A small leak might not seem like a big deal—until it turns into a major water damage nightmare. Whether it’s a slow drip behind a wall, a hidden slab leak, or an underground pipe issue, undetected leaks can cause mold growth, structural damage, and skyrocketing water bills. Not to mention the affect on your health when your home has excess moisture or potential mold.
Don’t wait until you see water damage—here’s how to spot leaks early and why fixing them now can save you thousands in repairs. This April, Shield Plumbing is helping Tacoma homeowners protect their homes with $50 OFF leak detection & pipe repairs.
Leaks don’t fix themselves. In fact, they only get worse over time, and even minor plumbing issues can result in:
✔ Higher water bills – A single dripping faucet can waste hundreds of gallons of water per year.
✔ Mold & mildew growth – Hidden moisture behind walls and under floors creates the perfect environment for mold.
✔ Structural damage – Over time, water weakens drywall, flooring, and even your home’s foundation.
✔ Burst pipes – A neglected leak can lead to full-blown pipe failure, resulting in costly emergency repairs.
By catching leaks early, you prevent damage before it spirals out of control.
If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s time to schedule a leak detection service with your local plumber ASAP:
If your water bill is suddenly higher than normal but your usage hasn’t changed, you may have a hidden leak in your pipes. Even a slow drip can add up over time.
Dark spots on ceilings, bubbling paint, or peeling wallpaper often indicate water seeping through walls. The longer it goes undetected, the more extensive the damage becomes.
Mold thrives in damp, hidden areas. If you notice musty odors, especially near walls or floors, it’s a sign of excess moisture from an unseen leak. Sometimes mold can start to appear in other areas in your home due to the excess moisture. You can look at places like windowsills, closets, areas around the tub and your kitchen.
If your water pressure suddenly drops, it could mean a pipe is leaking somewhere in your home. Leaks disrupt normal water flow, reducing pressure in sinks and showers.
Hearing water running when everything is turned off? That could mean water is escaping through a hidden crack in your pipes.
If you have a leak on your hot side of the heater, you may notice a shorter, less-warm shower. A water heater leak removes hot water from the water heater faster as you run the shower.
Leaks can develop anywhere in your home’s plumbing system, but here are the most common trouble spots:
✔ Under sinks & behind appliances – Slow leaks from supply lines can cause cabinet damage & mold growth.
✔ Inside walls – Pipe leaks behind drywall can go unnoticed for months, leading to costly structural repairs.
✔ Slab foundations – Tacoma homes with concrete slab foundations are prone to slab leaks, which can be tricky to detect.
✔ Basements & crawl spaces – Undetected moisture can lead to rotting wood, pest problems, and mold buildup.
✔ Water Heaters
With professional leak detection tools, we pinpoint the exact location of leaks without unnecessary demolition or guesswork.
Homeowners often ignore small leaks because they don’t seem urgent. But waiting to fix a leak can cost you thousands in the long run, it’s better to fix the issue now before it gets worse.
Average Cost of Leak Repairs (If Ignored):
By catching leaks early, you avoid expensive repairs and keep your home safe, leak detection services are fast and easy.
At Shield Plumbing, we use state-of-the-art leak detection technology to find and repair leaks quickly—before they cause serious damage. Our expert team is licensed, insured, and trusted by Tacoma homeowners for fast, reliable service.
Don’t wait until a hidden leak turns into a major disaster. If you’ve noticed higher water bills, water stains, or mold growth, it’s time to schedule a professional leak inspection.
Call Shield Plumbing today or book online!