Buzz
When pipes in your home burst or require replacement, it's usually better to call a professional. The process of safely removing old pipes and installing new ones is beyond the skill set of most DIYers. However, certain pipe repairs can be successfully handled by an experienced DIY enthusiast.
For small leaks, pipe patches can be an effective fix. Various patch kits are available at DIY stores, or you can create your own with a c-clamp and a piece of rubber (like from an old inner tube). Epoxy paste or special compounds that seal small holes, or even waterproof tape, can also do the job. Keep in mind that a leak might indicate a more serious problem, such as corrosion or wear, meaning replacing the pipe could be a better solution.
Sometimes, moisture around your pipes isn’t caused by a leak. If the temperature of the water inside the pipes is much colder than the air around them, condensation may form, causing the pipes to 'sweat' and creating wet spots. This issue is often easily resolved by insulating the pipes or wrapping them with 'drip' tape.
In freezing temperatures, water in your pipes can freeze. Since water expands as it freezes, it can put immense pressure on the pipes, potentially causing them to burst. If you encounter frozen pipes, you can thaw them yourself using methods such as heavy towels and hot water (though messy), a blow torch (effective, but risky), or a hairdryer or heat lamp (safe, but slower). No matter which method you choose, remember to open the faucet first to allow steam and melted water to escape.
To stop noisy pipes, you can secure them more tightly or wrap them to prevent them from banging when they move. If your hot water pipes are making a 'knocking' sound, simply lowering the thermostat can often solve the problem.
