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Best Way to Repair Pinhole Leaks in Copper Pipe

I have had two (2) copper water piping leaks in my basement that are very expensive to repair with a plumbing company. On one occasion the plumber sealed it (pin hole) and used a new shut-off near the site. The…

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Repairing a leaking pipe

I have had two (2) copper water piping leaks in my basement that are very expensive to repair with a plumbing company. On one occasion the plumber sealed it (pin hole) and used a new shut-off near the site. The second time he sealed the pin hole at the site.

Being on a fixed-income and disabled, it gets difficult to afford these recurring types of expenses. The plumber suggested using an alternative pipe and replacing the entire copper system?

This is beautiful 1940 Cape and I want to try to maintain it. I also wonder when such leakage takes place, is Asbestos like floor tiles or overhead piping an indoor health issue?

Our Answer

Jack, sorry to hear about your pinhole leaks!  These holes most form because of the corrosive effect of acidity in your water supply. We’ve explained the extent of the copper pinhole leak problem here.

Your plumber may be right in advising that the defective pipes be replaced. The fact that you have had to suffer through two repairs is also of concern as the problem will not go away.

The best long-term solution therefore is to replace the copper pipes that leak with PEX, a type of plumbing pipe that is much easier to install than copper and virtually indestructible.  How much of your plumbing your preplace is up to you, however, one approach would be to replace the easiest to access plumbing first, and thereafter replace plumbing as it either failed, or becomes accessible because of a remodeling project.

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