Why Do Faucets Drip and Cause Water Damage Cleanup?

In an average home, there are several spigots, faucets, and plumbing fixtures. This means there will be plenty of opportunities for water to leak. A major faucet leak might waste as much as 30 gallons of water every day. Worse, any excess water has the potential to cause water damage to your property. The seats and springs which control the water flow and temperature are usually the sources of leaks. Understanding the major causes can help you in identifying potential issues. Here are the top five causes of leaky faucets that might lead to water damage.

1. Damaged Cartridges

If your home has a water tap with two handles, one for cold water and the other for hot water, then you have a cartridge-style faucet. The cartridge would be the valve that regulates the water into the faucet spout on each handle. If your nozzle is leaking water, this could be a broken or clogged cartridge. The outlet and inlet seals on this system can wear out. You may require the services of a professional to clear the dirt from the faucet seals and to replace the cartridges.

2. Water Pressure Problems

If you realize that your bathroom faucet only drips water at certain times or when the handles move in a particular way, the leaks may be caused by your home’s water pressure. That is an issue for the plumber to solve. Make sure you contact one quickly to avoid water damage in your home.

3. Broken Washers

Broken washers are a common reason for a leaking faucet. Washers sit against the valve seat and might wear out over time due to friction. Leakage occurs as a result. Leaking can also occur if a washer is the wrong size or is placed incorrectly.

4. Corroded Valve Seat

You most likely have a rusted valve seat if you have leakage around the spout. Water sediments might accumulate and damage the valve seat. The easiest solution to avoid mineral deposits on internal parts is to maintain and clean them on a regular basis.

5. Malfunctioning O-Ring

The faucet on the sink has an O-ring in it. It is a tiny disc that is fastened to the faucet’s stem screw to keep the handles in place. O-rings, like washers, can wear out or become loose. This is most likely the source of any leaks from one of your faucet handles.

6. Broken Or Cracked Pipes

Because the water in your pipes is under a lot of pressure, burst or cracked pipes can cause a lot of problems. While this type of issue may now show itself at your faucet, you may also see it beneath your sink. If this occurs, call a professional plumber instead of trying to deal with it on your own.

For Water Damage Services Pittsburgh

If your toilets, tubs, sinks, or appliances have caused extensive water damage in your household, contact the water damage services in Pittsburgh. GS Jones restoration professionals have the needed equipment and skills to respond to water damage situations. Our water damage crew is on call 24/7 and will respond quickly to your water or flood damage emergency.