How to Find a Water Leak Inside a Wall
If you suspect you may have a water leak inside your wall, there are certain steps you can take to locate and diagnose the issue. Here, we outline how to identify and fix a water leak in your wall.
The first step is to inspect the area for signs of moisture. Look around windowsills, doors, or any other areas where water could penetrate. Also, check for staining on the wall or ceiling that may indicate a water leak.
7 Signs You Have a Water Leak in Your Wall
It’s important to be aware of some of the common signs of a water leak in your wall:
- High water bill
- Discoloration on a wall surface
- A musty smell
- Cracks in the walls
- Dripping sounds
- Puddles
- Mold or mildew growth
High Water Bill
One of the first signs you have a water leak inside your wall is if your water bill is higher than usual. You should take notice and investigate further to see if there may be an issue in your home with a hidden water leak.
Discoloration on Walls or Ceiling
You may also find discoloration on walls, ceilings or floors that could indicate a water leak. If you find any discoloration on the walls, check around windows or other areas where water can penetrate for further evidence of a leak.
Musty Smell
You may notice an unpleasant musty smell in certain parts of your home, which could be a sign that there’s moisture inside the wall. This could be the result of an undetected water leak.
Cracks in The Wall
Cracks in your walls, especially around windows or doors, may indicate a water leak inside. If you notice any cracks along wall seams, it’s important to take further steps to identify and fix the leak before it causes more damage.
Dripping Sounds
If you hear dripping or running water sounds, it’s likely you have a hidden water leak inside your wall. Take a few minutes to listen and see if you can identify where the sound is coming from.
Puddles
If you suspect there may be a water leak in your walls, look for any puddles around windowsills or on the floor near the wall. This could indicate that a pipe has burst and is leaking water.
Mold Growth
Mold growth can be a sign of a hidden water leak, as mold needs moisture to grow. If you notice any mold growth on your walls or ceiling, there’s likely an issue with your plumbing system that needs to be addressed right away.
Tests That Detect a Water Leak Inside a Wall
Luckily, there are a few tests you can do to detect water leaks inside your wall.
Water Meter
For a nonprofessional test, you can use a water meter to detect if there is any water flowing into the wall. All you have to do is turn off all faucets and appliances that may be using water, then check your home’s main water meter. If it’s still running without anything being turned on, it could indicate that you have an undetected leak in the wall.
Infrared Camera
An infrared camera detects cold areas in a wall that may indicate the presence of water. This method is very effective, as it allows you to find even the smallest leaks inside walls without having to open them up. When using an infrared camera, the wet parts of your wall will appear blue or purple.
Moisture Meter
Using a moisture meter is also a great way to check for wetness inside your wall without having to open it up or tear apart part of the wall. It also gives you a good indication of the severity of the water leak, which can help determine how best to fix it. The leak area will give a higher reading than other areas while using this device.
Contact a Professional
If you suspect there may be a water leak in your walls, it’s best to hire a professional who can locate the source of the problem and fix it. A plumbing expert will use specialized equipment to detect hidden water leaks and repair them quickly and efficiently. They can also help prevent further damage from occurring due to the leak.
Finding the source of a water leak is essential to prevent extensive damage and costly repairs from occurring in your home. Taking these steps can help you quickly identify water leaks before they become a major problem.
Always Be Prepared By Scheduling Regular Water Checks With Downey Plumbing
It’s always important to take preventive measures around your home, such as regularly checking for water leaks. Scheduling regular maintenance and inspections of your pipes with a professional like Downey Plumbing can help you catch any possible issues before they become major problems. This can save you time, money and stress in the long run.
At Downey Plumbing, we are dedicated to providing excellent customer service and top-notch plumbing services to our clients. We have years of experience in the industry and are knowledgeable about all types of water leak issues. Contact us today at 562-646-1221 for all of your plumbing needs!
