How to Stop Dripping Water Pipes

Stop Sweating Water Pipes

Introduction:

If you have dripping or sweating water pipes you can stop it before they cause a larger problem. Most every home has a basement moisture problem. Pipe sweating and dripping is just one symptom of excessive dampness in the basement. Even basements that don’t have a visible water leak share the misery of water pipe condensation that drips all over everything that is below it. This is caused by water vapor in the ground that forces its way through the floor and foundation walls. This water vapor becomes water again when it contacts cold surfaces such as cold water pipes.

Most home builders try to prevent this problem by installing plastic vapor barriers under the concrete floor and coating the exterior concrete walls with waterproof sealers. However, these efforts are not perfect at keeping out water vapor.

The following are some actions you can take to lower basement moisture levels and stop dripping water pipes.

How to stop dripping water pipes:

1. Some waterproofing compounds will eliminate minor water or moisture leaks although the best is hydraulic cement or concrete patching compound that is applied directly to the walls. Hydraulic cement is designed to repair actively leaking areas while the patching compound can be used for damp areas where there is no flowing water.

2. If your home has severe and persistent water leaks more extreme measures may be needed to be taken that involve either interior or exterior drains may be needed. This can be a complicated and expensive procedure. Consult a professional waterproofing contractor before you decide to go this route as there are other ways to repair serious water problems.

3. Check the exterior of the house for moisture problems near the foundation walls.

4. Blocked or damaged, or missing gutters are a common source of foundation moisture. Clean the gutters regularly and be sure gutters drain the water away from the house. Install additional gutters if necessary.

5. Vegetation planted near the foundation is another potential problem for moisture collection on the foundation walls. The roots and soil hold moisture that does not allow the ground to dry out.

6. Check to see if there are low spots in the ground grade near the foundation. If change of the grade is needed there are many ways to so such as simply adding and compacting soil near the foundation or installing a French drain system.

7. Wrap all the cold water pipes and the water tanks. This is the easiest and most direct solution to prevent condensation on cold surfaces and dripping water pipes. The pipe wrap prevent the moist air from reaching the pipes. Do not use fiberglass pipe wrap as it will absorb water. Use a plastic foam pipe wrap which is available in various lengths. Wrap the water tank in a plastic foam wrap or water heater blanket.

8. Use a dehumidifier if you have a finished basement with potted plants and little ventilation. Most basements can benefit by having a dehumidifier to reduce or eliminate basement moisture.

These suggestions will go a long way in reducing basement moisture and stop dripping water pipes.

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