We always get call for customers requesting a "leak detection". We generally classify them into residential or commericial leak detection requests. Within the residential classification, we have outdoor leaks, under slab leaks, leaks showing up on the floor and leaks in the ceiling. Within commercial leaks we typically try to determine the size of the facility and if the amount of piping on the property requires special equipment and mapping to even begin the process.
Outdoor residential leaks generally do not require sophisticated leak detection equipment. Copper and galvanized lines can be easily traced and leaks found with a simple probe rod. The first step on an outdoor leak is to determine if the pipe material is repairable (old galvanized and polybutylene pipe cannot be reliablly repaired) and then to determine whether the cost of a new line is less then the cost of locating and repair. Leaks under driveways, under expensive landscaping (ex: mature red maples), under poured porches or excessively deep water lines..............can be expensive to fix. Rerouting the line is generally less expenvise and carries a full warranty on the new line.
Indoor leaks in the ceiling, generally require cutting a hole in the ceiling, but checking the obvious visible plumbing above the leak is the best first start. A wet spot in the ceiling is basically considered the leak being narrrowed down.
Indoor leaks under slabs can be tricky. In some cases ultrasonic leak detection, combined with a infrared camera can easily pinpoint a leak.Depending on the location of the leak, a cost benefit analysis must be performed. Either reroute the line or starting jackhammering the floor. In most cases rerouting the specific line to the fixture is the best long term option. Rerouting the line generally avoids flooring damage, cabinet damage and you do not have to worry about the line leaking again. The cost to reroute the line and repair drywall if necessary is generally less expensive then the slab repair. The time involved in getting the house back to normal is reduced and the leak issue is permanently fixed verus a band aid.
A experienced plumber will generally be able to determine whether spot repair versus rerouting is the best option.
We have encountered many cases where a leak detector has marked a slab leak and a separate plumber has jackhammered holes all over the house trying to fix the leak. We enter the house and present an option to reroute a line or repipe the house. The cost to repipe an entire house and do all the drywall and paint work is lower than the cost of destroying the house.
Insurance companies generally pay for leak detection, access, water damage repair and floor restoration. Plumbing specifically is not covered. Writing a detailed proposal with options is key to getting the most insurance coverage.
Therefore, the best route is to have a plumber evaluate your problem. Once evaluated, the leak detection and repair option verus a direct repair opton can be determined. Throwing away hundred of dollars on a unnecessary leak detection may not be the best first step.
Mike Whitman
Atlantis Plumbing
770-505-8570
It is not easy to find reliable plumber in Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange County and other cities in California. Best plumbers in California are characterized by the kind of work they do as well as the fee they charge for rendering plumbing problems.
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