Expert Help for Pinhole Leaks in Copper Pipes

Copper Pipes

Copper pipes are strong and long-lasting, but even they can wear out over time. The good news? A skilled plumber in Boca Raton, FL knows exactly how to handle these sneaky leaks. Whether it’s a quick pipe repair or a full repiping job, understanding your options helps you make the best decision for your home.

What Causes Pinhole Leaks in Copper Pipes?

Pinhole leaks are usually caused by corrosion inside the pipe. This corrosion happens slowly, over many years. Water flowing through the pipe reacts with the copper, especially if the water is acidic or full of minerals. The result is a small hole that eventually breaks through the pipe wall.

Other times, poor installation, high water pressure, or even nearby electrical grounding can cause wear on the copper. These leaks often appear in older homes where the plumbing hasn’t been updated in decades. Mr. Rooter Plumbing frequently finds pinhole leaks hiding behind drywall or under floors, where water can do real damage before you notice the problem.

Signs You Might Have a Pinhole Leak

Not sure if you’ve got a pinhole leak? Watch for these clues:

• A sudden drop in water pressure
   
• Higher water bills for no clear reason
   
• Damp spots on walls, ceilings, or floors
   
• Mold or mildew smells
   
• Small green or white crusty spots on visible copper pipes
   

Even if the damage seems small, a pipe repair now can save you thousands later. Many homeowners call a plumber at the first sign of trouble.

How Plumbers Fix Pinhole Leaks

There’s more than one way to repair a copper pipe, depending on the leak's size and location. Here are a few common options:

1. Pipe Patching

A patch might be enough for very small leaks. The plumber cuts out the damaged part of the pipe and replaces it with a short copper section. They solder the new piece in place so water can flow smoothly again.

2. Epoxy or Pipe Wraps

Plumbers might use epoxy or special tape to seal the leak in a hard-to-reach spot. This is usually a temporary fix until a more permanent pipe repair can be done.

3. Full Repiping

Sometimes, one leak means more are on the way. If your copper pipes are old and corroded, the best solution might be repiping your home. That means replacing the old pipes with new ones, often using materials like PEX or updated copper.

A professional plumbing service like Mr. Rooter Plumbing can inspect your pipes and help you decide if a patch is enough or if a full repiping job is smarter in the long run.

DIY or Call a Pro?

You might be tempted to fix a pinhole leak, especially if you spot water dripping from an exposed pipe. But without the right tools and skills, a DIY repair can go wrong quickly. You could end up with a bigger leak or a burst pipe.

Instead, it’s safer to call a licensed plumber. They can ensure the repair is safe, effective, and up to code. Plus, professionals like those at Mr. Rooter Plumbing bring experience and tools that most homeowners lack.

Preventing Future Leaks

Nobody wants to deal with a leak twice. Once your pipe repair is done, it’s smart to consider how to keep the problem from returning. Here’s how:

• Have your water tested—adjusting pH or filtration can help prevent corrosion
   
• Install a pressure regulator to keep water pressure steady
   
• Schedule yearly plumbing inspections with a trusted plumbing service
   

Mr. Rooter Plumbing offers inspections and maintenance plans to catch problems before they become disasters.

Call a Pro Before It Gets Worse

If you notice a small leak or your water pressure feels off, don’t wait. A pinhole leak might be small now, but water damage and repair costs grow fast.

Need help? Reach out to a licensed plumber today. The experts at Mr. Rooter Plumbing can check your system, make quick and reliable repairs, and help protect your home from future issues. Whether you need a fast pipe repair or are ready to discuss repiping, now’s the time to act. Your home—and your wallet—will thank you.