Pressure testing is solid advice, but I’ve run into a few situations where it actually missed a slow leak. Sometimes the pressure drop is so minor it doesn’t register, especially with older galvanized lines or when the leak only happens under certain conditions (like hot water expansion).
“sometimes leaks are sneaky and don’t show any visible signs until there’s already a mess behind the wall.”
That’s the part that always worries me. Ever tried using a borescope before cutting? I’ve had luck snaking one through an outlet box or vent—less invasive than a big hole, and sometimes you spot water stains or corrosion right away. Just curious if anyone else has found that helpful, or if I’m overthinking it.
Borescope’s a smart move, honestly. I borrowed one from a neighbor when I thought I had a leak behind the shower wall—saved me from tearing into drywall for nothing. Not overthinking at all. Those tiny leaks can cost big if you miss 'em. I do wish they weren’t so pricey though...
Title: Making sure your home’s pipes are up to code—how I do it
- Borescopes are a game changer, no doubt. I’ve used mine for everything from checking for corrosion in copper lines to fishing out a lost wedding ring (don’t ask).
- Pricey? Yeah, they’re not cheap, but if you’re doing any kind of regular maintenance or troubleshooting, they pay for themselves. I’ve seen folks spend way more patching up unnecessary holes than what a decent scope costs.
- For anyone on the fence, you don’t need the top-of-the-line model. Even the basic ones with a phone hookup do the trick for most home jobs. Just make sure the camera head is small enough for your pipes—learned that the hard way when mine got stuck in a 1/2" line.
- Tiny leaks are sneaky. I’ve seen pinhole leaks in PEX that looked harmless but ended up causing mold behind the wall. If you catch them early, you’re saving yourself a world of headache (and cash).
- If you’re worried about cost, check if your local tool library or hardware store rents them out. Some places even have community tool shares—beats dropping $100+ for something you’ll use twice a year.
- One thing I’d add: don’t just look for leaks. Check for code issues while you’re at it—unsupported runs, missing clamps, weird junctions. I’ve found more “creative” plumbing behind walls than I care to admit.
- And yeah, sometimes you just gotta trust your gut. If something sounds off or you smell that musty odor, it’s worth poking around with a scope before you start swinging a hammer.
Honestly, I wish I’d had one years ago. Would’ve saved me from a very memorable (and expensive) ceiling repair after a mystery drip turned out to be a leaky upstairs toilet flange. Live and learn...
Couldn’t agree more about borescopes being a game changer. I used to think they were just for pros, but after borrowing one from my uncle, I’m sold. The first time I used it, I found a cracked fitting behind the tub that would’ve been a nightmare to spot otherwise.
“Just make sure the camera head is small enough for your pipes—learned that the hard way when mine got stuck in a 1/2" line.”
Yeah, this is huge. I made the same mistake with a cheapo scope off Amazon. Got it wedged in a tight elbow and spent an hour fishing it out with a coat hanger. Not fun.
A couple things I’d add:
- Don’t forget to check vent lines too. People always focus on supply and drain, but I’ve seen some wild stuff in vent stacks—like random screws or even bird nests (don’t ask).
- If you’re looking for code issues, keep an eye out for double trapping under sinks. Still see that all the time, especially in older houses.
- For anyone worried about damaging the camera, wrap a bit of electrical tape around the head. It helps protect the lens and makes it easier to pull back if you hit a snag.
I do think sometimes people get a little paranoid about tiny leaks though. Not saying ignore them, but not every drip means you need to rip out drywall. Sometimes it’s just condensation or a loose fitting you can tighten up.
Tool libraries are underrated. My local one has saved me so much cash on stuff I only need once in a blue moon. Plus, you get to chat with folks who’ve probably run into the same weird plumbing problems.
Last thing—if you’re poking around and see anything that looks like old galvanized pipe, don’t wait. That stuff’s just waiting to fail. Learned that lesson after replacing half my aunt’s kitchen ceiling...
Anyway, totally agree: borescopes are worth it if you’re doing any kind of regular home maintenance. Just wish I’d started using one sooner.
Making Sure Your Home’s Pipes Are Up To Code—How I Do It
“If you’re looking for code issues, keep an eye out for double trapping under sinks. Still see that all the time, especially in older houses.”
Double traps are sneaky. I spotted one in my own place last month—looked fine at first, but sure enough, there was a hidden S-trap tucked behind the vanity. Also, totally agree about vent lines. First time I ran a camera up ours, I found a LEGO head and a chunk of foam... no clue how either got there.
And yeah, old galvanized pipe is just bad news. The stuff flakes if you even look at it funny. I’d add: when you’re checking supply lines, bring a magnet—if it sticks, you’ve probably got steel or iron lurking in there somewhere. Learned that trick from my boss and it’s saved me more than once.