Causes of Pinhole Pipe Leaks

Pinhole leaks in copper plumbing can lead to a plumbing emergency in Raleigh-Durham homes and are typically the result of a combination of factors that cause the slow wearing down of the pipe's inner surface. Common reasons for pinhole pipe leaks that can lead to a need for a plumbing leak repair in Raleigh-Durham homes include:

• Excess Chlorine in Water Supply
  A large concentration of chlorine in the tap water can speed up corrosion in copper pipes. This chemical reaction erodes the inside of the pipe, eventually forming small holes that leak water.
• Rust in the Water Heater Tank
  Accumulated rust and sediment in your water heater tank can get into your plumbing, creating circumstances that promote degradation in your pipes. This is most common in older water heaters that have not had regular maintenance or flushed regularly.
• Low Water pH Levels
  Water with lower pH levels, indicating higher acid content, can be particularly harmful to copper plumbing. The acidic water corrodes the copper over time, resulting in the development of pinhole leaks.
• Waterborne or Soil Bacteria
  Certain types of microorganisms in the municipal water or soil, can be a problem. These bacteria can create a microbial film inside the pipes that hastens the corrosion process.

How to Fix Pinhole Pipe Leaks In Raleigh-Durham

If you see plumbing leaks in your Raleigh-Durham home, it’s essential to address the leak as soon as possible to stop further damage. Short-term solutions like using pipe clamps or quick-fix compounds can temporarily block the leak, but they won’t address the underlying cause. For a long-term fix to a plumbing leak in Raleigh-Durham, consider the following options:

1. Water Leak Repair in Raleigh-Durham
   For isolated leaks, a professional Raleigh-Durham plumber can remove and replace the section of the pipe. However, this is only a short-term fix if your entire plumbing system is likely to corrode.
2. Complete Repipe
   If you’re facing multiple leaks or if your plumbing is aging, a complete home repipe is the best solution. Replacing the entire plumbing system with better piping materials like PEX pipes or quality made-in-the-USA copper will fix the issue and provide a durable, long-lasting plumbing system. This could be your best long term option for pipe leak repair in Raleigh-Durham.

Preventing Pinhole Pipe Leaks

Preventing copper pipe leaks in Raleigh-Durham homes needs preventative maintenance and, in some cases, a complete system upgrade. Here are some actions you can consider:

• Water Softeners
  Using a water treatment system, such as a water softener or a whole-home water filter, can lower the levels of chlorine and other chemicals in your home’s water, prolonging the lifespan of your piping.
• Regular Maintenance
  Plan regular plumbing system maintenance with a professional plumber to inspect your water heater and plumbing. Flushing your water heater annually can help prevent the accumulation of debris that causes corrosion.
• Consider Repiping
  If your home’s pipes are over twenty years old or you’ve experienced multiple leaks, it may be time to explore full repiping. Switching out your old pipes with a more corrosion-resistant material like PEX can prevent leaks going forward and give you confidence.