Remember the saying “Prevention is always better than cure”? It also applies to home maintenance, particularly plumbing.
Not calling an emergency plumber in Millcreek, for example, and allowing the water to drip, drip, drip can have significant—and even costly—consequences.
1. It Increases the Risks of Mold
Molds are fungi that thrive in cold, dark, and damp places, such as bathrooms and kitchens. That’s why these areas need to have excellent ventilation.
The problem is, even if the home is well-ventilated, molds can still appear if nobody pays attention to the water leak. Water raises the level of moisture, and that makes the place feel damp.
Bathrooms and kitchens with molds often emit a foul odor. These microorganisms can release volatile organic compounds due to their biological processes.
Molds may also increase the risk of allergic reactions and respiratory conditions. Children, those with a weak immune system, and older adults may develop more severe symptoms or illnesses.
2. Repairs May Be More Expensive Later
Leaks happen because the drain or water pipes may have issues. The metallic ones may already be corroding. If the pipes are plastic, their structural integrity may be becoming weaker.
As the water drips non-stop, the damaged pipes continue to deteriorate until the only way to fix the problem is to change everything. Pipe replacement may cost up to $10,000, depending on the severity and the materials used.
3. Pooling Water Can Cause Severe Injuries and Accidents
The Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC) once revealed that thousands of Americans sustain bathroom-related injuries each year. The primary cause slips and falls, especially in bathroom or shower stalls and bathtubs.
However, homeowners may also suffer from an injury while near a sink, toilet, or faucet. One of the possible reasons is a water leak.
Bathroom-related injuries can be costly. Back in 2008, it accounted for over $67 billion in lifetime medical spending, according to the CDC. Worse, although it’s nonfatal, the outcome may still be severe.
A person who experiences slips and falls can break a bone, such as in the hip. They may also hit their head on the floor; and depending on the impact, it may result in a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
In 2010, the CDC said that the estimated direct and indirect medical expenses due to TBI could reach over $75 billion. While many of the cases are minor, the moderate to severe ones may lead to long-term care, disability, and loss of income. It may even result in death.
4. It Decreases the Value of the Property
A home is an excellent investment as its value tends to increase over time unless the owner fails to take care of it. Water leaks, for example, can cause a musty smell, wall stains, and ugly flooring in the bathroom or kitchen.
Although homeowners may decide to sell their house as-is, more buyers are becoming cautious about their investments. Real estate contracts may also include a contingency clause. This provision guarantees that potential home buyers can cancel the agreement if owners fail to meet specific requirements, such as repair or maintenance.
Usually, a leak doesn’t happen overnight. Instead, it’s a product of gradual damage to the pipes or lack of routine maintenance. So that homeowners can avoid spending more on repairs, they better take care of it as soon as possible.
