Leaking pipe joints are a common plumbing problem in homes, especially older ones. Plumbing pipes are durable, but over time, joints can weaken due to various causes. If you live in an older home and you’ve not yet repiped your property, you should be on the lookout for leaking pipe joints and take action before more expensive water damage occurs. As a homeowner, it’s important to know how to seal a leaking pipe joint to save yourself the headache of costly repairs down the road.
In this guide, Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Wichita explains how to seal a leaking pipe joint. However, it’s important to know when to call a professional plumber in Andale, KS for help. Depending on the severity of the leak, you may only need a quick fix, or you might be dealing with a bigger issue that requires the expertise of a skilled plumber.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before starting, gather these tools and materials:
- Pipe wrench or adjustable pliers
- Towels or rags
- Teflon tape (also known as plumber’s tape)
- Pipe joint compound
- Replacement fittings or pipes—this is only needed if you need to replace some parts.
If the leak is on a PVC, copper, or PEX pipe, you may also need pipe cement, a pipe cutter, or crimping tools, depending on the type of pipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Always start by shutting off the water supply to the affected area. Open a faucet nearby to drain any remaining water in the pipe. It’s important to know the location of both point-of-use shut-off valves and the main water shut-off valve.
Step 2: Dry and Inspect the Joint
Use a towel or rag to dry the area. Carefully inspect the joint to determine the source of the leak. If the pipe is cracked or corroded, sealing alone won’t fix the issue—you’ll need a replacement section. This job should be left to a trusted plumber specializing in pipe replacement.
Step 3: Disassemble the Joint
Use a wrench or pliers to carefully loosen and disconnect the joint. Be gentle, especially if the pipes are old, to avoid causing more damage.
Step 4: Apply Teflon Tape or Joint Compound
Wrap the male threads of the pipe with Teflon tape, going in the direction of the threads to ensure a snug fit. For added sealing power, apply a layer of pipe joint compound over the tape.
Step 5: Reconnect and Tighten
Reconnect the joint and tighten it securely, but avoid over-tightening, which can cause cracks or distort the fittings. This is a common DIY mistake when it comes to pipe repair and even faucet repair—be sure to avoid making the same mistake.
Step 6: Turn the Water Back On
Turn the water back on and watch for leaks. If the joint remains dry, you’ve sealed it successfully. If it still leaks, the problem may be deeper and will likely require a professional plumbing repair service.
Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Wichita for Leak Detection and Plumbing Repairs
Knowing how to fix a leaking pipe joint is one thing; ensuring the leak doesn’t occur again is another. Moreover, it may happen that your pipes are approaching the end of their lifespan, and a whole-house repipe may be the most practical long-term solution. That’s why it’s advisable to work with a trusted plumbing repair service whenever you’re dealing with a plumbing leak. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Wichita is the company to call when you have a water leak in your property. For decades, we’ve been detecting and repairing leaks in various properties. Contact us for leak detection and all of your plumbing repair needs.
