Whether it happens gradually, or you get a surprise flood in the basement overnight, a leaky basement is no fun. Not only does a water-soaked basement take a long time to clean, but any remaining damp areas can attract the growth of mold and mildew. Instead of just having one problem, you end up with many! There are a variety of factors that can cause basement flooding. But one, and one that might not be the first to come to mind, is your plumbing.
Leaking Pipes
That constant dripping in the kitchen sink or shower is indeed annoying. But along with driving you nuts, it can harm your basement, too. Depending on the severity of the leak, you might notice anything from small stains to puddles on the floor. Leak detection Henderson NV, provided by an experienced plumber, can determine the cause and source of a leak. In the meantime, several clues indicate the presence of a leak. They include:
- Mold and mildew
- Wet wood
- Rust stains
- Stained floors
- Seeping water
Mold and mildew appear near areas exposed to moisture. Respiratory distress is another indication of a leak. Exposure to moisture causes wood to rot, while rust stains can develop in areas where water interacts with metal surfaces. Stained or discolored floors can indicate that you have an actively leaking pipe, or that your pipes have leaked in the past. Seeping water occurs when water makes its way through porous material or into cracks in the foundation. If you suspect a water leak, look for a plumber who can identify and fix a leak Henderson as soon as possible.
Water Supply Leaks
In addition to pipes, water leaks in your basement can come from the water supply line. These leaks can be difficult to detect without the assistance of a qualified plumber, as the water supply line runs deep underground, usually about three feet below the surface. The water supply leak can occur anywhere between your home and the meter. Sometimes, you can easily identify the location of the leak by looking for wet or damp patches of ground. If the meter contains water and it hasn’t rained recently, you may very well have a leaking water supply pipe. Depending on the location, either you or the utility company will be responsible for fixing it. A homeowner is usually accountable for leaks located between the house and the meter. Leaks between the main water pipes and the meter are traditionally the responsibility of the utility company. This is another situation that requires a professional’s help!
There are many possible causes of basement leaks. Signs that a leak might come from your plumbing include large quantities of water that develop quickly and foul-smelling water, which indicates a leak in a sewer pipe or a clogged drain. If you suspect your problem is plumbing-related, or if you’re not sure, contact Service Plus Plumbing, the best plumber in Las Vegas, for a thorough evaluation and repair services.