How Do You Repair Leaky Pipes Quickly?
You can stop – or at least slow down – a leak to prevent water damage until a plumber can do the complete repair. These steps are for a temporary fix, not a long-term cure. Step 1 jQuery(document).ready(function(){ jQuery(‘#jsArticleStep1 span.image a:first’).attr(‘href’,’http://i.ehow.com/images/ehows/steps/leakypipes1_L.jpg’); }); Tighten a threaded joint with a pipe wrench if the leak is there. If that doesn’t stop the leak, it may at least slow the leak until the joint can be replaced. (Note: Some older plumbing may require brazing – a kind of welding. If the pipe has no threads, or you see signs of welding, leave this technique to the professionals.) Step 2 jQuery(document).ready(function(){ jQuery(‘#jsArticleStep2 span.image a:first’).attr(‘href’,’http://i.ehow.com/images/ehows/steps/leakypipes2_L.jpg’); }); Plug a very small hole by sticking the tip of a sharp pencil in it. Break off the tip in the hole and cover the hole with duct tape, wrapping it in several layers. Step 3 Alt
You can stop – or at least slow down – a leak to prevent water damage until a plumber can do the complete repair. These steps are for a temporary fix, not a long-term cure. Tighten a threaded joint with a pipe wrench if the leak is there. If that doesn’t stop the leak, it may at least slow the leak until the joint can be replaced. (Note: Some older plumbing may require brazing – a kind of welding. If the pipe has no threads, or you see signs of welding, leave this technique to the professionals.) Plug a very small hole by sticking the tip of a sharp pencil in it. Break off the tip in the hole and cover the hole with duct tape, wrapping it in several layers. Alternatively, apply epoxy putty specially formulated for leaks caused by cracks or small holes. Fix larger holes by clamping a piece of hose around the pipe. With a knife, cut a length of hose at least 2 inches longer than the hole. (Rubber hose or even an old piece of garden hose will do.) You will also need three hose clamps. Sli