How To Repair A Leak
As soon as you spot a leak, fix it before more water damage is done. Leaking pipes can be easily patched and repair with just a little DIY know how. Watch and learn
Step 1: Turn off the water
First things first. Put a bucket - or anything you have to hand - underneath to catch the water. Then turn off the water supply by finding the valve on the supply pipe. Or by finding the main stopcock for the house.
If the leak is a big one, call the experts immediately. But if it's just a few drips you can temporarily fix it yourself.
TOP TIP: If the leak is in the ceiling and water is dripping through, make a small hole with a screwdriver and catch the water in a bucket. This may prevent water building up and potentially bring the whole ceiling down!
Step 2: Option 1 - Temporary Fixes
For a quick fix, you'll need a pipe clamp, or a length of hose and C-clamp. Stick the pipe clamp over the leaky pipe, or if you don't have one of these handy, improvise with a piece of rubber cut from a hose pipe. Make sure it is longer than the damage in the pipe, then slice lengthways and wrap it around. Hold it in place with a C-clamp and small blocks of wood. This should hold the leak until we arrive.
Step 3: Option 2 - Epoxy putty
This easily moulded stuff is good for leaks at joints and fittings. Clean the pipes with a cloth first to get rid of any dirt and dust, then slip on some household gloves to save your hands. Mix the putty as per the manufacturers instructions on the packet. Press it around the leak making sure there is a good coverage. It will take anything from a couple of hours to a day to dry depending on the make.
Step 4: Option 3 - Amalgamation tape
This is a strong, water tight tape that can be easily wrapped around leaking pipes. Read the instructions on the packet carefully, and apply.
Step 5: A permanent solution
These quick fixes should stop the water dripping for now, but the only way to really prevent further damage is to replace the faulty pipes.
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How To Repair A Leak For more
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