Leaking Pipe Behind Drywall

When you suspect a problem with a leaking pipe behind the drywall in your home, it’s time to investigate. The source of the leak may not be where the damage is visible, and you must track down the likely origin of the problem. This investigation may mean checking roof areas as well as upstairs bathrooms in hopes of finding a leak that is more easily accessible. If not, you will have to remove the drywall from the suspected source and replace it after repairing the plumbing problem.

Jigsaw
Length of rubber hose
Knife
Metal clamps the same diameter as your pipe
Epoxy pipe wrap kit

Instructions

- 1
  Isolate the leak by using another bathroom to determine whether the leak is from shower or bathtub water lines or drains.
- 2
  Run the water and listen for the sound of hissing, gurgling or dripping inside the drywall.
- 3
  Look for access panels that allow you to reach the water pipes without damaging drywall.
- 4
  Cut into the drywall with a jigsaw, if necessary, removing a panel around the suspected leak in an area. Make the opening large enough to maneuver to remove a section of pipe or to seal the leak.
- 5
  Follow the pipe to the source of the leak. Some pinhole leaks may be tiny and impossible to see. Touch the pipe with your fingers along its length until you reach a dry area. Your leak will be below this point.
- 6
  Turn off the water to the house, and dry the pipe carefully.
- 7
  Apply epoxy pipe sealer to a small leak, and wrap the pipe with tape according to manufacturer’s instructions.
- 8
  Allow the sealer to dry thoroughly before restoring water flow to the pipe.

Setting a Toilet on Laminate

How to Cut an Access Panel in a Tile Wall

Plumbing