Hidden leaks are one of the most expensive and disruptive plumbing problems a homeowner can face. Because they often stay out of sight, they can quietly soak into drywall, insulation, and framing. This leads to water damage, structural issues, mold growth, and higher water bills. The good news is that you can often catch the early warning signs before major damage occurs.
At That Plumber, we help homeowners identify the earliest signs of a water leak inside a wall. Here’s what to look for and how to confirm a leak before your home suffers costly damage.
A small amount of moisture in your wall might not seem urgent, but hidden leaks are one of the most common causes of structural deterioration. Water that lingers inside walls weakens framing, ruins insulation, and causes paint and drywall to fail. Moisture also creates ideal conditions for mold and mildew, which can affect indoor air quality and your family’s health.
Catching a leak early protects your home and helps avoid expensive restoration work later. Need some help? Call That Plumber today!
Look closely at any area that seems unusual. Common signs include stains or discoloration on drywall, musty odors, bubbling or peeling paint, and warped flooring or baseboards. Even if you do not see standing water, any change in appearance or smell can indicate moisture hiding behind the surface.
One of the simplest tests is to use your water meter. Turn off all appliances and fixtures that use water inside and outside the home. Once everything is off, check the water meter reading. If the numbers continue to move after several minutes, you likely have a hidden leak in your plumbing system.
If you believe you have a leak, turn off your home’s main water valve. This prevents additional water from entering the system while you inspect the problem. The shutoff valve is usually located where the main line enters the home.
Use the visual clues you found earlier to determine where moisture is most concentrated. You may also hear dripping or faint hissing behind the wall. Since water can travel along studs or pipes, the wet spot may not be directly under the leak, but it will guide you to the right area.
A moisture meter helps confirm elevated moisture levels inside a wall. Take several readings in the suspected area until you find the highest concentration. This tool gives you a better idea of where the leak is located and how large the affected area might be. Don’t have a moisture meter? Let That Plumber find the leak before it gets worse. Schedule your service.
Once you identify the damp zone, you may need to look inside the wall. Professionals often use infrared cameras or acoustic leak detection to pinpoint the exact location. If you choose to inspect yourself, a small access hole can help you see whether a pipe, fitting, or fixture is leaking.
Depending on what is causing the leak, repairs may include tightening a fitting, patching a small section of pipe, or replacing damaged piping entirely. After the plumbing repair is complete, you may need to replace drywall, remove damp insulation, address mold, and repaint the affected area.
Some leaks are simple to find, but hidden leaks often require specialized equipment. If you cannot locate the source, if your water meter continues to move when water is turned off, or if you see repeated signs of moisture, it is time to call a licensed plumber.
That Plumber’s experienced team can help you identify leaks inside walls without causing unnecessary damage. Our team can locate the issue quickly, repair it, and ensure your home stays protected from future water problems. Contact That Plumber for reliable leak detection before it’s too late.