Pin-hole Leaks
Pin-hole Leaks | Main Line Issues | Plumbing | Elora
A tiny pin-hole leak can feel like a ticking clock for your Elora home—one moment it’s a harmless drip, the next it’s a soaked drywall, warped flooring, and an unwelcome spike in your water bill. HEP’s licensed plumbers track down these stealthy breaches with precision equipment, then repair or replace the damaged section of pipe before hidden corrosion spreads. Whether the pipe runs behind an older stone foundation or under a recently renovated kitchen, we work cleanly, quickly, and always keep you in the loop.
If your pin-hole leak has uncovered bigger main line issues, our crew is equipped to tackle those too. From high-definition camera inspections to trenchless line replacements, we restore full flow without turning your yard into a construction zone. Call HEP in Elora today and let our trusted pros turn that nagging drip into a distant memory—so you can get back to enjoying the Grand River, not worrying about it flowing through your basement.
FAQs
What causes pin-hole leaks in the main water line of homes in Elora?
Pin-hole leaks are tiny perforations that develop in copper, PEX, or galvanized steel pipes. In Elora, the leading contributors are: 1) water chemistry—Elora’s municipal supply is slightly hard and can contain dissolved minerals that promote internal pitting; 2) high water velocity, especially in smaller-diameter sections, which erodes pipe walls; 3) stray electrical current or improper grounding that accelerates corrosion on copper lines; and 4) normal pipe aging. Over time, these factors weaken the pipe wall until a small “pin-hole” forms and starts leaking.
How can I tell if my main line has a pin-hole leak?
Warning signs include: • An unexplained increase in your water bill. • The sound of water running when all fixtures are off. • Damp spots, mildew, or warm areas on basement floors or walls. • Reduced water pressure at multiple fixtures. • Rust-coloured or cloudy water when you first turn on the tap. If you notice any of these, schedule an inspection promptly; even a 1/16-inch hole can waste thousands of litres per day and undermine your home’s foundation.
Are pin-hole leaks dangerous, or can I wait to fix them?
Waiting is risky. Pin-hole leaks rarely stay small; the pipe wall around the hole is already compromised and will continue to erode. A minor seep can become a major rupture, causing flooding, structural damage, mould growth, and potential contamination of your drinking water. Insurance policies often exclude damage caused by deferred maintenance, so prompt repair protects both your property and your coverage.
What repair options are available for pin-hole leaks in Elora?
Depending on the pipe’s material, location, and overall condition, we typically recommend one of three solutions: 1) Spot repair—cutting out the damaged section and sweating or crimping in a new section of pipe; 2) Pipe-lining—installing an epoxy liner inside the existing pipe when excavation is impractical; 3) Full replacement—running a new PEX or copper main line from the street shut-off to the house. Our technician will perform a pressure test, camera inspection, and water-quality analysis to help you choose the most cost-effective and durable option.
How much does it cost and how long will the repair take?
For a typical Elora residence: • Spot repairs on an exposed main line usually range from $300–$600 and take 2–4 hours. • Epoxy pipe-lining starts around $1,500 and is completed in one day. • Full line replacement averages $2,000–$4,500, depending on length, material, and excavation needs, and is usually finished within one to two days. We provide upfront, itemized quotes so there are no surprises.
Can pin-hole leaks be prevented in the future?
Yes. 1) Install a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) if your static pressure exceeds 60 psi; high pressure accelerates wear. 2) Add a whole-house water softener or filtration system to reduce mineral buildup and corrosive compounds. 3) Make sure your electrical system is properly grounded to avoid stray current corrosion. 4) Schedule an annual plumbing inspection that includes pressure testing and thermal imaging. 5) Replace aging sections of pipe proactively—copper older than 40–50 years or galvanized steel older than 30 years is at higher risk. These measures dramatically reduce the likelihood of future pin-hole leaks.