Top 5 Causes of Water Leaks in Older Homes

What Louisiana Homeowners Need to Know—and How to Prevent Major Damage

Older homes have character, but they often conceal plumbing issues behind their charm. If your house is over 20 years old, you’re more likely to face sneaky leaks that can damage walls, floors, and even your foundation. Here are the top 5 culprits behind water leaks in aging homes—and how to catch them before they lead to expensive repairs.

Aging pipes hidden beneath concrete are a major cause of hidden leaks in older homes.

🔧 1. Aging or Corroded Pipes

🛠️ Common in homes built before the 1990s.

Over time, galvanized steel, copper, and older PVC pipes can corrode, rust, or degrade. Tiny pinhole leaks may not be visible, but they can slowly damage drywall and flooring.

Signs to Watch For:

• Rust-colored water

• Low water pressure

• Discoloration on walls or ceilings

  
  

🌳 2. Tree Root Intrusion

🌿 “That beautiful oak tree may be feeding off your plumbing.”

In older neighborhoods with mature landscaping, tree roots often invade cracked or weakened underground pipes. This intrusion can cause blockages, leaks, or even backflow into the home.

Clues You Might Have This Problem:

• Constant clogging

• Wet patches in the yard

• Slow drains despite cleaning

  
  

🚽 3. Worn-Out Fixture Seals

🚿 Faucets, toilets, and washing machines all have rubber or wax seals that break down over time.

In older homes, these seals often remain unchanged. A worn wax ring on a toilet can leak water beneath your bathroom floor for months without your notice.

Tip: Check under sinks, behind appliances, and around toilets for musty smells or soft flooring.

🏚️ 4. Foundation Shifts and Slab Leaks

📉 Louisiana soil is notorious for shifting foundations.

As slabs move or settle, the water lines beneath them may crack or disconnect. These slab leaks are common in homes built on concrete without a crawlspace.

Red Flags:

• Warm spots on the floor

• Musty smells with no visible leak

• A water bill that keeps rising

  
  

🔍 5. DIY or Outdated Plumbing Repairs

🧰 “Not all past repairs were done right.”

In older homes, previous owners might have made patchwork repairs that were not up to code. Temporary fixes using improper fittings or low-quality materials can deteriorate quickly and sometimes fail unexpectedly.

Smart Move: If you suspect old repairs, schedule a professional inspection before it becomes a bigger problem.

💡 What You Can Do

Even if your home isn’t leaking today, here are some proactive steps to protect it:

• Know where your main shut-off valve is located.

• Check your water bill monthly for any unexplained increases.

• Schedule a routine inspection if your home is over 20 years old or shows any of the signs mentioned above.

• Use professional leak detection tools when DIY signs aren't conclusive.

  
  

🌊 Understanding the Impact of Water Damage

Water damage can be devastating, both structurally and financially. It can lead to mold growth and attract pests, posing health risks to your family. Preventive measures, such as regular maintenance and inspections, can avert costly repairs.

📍 Serving Covington, Baton Rouge, New Orleans & Beyond

At Liberty Leak Detection, we help Louisiana homeowners stay ahead of water damage with fast, non-invasive inspections. Whether you live in a historic shotgun house or a 1980s ranch, we’ll find the leak before it finds your foundation.

📞 Schedule a Leak Check Today

If your home is showing any of these warning signs, don’t wait. Call (866) 731-5325 or Book an Inspection Online to gain peace of mind and protect your investment.

💡 Final Thoughts

Remember, being proactive is key. With the right knowledge and tools, you can keep your older home safe from leaks. Don’t hesitate to act before problems escalate into major issues. Stay vigilant, and your home’s charm will continue to shine.

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