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Emergency Quick Fixes for Frozen or Leaking Pipes
Most leaks occur at pipe fittings. More serious fractures can occur in other locations and often result from corrosion, dents or freezing. Temporary fixes generally involve using epoxy patches or clamps. Permanent repairs usually involve repair or compression couplings, or replacement of the damaged fitting or pipe section altogether. This guide will help you make quick fixes in the event of an emergency.
IMPORTANT: Never leave a temporary fix installed behind a
permanent wall. Remember, quick fixes are only temporary solutions and you
should repair a leak properly as soon as possible.
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Quick Fix Using Clamps
Step One
| Prepare the Surface |
| 1. | Clean the area around the rupture. |
| 2. | File down any sharp edges that might cut through the patch. |
Step Two
| Apply the Patch |
| 1. | If not using a repair clamp, cut a neoprene or rubber patch to the size needed to repair the leak. For a pinhole leak, cut a 1-inch square – for a lager fracture cut a patch that is 1-inch wider and 1-inch longer than the split in the pipe. Note: a custom cut neoprene or rubber patch will only work for small fractures. |
| 2. | Apply the repair clamp or neoprene / rubber patch so it evenly overlaps the damaged pipe section. Hold the neoprene or rubber patch in place with hose clamps. |
| 3. | Tighten the clamps to seal the leak. |
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