Leak Detection Services
Hidden leaks can waste water, cause structural damage, and lead to costly repairs if not addressed quickly. On The Way Plumbing specializes in precise, non-invasive leak detection to identify and fix leaks before they escalate. As part of a full-service restoration company, we don’t just fix the problem—we mobilize an emergency crew to contain damage while your plumber is on the way. One call, fast response, complete recovery.
What Qualifies as a Plumbing Emergency?
Leaks aren’t always obvious, but catching them early can prevent major damage. If left undetected, even a small leak can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and high water bills. Here’s what to watch for:
Running water sounds
If you hear water moving through pipes when no taps or appliances are in use, it could mean a hidden leak is present inside your walls or beneath your floors.
Unexplained increase in your water bill
A sudden spike in water usage without any changes in your habits could indicate a leak hidden behind walls or underground.
Damp spots, mold, or mildew growth
Excess moisture from a leak can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can lead to health concerns and structural issues.
Even small leaks can turn into costly repairs if left unchecked.
If you notice any of these warning signs, call 503-741-7500 to schedule a professional leak detection service.
How We Find & Detect Leaks
We use advanced tools and expert diagnostics to locate leaks with minimal disruption.
Pinpointing the Source
Leak Diagnostics
Our techniques help us find leaks efficiently without tearing into walls or floors:
- Acoustic listening devices to detect water movement behind walls
- Thermal imaging to spot hidden moisture
- Pressure testing to identify underground leaks
Tip: Shut off all water fixtures and check your water meter—if it’s still running, you may have a hidden leak.
Minimally Invasive Leak Repair
Targeted Repairs
Once we find the leak, we focus on fixing it with minimal disruption:
- Pipe patching and joint repairs for small leaks
- Pipe re-routing when necessary for hard-to-access leaks
- Whole-home repiping solutions for aging or failing plumbing systems
Tip: If your home has older pipes, replacing sections before they fail can save thousands.
Minimizing damages to your home
Controlled Demolition
If accessing the leak requires opening a wall or floor, we keep demolition to a minimum:
- Strategic access points to reduce disruption to drywall, flooring, or ceilings
- Clean, efficient work to prevent excess dust and debris in your home
- Seamless restoration—our Oregon Restoration repairs team can patch, texture, and match surfaces after the plumbing work is completed
Tip: Our precision-first approach means less mess and faster restoration.
What to Do Before We Arrive
Taking quick action now can minimize damage while waiting for your emergency plumber to arrive.
Shut of your Main Water Supply
If you suspect an active leak, turning off your home’s main water valve can prevent flooding and further water damage. This is especially important if the leak is coming from a pipe inside your walls, under the floor, or in the ceiling.
Look for visible signs of water damage
Even if you can’t see the leak itself, water stains, pooling water, or damp spots can help indicate where the problem is. Check under sinks, around water heaters, behind appliances, and along baseboards for signs of moisture, mold, or musty odors.
Avoid DIY repairs
While it may be tempting to patch up a leak temporarily, DIY fixes like tape, glue, or putty often make it harder to locate and properly repair the source of the leak. Some quick fixes can even worsen the issue by creating pressure buildup in the pipes.
Frequently asked questions
Leaks can be frustrating and costly, especially when they go unnoticed for too long. We’ve answered some of the most common questions about leak detection below—if you don’t see yours, give us a call at 503-741-7500, and we’ll be happy to help.
How much does leak detection cost?
We charge a two-hour minimum for emergency plumbing at $225 per hour. Most emergencies are resolved within this timeframe. If additional work is needed, we’ll either continue at the hourly rate or provide an estimate for the full scope of repairs before proceeding.
Can you find leaks without tearing into walls?
Yes! We use non-invasive detection methods like thermal imaging cameras to locate leaks with minimal disruption.
What happens after a leak is found?
Once we pinpoint the leak, we’ll discuss repair options. Some leaks can be fixed immediately, while others may require pipe replacement or repiping. We’ll provide a clear plan before starting any work.
Get in Touch with Us
We Want to Hear From You
Fill out the form below, and our team will get back to you as soon as possible. Whether you’re looking for more information about our services or need urgent help, we’re here to assist you.
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