Prevent Cracked Plumbing Seals and Future Plumbing Leaks

When most homeowners think about plumbing repairs, they usually think of problems with the pipes. However, your home’s plumbing system contains numerous gaskets, or plumbing seals, that can also cause issues if not properly maintained. These gaskets are located wherever two pipes or other components join. Gaskets create an airtight seal by preventing the pressurized water from leaking at connection points.

Why Plumbing Seals Crack

Plumbing seals are usually made of rubber. Under normal use, when water is consistently run throughout a household, the seals stay moist. If water isn’t being used for a period of time, the seals can start to dry out. Dry seals eventually become brittle and crack, leaving your plumbing system no longer airtight. Leaks will start to occur wherever pipes join.

How to Fix Cracked Seals

To replace a cracked seal, you’ll need to separate the two adjoining pipes with a wrench. You should then be able to locate and remove the broken seal and replace it.

Replacing seals can be a relatively easy DIY project for easily accessible pipes. However, if you’re ever in doubt, or need a helping hand with hard to reach pipes, don’t hesitate to call a professional to handle plumbing maintenance and repairs.

Preventing Cracks

Any time a house sits empty without anyone using the water, cracked seals are a possibility. This often happens when people go on vacation or a home is put up for sale.

If you’re going to be gone for a while, it’s not a good idea to drain your pipes. The better alternative is to have someone housesit for you. A friend or neighbor can come over periodically and run the water in your kitchen and bathrooms to help keep your home’s plumbing seals and system in good shape.

When you are considering buying a home, it’s always a good idea to have the plumbing looked at as part of the inspection. If the water has been turned off or not used in a while, cracked seals are a possibility. Ask for the water to be turned on prior to the inspection so the seals can be looked at it.

Our professionals at Brian Wear Plumbing are here to help with all of your plumbing maintenance needs. If you suspect cracked plumbing seals in your plumbing system, or have any other questions/concerns, contact us today!