How Do You Fix a Plumbing Line?

Plumbing has changed the way people are able to live and has afforded many comforts and conveniences over the past century. When a problem arises, whether at your home or business, the repairs can be more than just an inconvenience. Knowing your options can help you make an informed decision that is best for you.  

Plumbing lines can be created from a variety of materials. Some options are:  

• galvanized steel 
• copper 
• polyvinyl chloride 
• chlorinated polyvinyl chloride or cross-linked polyethylene 
• PEX 
• plumbing pipes 

Most homes have PVC, CPVC, or copper pipes. Repair options vary based on the type of leak, location of the leak and the material which the pipes are made of. Some signs that you have a leak may include: 

• water coming through the foundation wall 
• rumbling or hissing sounds 
• loss of water pressure 
• increase in water bill 

In cases when the leak is inside the home, most repairs will involve cutting out and removing a section of the pipe in order to replace it. When pipes are made from copper or plastic, there really is no reliable way to make a leak-proof patch.  

Patching a Plumbing Line 

To patch and repair a plumbing water line, you may be able to use a patch kit from a hardware store. It is also possible to make your own patch using heavy rubber from an innertube and a C-clamp. Another option is using a hose clamp with a rubber patch. A kit from a hardware store will include a rubber pad that goes over the hole and then metal plates that tighten and press the rubber pad over the whole. This method is quick, easy and requires fewer tools and steps. This is a reliable temporary fix but, if the pipe is in good condition, this can even be a permanent fix. 

Repairing Copper Pipes 

• Locate the leak and shut off the water at the shut-off valve. Using a faucet that is connected to that pipe, open and allow the water pressure to be relieved.  
• Use a pipe cutter to cut out the damaged section of the pipe. If the fitting is also leaking, be sure to cut it out along with 6 inches of the pipe at each port to allow for an easier process.  
• Drain the pipes completely and then de-burr the ends with a file. Be sure that you can see the shiny copper color before continuing.  
• Place a copper coupler on the ends by spreading soldering flux on the end of the pipe and inside of one port of the coupler. Slide the coupler onto the pipe. Use a propane torch to heat the joint until the flux smokes. Then, remove the heat and touch a coil of lead-free solder against the joint. Continue to move the solder around the joint as it melts and fills the space.  
• Cut pipes and fittings needed in order to repair and recreate the section of pipe that was removed. Put them on temporarily in order to be sure that they fit. Then, spread flux on the ends of the pipes as well as inside the fittings and solder the joints individually.  
• Turn the water back on at the shut off valve and be sure that there are no leaks.  

Repairing Plastic Pipes 

• Locate the leak and shut off the water at the shut-off valve. Using a faucet that is connected to that pipe, open and allow the water pressure to be relieved.  
• Use a hacksaw to cut out the damaged section of the pipe and allow the pipes to drain. 
• Use 120- grit sandpaper to smooth the ends of the pipes where the section was removed. Apply PVC or CPVC cement, according to the pipe, and on the end of one pipe and the inside of the coupler using the applicator that comes with the cement. Slide the coupler into the pipe, twisting it and allowing the cement to spread. Hold for about 10 seconds while the cement dries.  
• Cut pipes and fittings needed in order to repair and recreate the section of pipe that was removed. Put them on temporarily in order to be sure that they fit. Then, take the section back apart and apply the cement and replace all parts with the cement on.  
• Turn the water back on at the shut off valve and be sure that there are no leaks.  

For pipe leaks leading into your home there are two other options, DIY epoxy pipe lining and trenchless pipe lining.  

DIY Epoxy Pipe Lining 

Epoxy pipelining is simple and affordable for repairing cracked or leaking pipes. This is done by inserting an epoxy-covered tube inside of the sewer line and then, once in place, inflating the tube. The epoxy will harden and create a new, leakproof lining in your sewer pipe. While this method may not be the best for an inexperienced DIYer, most experienced individuals can perform this repair without too much complication. Be aware that a mistake while pipe lining can cause further damage. Know your limits and when it is best to call a professional.  

Trenchless Pipe Lining 

There are many benefits of trenchless pipe lining! Besides being less expensive, it also creates less mess as no excavation is required. Additionally, this process is much faster and is typically completed within one day. It is environmentally friendly and approved by the EPA. The pipe lining process is as follows:  

• Clean the existing pipe. 
• Performa a video inspection of the pipe and get measurements. 
• Prepare the liner.  
• Pull or shoot the liner into the pipe. 
• Inflate the internal balloon, or calibration tube. 
• Perform a video inspection of the restored pipe.  

All Star Service and Repair proudly serves Salt Lake City County and Utah County. Our certified plumbers will gladly help repair the pipes in your home. We offer 24/7 emergency plumbing, do NO outsourcing of work, are professionally licensed, and we have an A+ rating with the BBB!  

Call us at 801-792-2428 today for your free and reliable estimate.