Copper Pipe Repair for Pinhole Leaks

Reasons Behind Damage

Mechanical Damage—Just like with other metals, physical factors such as sediment or high water pressure can corrode the interior of a pipe and weaken it.

Chemical Damage—Water's pH, temperature, and bacteria, and sulfate concentration can all remove the protective oxide covering from copper pipes, making them prone to corrosion.

Poor installation—There’s a reason behind why so many people stress the importance of professional installations, especially when it comes to plumbing systems. Copper pipes that are incorrectly installed may have lower corrosion resistance thresholds, causing early deterioration and leakage.

Repair Methods

There are a few ways to handle pinhole leaks. Here are two of the common ones.

Traditional Pipe Repair—This is a relatively straightforward method. To repair the pipe, there’s a need to expose the pipe. To do this, professionals first need to cut through walls, ceilings, or floors or the other cover on top of the pipe and replace the damaged piece. Although this strategy is useful for preventing leaks in that specific region, it does not guarantee a permanent solution for the future leaks throughout the system. If there is more than one leak, a complete replacement of the pipe might be necessary.

Epoxy Pipelining—This is another frequently used procedure to repair the pinhole repairs. This involves applying an epoxy liner to the inside of pipes to seal leaks over the entire pipeline. Compared to the traditional pipe repair, this is also a preventative measure that lowers the risk of possible future leaks as well.

Prevention Methods

So, how can you avoid pinhole leaks in the first place? There are a few measures you can take.

• Regular Inspections: Regular inspections come before everything else. Have a professional plumber evaluate your pipes every few years, especially if your house is older.
• Install a Water Softener: If you know that water in your area is hard, a water softener can remove minerals that cause corrosion.
• Lower Water Pressure: As we mentioned before, excessive water pressure can accelerate pipe wear. You can try to adjust the valve to decrease the pressure.

Reliable Plumbing Services

While minor leaks in your home can be repaired yourself, the only solution that provides permanent results is through seeking expert assistance. Thankfully, professionals of Mr. Rooter Plumbing are here to help you with all sorts of plumbing services you may need, from pipe repairs to sump pump services. Our licensed plumbers are here to ensure you have a fully functioning and leak-free plumbing system. Call us now to learn more and schedule your appointment.