How To Detect Copper Pinhole Leaks: A Calgary Homeowner’s Guide

Copper pinhole leaks can go undetected for years, but the underlying issues can result in costly repairs. Pinhole leaks are tiny leaks in your copper piping. As in the name, these leaks are extremely hard to detect because they are pin-sized leaks. However, despite the small leak, they drip and cause the pooling of water to build up over time. Pinhole plumbing leaks are also exclusive to copper piping due to their specific chemical composition, causing slow corrosion.

Our Calgary plumbers put together this guide to help homeowners detect this plumbing issue with ease. Keep reading to learn more about the signs of copper pipe leaks and their causes. The team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Calgary is here to explain the best ways to fix them.

Warning Signs of Copper Pipe Pinhole Leaks

A pesky pinhole leak in copper pipes can result in thousands of dollars if it goes unaddressed. If you suspect that you have leaky pipes from your copper plumbing lines, here are some signs of pinhole leaks to look out for:

Green or Brown Copper

Copper has unique chemical reactions, and unlike other reactive metals, its contact with water causes a slow process of corrosion. Copper pipe corrosion results in a discoloured, brown, or green oxide coating called patina.

Depending on the layout of your home, some of your copper water pipes may be exposed, such as in the utility room or in unfinished basements. If you are able to notice a green or brown film on the surface of your copper piping, this means oxidation has occurred, which makes the surface more vulnerable to decay, and thus pinhole leaks.

Dripping Sounds

Pinhole leaks are almost impossible to see, but they can sometimes be heard. If all your faucets are off, listen to the sound of dripping water. Depending on the condition of your faucets, and how sound is carried in your home, it may not be possible to hear with your human ears and will require the services of our professional plumber to perform acoustic leak detection.

Our water leak detection tool has a sensor to detect sounds in the wall, which can reveal leaks within the pipeline. By using this technology, our plumbers can quickly identify and repair leaks before they cause further damage to the home.

Mould and Mildew

Pinhole leaks lead to mould and mildew if they have been there for a long time. If you have noticed a damp, mildew smell, you may have a leak. It's also crucial to check your walls for any signs of mould, which can be both white or black.

Mould and mildew are common issues that can arise in homes due to pinhole leaks. If left untreated, these leaks can lead to the growth of mould and mildew, which can be harmful to both the structure of the home and the health of its inhabitants. One of the telltale signs of a leak is a damp, mildew smell, indicating that there may be water seeping into the walls or floors. It is important to check for any signs of mould, which can appear as white or black patches, as well as stained ceilings, walls, or floors.

Stained Ceilings, Walls, or Floors

Water damage can also be visible in the form of water stains or wet spots on surfaces including your ceilings, drywall, and floors. It is crucial to address these issues promptly to prevent further damage to the home. By being vigilant and proactive in checking for leaks and water damage, homeowners can protect their homes from the harmful effects of mould and mildew.

Development of Pinhole Leaks in Copper Pipes

Pinhole leaks in copper pipes are a common issue that homeowners face due to the natural corrosion process of copper. Here are the common causes of copper pinhole water leaks:

• Pitted Corrosion. Pitted corrosion, or internal corrosion is the main culprit behind these leaks, as larger corrosion areas inside the pipes can lead to small clusters of corrosion on the outside, eventually causing leaks if left unchecked. This type of corrosion is accelerated by factors such as water chemistry and turbulence, making some copper pipes more prone to it than others.
• Rusting. Rusting, although not technically common for copper, can also contribute to pinhole leaks by indicating external corrosion, which can be a result of pitting, age, or exposure.
• Aging. Copper pipes have a lifespan of anywhere from 20 to 50 years. As copper ages, this can lead to the development of pinhole leaks, especially in older plumbing systems.
• Exposure. Exposure to certain materials such as rebar, concrete, and soil can also hasten the corrosion process in copper pipes, leading to weakened areas and eventual leaks.

The Best Solution for Copper Pinhole Leaks

Bandaid fixes are easy but not a permanent solution. Whether you use a plumber’s tape or clamp, they will not stop the leak permanently. Therefore, it is always best to call in a knowledgeable plumber if you suspect or detect any signs of copper pinhole leaks. Our Calgary plumbers offer pipe replacement services for severe damage, including traditional excavation or our trenchless pipe bursting method. We can replace your copper pipes with PEX piping or other durable materials.

Pipe Re-Lining With Epoxy Coating

Re-lining of copper pipes using a trenchless method with epoxy coating is a revolutionary solution for protecting copper pipes from leaks. The process is quick, efficient, and far less destructive than traditional replacement methods.

With our epoxy coating process, we first perform a professional plumbing inspection before a protective lining is applied to the inside of the damaged pipes, creating a strong internal barrier that is practically brand new. After a short cure time, your water will be back on, and you can resume your daily activities without any major disruptions.

Investing in our professional plumbing services for your copper pipe pinhole leaks can save you from extremely expensive repairs in the future.

Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing Today—Schedule Professional Plumbing Services for Copper Pipe Pinhole Leaks

Don't let signs of a water leak in your residential copper pipes linger. Get a professional plumbing inspection from our expert team so we can detect premature pinhole leaks and prevent future ones. Our residential plumbing team can perform various leak repairs, including pipe replacement or pipe re-lining.

Call us today to schedule services with our Calgary plumbers for water leak detection services. We proudly serve Calgarians and the neighbouring communities of Haysboro, Chestermere, and Glamorgan.