Those clamp kits can be a lifesaver in the middle of the night, but I’ve never seen one hold up for more than a few days—maybe a week if you’re lucky and the pressure’s low. Had a call once where someone used duct tape and a hose clamp on a pinhole in copper... by the time I got there, the leak had spread and the drywall was trashed. I get the urge to patch things quick, but honestly, anything not rated for potable water is just asking for trouble down the road. Anyone ever actually had one of those wraps last longer than advertised?
I’ve tried those clamp kits a couple times—honestly, they’re just a band-aid. One time I thought I was clever and doubled up with a rubber patch and two clamps. Lasted maybe four days before I heard the drip again. If you’re lucky, it’ll buy you enough time to get the real fix done, but I wouldn’t trust it for long. Duct tape’s even worse... just makes a mess.
- I get what you mean about the clamp kits—they’re not a permanent fix, but I’ve had mixed results.
- Used one on a copper line under my kitchen sink last month. It held for about a week, which was honestly longer than I expected.
- Duct tape is a total mess, agreed. Tried it once in a panic and ended up with sticky residue everywhere and still had to mop up water.
- I’m curious—has anyone tried those epoxy putty sticks? I keep seeing them at the hardware store, but not sure if they’re any better for a quick patch.
- Also, what’s the best way to actually dry out the pipe before patching? I always feel like there’s still a bit of water left and it messes with the seal.
- For now, I just keep a bucket and towels handy... but I’d love to hear if there’s a better emergency trick.
I’ve actually used those epoxy putty sticks a couple times—once on a pinhole leak in my basement. They’re better than duct tape, but you really have to get the pipe bone dry or it won’t stick right. I usually turn off the water, open a nearby faucet to drain pressure, then hit the pipe with a hair dryer for a few minutes. Still not perfect, but it helps.
I always feel like there’s still a bit of water left and it messes with the seal.
Same here. Anyone ever try using compressed air to blow out the last bit? I’ve thought about it but never had any on hand in an emergency.
I always feel like there’s still a bit of water left and it messes with the seal.
That’s always been my issue too. I did try using a can of compressed air once, like the kind for cleaning keyboards. It worked okay for a small section, but honestly, it didn’t get every drop. What’s helped me more is stuffing a bit of paper towel in the pipe for a minute or two after draining—just to wick out the last bit. Not perfect, but better than nothing. The hair dryer trick helps, but sometimes I think the putty just doesn’t like cold pipes either.