How to Find a Water Leak Inside a Wall

When water starts escaping from the plumbing system due to a crack or hole in the pipes, it is bound to appear in places it should not: your home’s walls, floors, or ceiling. A leak within the wall is particularly problematic because it may not be immediately visible. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average household’s leaks account for nearly 10,000 gallons of water wasted every year, and 10% of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day.

How Does a Wall Leak Occur?

As pipes age, they go through a lot of wear and tear. All the water that flows through them day after day, year after year, causes natural deterioration over time – even more so if the pipes are made of galvanized steel or copper. The most common type of damage they sustain is from corrosion. The mineral deposits from the water itself accumulate inside the pipes, weaken their structural integrity, and make them more susceptible to developing small cracks or holes. It is similar to how a well-worn road eventually gets potholes.

These tiny cracks might not seem like much at first, but they can create significant leaks inside the walls, where they are not easily seen. By the time you notice signs of water damage, there might already be a considerable amount of damage to your Nevada home’s foundation or even the growth of mold. If your home has older plumbing, it is worth having a professional plumber come in and do an inspection, as proactive action can save a lot of hassle and expense down the line.

Your Guide to Finding Water Leaks in Wall

Step 1: Identify Signs of Moisture

Here are some of the most apparent signs of a leak:

Persistent dampness or wet spots on your walls
Bubbling, peeling, or blistering paint or wallpaper
Visible growth of mold or mildew
A persistent musty or earthy smell
Yellowish or brownish stains that spread over time
Walls that appear warped or bent
An unjustified increase in water bills
The sound of dripping water within the walls
Corrosion or rust on any exposed pipe fittings

Step 2: Use a Moisture Meter

If you have noticed one or more signs, it is best to contact a plumbing company to detect wall water leaks. They will have a moisture meter to measure the amount of moisture inside your home’s structure. The plumber will either use a pin-type meter (that needs to be inserted into the wall) or a pinless meter (that requires no penetration).

Step 3: Utilize Infrared Technology

A thermal imaging camera, which uses infrared technology, measures the heat emitted from objects. It basically displays temperature differences on surfaces. Since water has a different thermal conductivity than wood, drywall, and other construction materials, areas with moisture will appear cooler than dry areas.

When scanning a wall, more excellent spots indicate the presence of a water leak because the evaporation of water tends to cool that leaking area. Conversely, if hot water is leaking, the area might appear warmer.

Step 4: Inspect Plumbing Fixtures and Connections

Visually checking your sinks, toilets, faucets, showerheads, washing machine, and dishwasher can also help identify whether these components are the source of a leak or if the issue might be elsewhere, like within the walls. Some of the obvious signs of leaks in these areas are dripping water, water stains, or corrosion around pipe fittings and under sink cabinets.

Step 5: Cut Small Inspection Holes If Necessary

If your plumbing technician thinks there is a leak within your walls and other non-invasive methods (a moisture meter or infrared technology) have not been conclusive, they might need to cut small, strategic holes to create just enough space to get a visual. After making the hole, plumbers use a borescope — a tiny camera on a flexible cable — that can be inserted into the wall to see exactly where the leak is coming from without the need for more significant cuts.

Tips to Prevent Leaks in Your Home in Nevada

Periodically check all exposed pipes, under sinks, and around appliances for signs of corrosion, wear, or damage.
High water pressure can cause a stress leak in your plumbing system. Use a pressure gauge to check your home’s water pressure. It should ideally be between 40 and 60 psi. If it consistently exceeds 60 psi, consider installing a pressure reducer.
If your water supply is hard (contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium), install a water softener to reduce mineral buildup and slow down pipe corrosion.
If you live in Northern Nevada, which is notorious for icy winters, make sure to insulate your pipes to prevent freezing and bursting. Pay special attention to pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages.
To manage humidity levels, use dehumidifiers and maintain good ventilation throughout your home. High humidity may contribute to condensation within wall cavities, which mimic or result in water leaks.
Have a professional plumber conduct an annual inspection to catch problems that are not visible to you. They can inspect hidden areas, test the system’s integrity, and ensure everything functions as it should.
Make sure everyone in your home knows how to turn off the main water supply in case of a severe leak. This quick response can minimize damage until professional help arrives.

Choose a Reliable and Dedicated Plumbing Service in Nevada

Wall water leaks are a potentially serious issue. Our proven and experienced specialists at Active Plumbing & Air Conditioning know how to locate a wall water leak and fix it most effectively. Our team arrives on-site in a fully-equipped van so we can take care of most types of plumbing repairs during our first visit. Here is why you can rely on our rapid services:

We have 25+ years of experience
We are available 24/7
We are licensed, certified, and insured to complete all kinds of plumbing and HVAC jobs

With close to 800 five-star reviews on Google, you can trust that your home’s plumbing is in expert hands. Send us a message here or call at 702-553-1171 to book a service call today.