Are DIY Leak Repairs A Good Idea?

DIY plumbing repairs have become the norm for many homeowners, especially with the endless guides on the internet. If you have the know-how and the right set of tools, fixing minor issues such as leaking faucets can save you money. When you’re experiencing a leak in your home, you may be wondering if going the DIY route is a good decision.

Here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we are licensed and insured leak detection specialists with over 50 years of experience. We are the team you can trust to unearth even the most hidden leaks occurring in hard-to-reach areas, such as beneath your home’s foundation. If you’ve noticed signs of water leaks in your property, contact us for professional water leak repair services.

Water Leaks You Can Fix Yourself

• Leaks from faucets

Leaky faucets are often the result of worn-out or failing components, such as washers, O-rings, cartridges, and valve seats. A simple replacement of the faulty component should take care of the leak. However, faucets with complex designs require more advanced plumbing skills. If you’re out of your depth when it comes to faucet repair, reach out to a professional plumbing service for help.

• Leaky showerhead

Fixing a leaking showerhead is as simple as tightening loose connections or replacing worn-out components, such as washers or seals. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the showerhead onto the shower arm. If component replacement doesn't fix the leak, there might be other issues with the faucet, such as a damaged cartridge or seat. In this case, it's best to call a plumbing repair service to fix the showerhead.

When to Call a Licensed Plumber

• Major Leaks

If you have a burst pipe, a significant leak causing water damage, or multiple leaks throughout your home, it’s advisable to call a plumber to quickly address the issue and prevent further damage. Multiple leaks are usually a sign of an aging plumbing system. If your plumbing is 50 years or older, consider repiping your home to avoid costly structural damage down the road. Whole house repiping may be an upfront expense, but it will save you a lot of money in the long run.

• Recurring Leaks

If you've tried fixing a leak multiple times without success, it's time to call a professional plumbing service to identify the root cause and provide a lasting solution. Recurring water leaks could be an indication of water pressure issues, old pipes, or improperly installed pipes or fixtures. These are more complicated issues that should be addressed by an experienced plumbing company.

• Lack of Plumbing Experience

If you're uncomfortable working with plumbing systems or lack the necessary tools and knowledge to perform accurate leak detection, consider calling a qualified plumber for help.

So, are DIY leak repairs recommended? The answer is—it depends. Minor leaks can be easy to fix if you have some expertise and the necessary tools for the job. However, complex leaks such as those occurring underneath a home’s foundation require professional assistance.

If you’re in need of professional water leak repair services, call the team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing. We have decades of experience fixing all types of plumbing leaks, including sewer line leaks, slab leaks, basement leaks, and many more.