From simple infiltration to larger leaks, it is often difficult to detect a leak in a wall for several reasons. First of all, water can run off within the wall itself, for example inside the concrete blocks, thus making the leak invisible. The coatings used to cover the wall can also permanently mask a leak. Finally, the composition of the wall can allow it to absorb large amounts of water, such as plaster or wood, which will hide the problem while causing significant water damage. We will see together the revealing signs that should not be ignored but also the main causes. Finally, the solutions will allow the presence of water to be detected with precision as well as its origin.
What are the telltale signs of a wall water leak?
The telltale signs of a leak in a wall are numerous, some are obvious. Such as a puddle at the foot of the wall, others less such as a bad diffuse odor. The most common case that I encounter during my leak detection interventions is the presence of wallpaper peeling off the wall. In this case, we are pretty sure that we have a problem with a water leak.
The presence of halos on the wallpaper or paint is also an indicator of an infiltration problem. The added concern with moisture stains is that these may have appeared during previous water damage that has since been repaired. Evaporation is generally not sufficient to completely remove the traces left. Detection devices will then prove to be very useful in identifying whether it is a new infiltration problem or not. A bad smell, as well as the presence of mold on the wall are warnings of a moisture problem. Finally, the presence of water on the wall or at the foot of the wall leaves no doubt in this case. Of course, overconsumption or a water meter that runs continuously while the taps are closed and the consumer devices unplugged are signs that should not be overlooked.
What are the main causes of water infiltration in a wall?
The number one cause of water leakage in a wall is the presence of a leaking pipe. Due to weather or even a broken pipe. A poorly maintained roof can also be the source of infiltration. It can happen, especially if it is exterior walls that the problem is simply gutters that cluttered with vegetation can no longer drain the water. Finally, in some particularly humid rooms (bathroom, veranda, etc.) and or poorly ventilated, the humidity in the air can be the source of the problem.
How to detect a water leak in a wall?
In order to make sure of the presence of water in a wall. And how to stop water leakage from wall and the source of the leak, I carry out a non-destructive leak search intervention based mainly on 3 detection devices.
- The humidity tester or moisture meter.
- The moisture meter allows you to quickly visualize the real level of humidity contained in the wall.
- This measuring device thus makes it possible to distinguish an old wet spot from a new wetland.
- The electro-acoustic detector
The electro-acoustic detector is a device for detecting water leaks, the operation of which is based on sounds and ultrasounds emitted by a leaking pipe or waterfalls.
This detector offers the advantage of being able to detect a leak in a wet area. It also makes it possible to locate the source of the leak thanks to the sound volume level. Finally, he ensures that the problem really comes from a pipe to be repaired.
The thermal camera
The thermal camera or infrared camera makes it possible to observe the temperature variations in the breasts of the materials. It is then possible to distinguish all the pipes which pass through the wall. The hot water pipes, cold water pipes, heating pipes, etc.
In addition, the thermal camera easily indicates whether the water is coming from the top of the wall and therefore possibly. Be on the roof or in the room above (bathroom, neighbor, etc.
Once the leak has been observed and its origin precisely identified. You can then .if possible, close the water circuit concerned. And contact me as a plumber approved by most insurance companies, in order to have the plumbing work carried out.