the wall is sweating. An example of this is in the pictures above in which it is leaking water outside of the shower enclosure.
  • Black or brown spots on the wall – this indicates mold or mildew has begun to grow
  • The paint on your walls start to peel and bubble up
  • Your wall is stained and discolored or even warped
  • A dripping sound is heard when water sources are turned off
  • Hot water leaks can cause a hot or warm spot on your floors and walls.
  • Smells of musty scents are detected by you as you walk past the walls

There may be a water leak underground if you are experiencing any of the above or it could be in the walls. If there is a water leak underground, a sewer scope inspection can be done. This inspection is done by an inspector who uses a special type of camera that goes through the drainpipe in the home and into the sewer lines. This allows the inspector to see if there are any issues or potential issues before you buy the home or while you are living in it.

Selecting The Right Test To Determine If There Is A Leak

Leak detection can be rather inexpensive considering the potential damage that has been occurred. There are a few ways to conduct leak detection, even as a home owner.

Moisture Detection Unit

There are moisture detection units that you can purchase from a local hardware store to assist you in your leak detection process. This device will analyze the moisture inside the wall. You will place the meter against the wall and collect measurements from four to five different spots. This data will allow you to determine where the most moisture buildup is occurring. However, you will still need a professional to find the source of the leak.

Infrared thermography inspection.
Moisture Meter Showing Wet Wall

Infrared Thermography Inspection to Find a Water Leak Inside a Wall

Another leak detection tool is called an infrared camera. This camera will use thermography to analyze moisture in the walls by using optics, infrared energy, and surface temperature. A home inspection company that does this (not all do) will have certified inspectors in this area. Not every company does, but we do here at Inside and Out Property Inspectors! You need someone certified so they know how to read the colors on the camera and know where the temperature differential is. Thus, this will allow us to find the area where the leak will be, and instead of tearing down walls, it is zeroed into a particular area.

One of the last ways you can conduct leak detection is by cutting a hole in the drywall where the leak is showing. This will allow you to get in behind the wall for a direct view of where the possible leak is coming from. Keep in mind, this is the last resort as not all leaks are present in a direct location. Water can travel many feet prior to it actually damaging a wall. Lastly, this is why hiring a certified professional will save you time, money, and repairs in the end.

You can check the water meter to see if you have a leak in your home.

What to Do If I Find a Water Leak Inside a Wall

  1. Turn off the water to the home.

This is located outside of your home, generally on the same side as your sprinkler system pump, or on the garage side if you do not have a sprinkler system.

2. Check your water meter. The water meter is located close to the road and is where the city water number is taken by their technicians each month.

3. Water meter still running? If the water meter is still running even after you have shut off your main water connection, then it is highly likely that you have a leak.

In this event, you should call a professional plumber or leak detection company to inspect your issues and determine what the costs of repairs might be.

How Much Is The Water Leak Going To Cost

There are a few factors that come into play when assessing the repair charges of water damage to your home’s wall or ceiling. On average, the repairs can cost anywhere from $350 to $2,500 depending on the extent of the damage.

You also have to consider that a good water damage company is necessary to get a proper quote on all of the repairs. Not only will the walls need fixing, but plumbing and mold removal might be involved as well.

You are not the only one to have gone through a leak in a wall. Let’s take a look at an informative video on how to approach the leaky scenario.

Maintenance of the Home

Eaves and Downspouts

It is imperative that you keep your eaves and downspouts associated with your gutter work free and clear of all debris. If the gutters get backed up with debris, it is possible for water to collect and build up with no place to go. Once the gutter overflows, the water could possibly enter your home’s interior walls. Keeping the eaves and downspouts free and clear of debris on a regular basis will substantially reduce the chances of water entering your home.

Carpets

Make sure to check the carpets in your home to see if you have mold growing. This often can happen from roof leaks, as well as pipes that break or even flood in the home. Some maintenance ideas to avoid this are vacuuming often, replacing the air filter every 3 months in the HVAC, and making sure the air conditioner stays in the “auto” setting instead of the “on” setting.

HVAC units can leak water inside and outside the home.

HVAC Systems

HVAC systems last about 10-15 years but do need maintenance. Make sure you are changing out the air filter every three months. This is important so you know that air is able to flow through. Also, check the air handler to make sure there is no water leaking. If there is or you see the coils freeze, you need to hire a professional.

When Should I Call A Professional

The moment that you notice any damage to your walls or ceiling is when you will want to call a professional water damage company. If you are not sure who to call, you will want to call the Inside and Out property inspectors. The team at Inside and Out property inspectors will be able to assess the damage and refer a more reputable water damage company. This will provide you with peace of mind as you get the best home repair care for your money.

Conclusion

Coming home after a long day of work and you notice a water puddle on the floor or signs of damage to your walls. These are examples of things that can ruin your day really quickly. Well, have no fear, we are here to help you. Inside and Out Property Inspectors can conduct an infrared thermography inspection on your home in the Jacksonville and St. Augustine, FL areas.

Leaky pipe

3 Ways to Stop a Leaking Pipe

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Leaking pipes in the home can create a mess along with a lot of damage and expense. However, sometimes it is difficult to know where the leak originated. How do you stop a leaking pipe? Besides turning off the water in the home first, the other ways are using epoxy putty, a pipe repair kit with tape, and patch and clamp. Unfortunately, these are temporary fixes and in the end, you will need to replace the pipe.

We will look at why you need to know how to stop a leaking pipe, three ways to stop it, fixing other areas of the home that have leaks, how to know when you have a leak, and when to call a professional.

Why You Need to Know How to Stop a Leaking Pipe

As mentioned above, water leaking from a pipe can cause a lot of damage in the home so finding where the pipe is leaking is important. Sometimes it might be in a wall or it might be under a sink for example. Stopping the leak until you can get a professional to visit and fix the leak is important. Many professionals can use infrared thermography to find it for you as well!

3 Ways to Stop a Leaking Pipe

1. Expoxy Putty

This is a substance that hardens at room temperature and can be used as an adhesive to fill a space. You want to make sure you buy the type that is made for pipes. This can be used over the source of the leak to temporarily stop it.

First, you will turn off the water for that area at the water valve closest to the pipe. If it is a sink, toilet, clothes washer, or bathtub (and exposed pipes), the valve is close to the appliance. However, it might be better to turn off the water for the entire house. If you are not sure where the main water valve is, it is usually on the perimeter of the home, or locate the property inspection report to find it.

Next, you will drain the water that is in that line and dry it. It must be dry to put the epoxy on it.

Then, tear off enough epoxy that you need and knead it. This will help with stretching it over the leak.

Read the manufacturer’s directions, and apply the putty over the leak and allow it to cure.

Lastly, after curing, turn the water on and check to see if there is any leaking. If not, that is great and you have put a temporary fix on the pipe.

2. Pipe Repair Kit With Tape

Another option is a pipe repair kit with tape and an easy way to temporarily stop the leak.

To do this, shut off the water supply first

Next, read the directions from the manufacturer for how to activate the fiberglass tape and wrap it around where you see the leak. Do you have a low pressure line? If you do, you can use silicone tape instead

This should be easy to do because of the flexibility of the tape. However, if you need help, contact a professional

patch and clamp

3. Patch and Clamp

The third way to repair a leak is with a patch and a clamp

Turn off the water supply and dry the area. File down any sharp edges

Look at the damaged section and apply the repair patch over it and use the clamps to tighten it

Turn the water back on to make sure there are no leaks

Here is a video about additional ways to fix a leaky pipe.

How to Fix Other Areas of the Home That Have a Leaking Pipe

Leaky pipe joints– these can be difficult because of the angle of the joint. However, repair sleeves and rubber pipe connectors can help fix this issue.

Bathtub faucet– maybe the bathtub faucet won’t turn off and the tub is about to overflow! Turn off the water at the main water supply if the pipes are not exposed for the tub. If they are, there should be a handle to turn close to the tub.

Toilet leaking water – if you notice water coming out from the base of the toilet, check the tank lid, T-bolts, and the wax ring.

Water heater– keep up with maintenance with the water heater. Also, if you see water leaking from the drain valve, tighten it and see if that helps. If not, contact a professional.

water meter

How Do You Know if You Have a Leak

Before you see the leak, one indicator is that your water bill is higher. Anytime we have a leak, the water bill increases. You can check your water meter, which is by the street or in your backyard and usually has a metal top over it.

When you are checking your yard for other signs, have you seen cracked pavement or bulges in the driveway? Maybe you see sinkholes or potholes in the yard, or air and dirt in the water? If yes, you will need to contact a professional to check if there is a water leak underground. You will need to find out if it is from the sewer line on your property and your responsibility or if it is off the property and the city’s responsibility.

Did you notice there may is mold or mildew in the home or peeling or bubbled paint or even dripping sounds? These could signify that you have a water leak in the walls. It is important to get this checked out right away by a professional.

When to Call a Professional

Call a professional if you suspect you have a leaking pipe. Remember, you may be able to temporarily fix it yourself but it will also require a replacement. If you are not comfortable replacing it on your own, contact a professional. Also, if you have any of the signs above for a leak you cannot see, contact a professional for help.

Conclusion

Moreover, water leaks are frustrating and seem to come out of nowhere. However, if you can catch it early enough, then you can spare a lot of damage in the home and yard. An important takeaway is to make sure you know where the water main shut-off is or the water valves near the appliances. We can inspect your home for water leaks in the Jacksonville and St. Augustine areas. We use infrared thermography and can find the source for you! Contact us if you are in need of one of our services.

Bathroom smells like sewage

Bathroom Smells Like Sewage Causes & Fixes

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Most people will have air fresheners in their bathroom to keep it smelling clean.  Sometimes candles are lit or fragrances are open to make sure there is a pleasant smell.

Unfortunately, there may be a time that you have a sewer smell and it is important to find the cause.  What do you do if your bathroom smells like sewage?  There are a few areas to check; the shower drain, the Jacuzzi tub, the sink,  and the toilet.  If there is gurgling noise in the sink and toilet drains and the water smells, you may have a bigger issue with the sewer system.

Taking a look at these three areas will give you an idea of where the smell is coming from.  Addressing it right away is important because the methane gases from the sewer are highly flammable and can cause health problems.  

Why This is Important

The smell of sewer is not a fragrance we want to be around or breathe in daily.  Smelling sewer in the home means there is an issue in the shower with the drain, a vent pipe that is cut or not installed properly on the toilet, or seals that are broken or loose. Finally, a build-up in the overflow of the sink can also cause this smell.  If you investigate all these areas and still have the smell, you will need to call a professional.

Bathroom Smells Like Sewage- Causes

The shower drain
Shower drain can cause the bathroom to smell like a sewer

1. The Shower Drain

When we shower, it is to clean the dirt off our bodies.  However, did you know that the products we use can cause a biofilm to form?  Do you see an orange or pink film? If yes, this could be causing the shower drain to make the bathroom smell like sewage. Cleaning this biofilm is important as it is bacteria.

How to Clean the Biofilm When Bathroom Smells Like Sewage

  1. Take the cover off the drain with a screwdriver
  2. Take a paint roller cover and dip it into hot water and then disinfectant
  3. Stick the paint roller in the drain and spin it around to get the film off
  4. Repeat as necessary putting the cover into the hot water and disinfectant

2. The Jacuzzi Tub

If you have a Jacuzzi tub, you may notice black flakes coming out of it.  This could also be due to biofilm, just like you find in the shower as mentioned above.  Take a look at this link to find out the process for cleaning it out.

Sink
Sink with biofilm will cause a bathroom to smell like a sewer

3. Sink

In the sink, there can be a buildup of guck and mildew and makes the bathroom smell like sewage.  Fix this by:

1.Use ½ cup of baking soda and ½ cup of distilled white vinegar

2.Pour these in the drain

3.Put a stopper over the concoction and keep it there for 30 minutes while a foam forms.

4.Once 30 minutes is up, take the stopper out and use a plunger.

5.Create a seal with the plunger and move it up and down several times to try to get the clog out

6.Then, run warm water in the drain for a couple of minutes.

7.Repeat the steps of the plunger and the water if the clog remains.

If the clog remains, contact a professional to help.

The P –Trap is Dry, Dirty, or Missing and the Bathroom Smells like Sewage

The P-trap is the U- shape pipe under the sink.  If the P-trap becomes dry, it is because the water evaporated from the shower.  Fix this by running water for a few minutes to allow it to fill up.  If the P trap is dirty, it is not holding water and allowing the hydrogen sulfide gases to escape.  If the P trap is missing, replace it or call a professional to do this.

4. The Toilet

Bathroom still smells like sewage after checking shower drain, Jacuzzi tub, and sink? Then check the toilet next.  The toilet may have an improperly installed or cut vent pipe in the walls if you smell sewage.  The vent pipe sends the odors out of the home but if it is cut or improperly installed, it could be sending the odor back into the bathroom.  You don’t want this to carry on for long and need to call a professional.

If you look at the toilet and there is water pooling next to it, it can be loose or broken seals or more caulking is needed.

Seals broken or loose.
Broken seal on bottom of a toilet

5. Seals Broken or Loose

The toilet attaches to the drain with seals.  If they are broken or loose, they will allow sewer gases into the home.  If the seals are leaking water around the toilet, bacteria grows and creates a yucky smell.

The wax ring seals the toilet to the pipes, so if it is broken or missing, this can cause foul odors and important to fix.  You can do it yourself but it is a good idea to contact a professional, as it involves removing the entire toilet.

Caulking

Caulking at the base of the toilet is important to make sure it is connected to the floor.  However, some professionals don’t think it is a good idea, while others say it is essential.  If caulk is missing there can be a sewer smell that comes up from the floor if there is a separation between the floor and the toilet.  If you do need to add caulk, make sure you leave a little open in the front and back areas at the base of the toilet for drainage when cleaning the floor or if there is a water leak

6. Gurgling of the Toilet or the Sink

If you hear the gurgling of the toilet or sink and it is yucky water, it could be a sewer issue.  This is not something for a homeowner to mess with and you need to call in a professional.  A professional will come to the home and do a sewer scope inspection.

The inspection only takes a few minutes and involves turning off the water in the home.  Then, the inspector will turn it on and flush out the system and allow the sewer scope camera to float through and take pictures of cracks, clogs, what the material of the line is, and if there are tree roots growing through the line.  The inspection costs about $100- $250 depending on the location of the home.

7. Air Admittance Valves & Plumbing Vents

The gurgling of the toilet or sink could also be a clogged plumbing vent.  The purpose of the plumbing vent is to provide a backflow of air into the plumbing system and release sewer gases outside your home.  If the vent is cut or installed improperly, it won’t allow the sewer gases out and you can have gurgling of water.  In fact, gurgling of the sink or toilet is an obvious sign.  Plumbing vents allow fresh water into the system and for water to flow smoothly through the drain pipes and get the gas and odors out of the home.

Every home needs at least one plumbing vent that goes to the outside.  However, instead of having many in the home, some people choose to use air admittance valves instead. Not every state allows these to be used so check with the building codes in your state. Here in Florida, they are allowed according to  2014 FBC Plumbing Guide . Like with everything mechanical, these can fail. The most common place for air admittance valves is underneath your sink. Check under your sink for sewer smells if you believe it is an air admittance valve.

When to Call a Professional

Call a professional when you need help diagnosing the problem or if you find the problem is more than you can handle.  As mentioned above, if your issue is gurgling of the toilet or sink, then a sewer inspection needs to be done by a professional.

Conclusion

Sewer smell in the bathroom is unpleasant and can be harmful so start investigating as soon as you smell it.  There are a few areas to check as mentioned above and if you aren’t comfortable fixing them or need help to diagnose and fix, please leave us a note below so we can help! 

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