Red Deer Plumbing Services: The Dangers of A Leaking Toilet or Tap

If a leak is minor, do you really need to seek plumbing services in Red Deer? Unfortunately, even a slow drip can cause significant problems if you don’t address it immediately. If you let a tap or toilet go for too long, you’ll have to deal with the following issues.

Moisture Is the Enemy of Your Home’s Structure

Most homes’ internal structures are made of wood, an organic material that readily absorbs water. Absorption causes wood to swell, putting pressure on joints and frames. Water is also a natural draw for pests, including termites, which feast on wood, plaster and other common building materials. Termite damage can be expensive to repair, especially if these critters spread throughout the home.

Wood beams aren’t the only elements at risk of moisture damage. If a leak makes its way to your foundation, it can cause cracks that expand with time. An unstable foundation can affect every area of your home and requires costly repairs.

Insulation and drywall can also suffer from moisture. Wet insulation doesn’t perform as well, which means less efficient heating and cooling. Drywall bubbles when wet, causing cracks and peeling wallpaper.

Evidence of moisture damage can significantly impact your home’s value. Potential sellers may also require you to fix said damage before the property changes hands, cutting into the profit you’d make.

Leaks Waste Water

Even if you’re not aware of a leak, you’re still paying for the water. That can add up to 10,000 gallons a year, which is no small sum. If your utilities are higher than usual, but there’s no change in rate or usage, you may have a hidden leak.

Of course, your bank account isn’t the only thing that suffers. Many areas of the U.S. struggle with droughts and leaks wastewater that could go toward useful tasks. If you want to live an environmentally friendly lifestyle, finding and fixing household leaks is an easy way to do so.

Mould and Mildew Can Harm Your Health

Mould and mildew need abundant moisture to grow, and when they do, your family suffers. These fungi can sprout where you can’t see:

• Inside walls
• Under floorboards
• In ceilings

Fungi reproduce by creating airborne spores, which residents may inhale. Spores can cause a multitude of health problems, especially for individuals with respiratory issues:

• Skin rash
• Runny nose
• Red eyes
• Sneezing

The worst type, black mould, is so prolific, dangerous and difficult to get rid of that some homeowners abandon their houses upon its discovery. Of course, even the milder kinds can be expensive to remove and require professional attention. In most cases, you’ll need to stay somewhere for a few days while the remediation team works.

Mould and mildew can also pose a threat to your home’s integrity. Fungi cause wood rot, which makes structures brittle. They can also make paint bubbles and wallpaper peel. If mould is close to the surface, you’ll notice ugly black, brown, yellow or white stains that are difficult to scrub away. You may also detect a musty smell with no discernable source.

If you suspect a leak, you need to call a plumber as soon as possible. Fortunately, Handyman Connection is here to make the repair process simple.
We connect homeowners with top-tier experts to address common household problems. We can remedy the issue whether you have a toilet that won’t stop flushing or a dripping tap. We can also repair water damage such as bubbling paint or swelling floorboards. No matter the project, we’re happy to tackle it. If you’re ready to get an estimate or want to learn more, give us a call or reach out to us online.