At Rooter Man Plumbing of Charleston, we handle all types of plumbing issues, from the routine to the unexpected. One of the most avoidable problems we encounter happens when a homeowner or renter drills or hammers into a wall without knowing what is behind it.
Recently, we were called to a home where the resident had noticed water stains forming on the drywall and along the floor. It turned out that they had recently installed a wall-mounted shelf using screws. Unfortunately, one of those screws went directly into a waste line that served the upstairs bathroom.
Over time, the screw punctured the pipe just enough to allow wastewater to leak out inside the wall. The damage was caught relatively early, but it still required us to cut open the wall, remove and replace the damaged section of pipe, and coordinate with the homeowner on drywall repair. In addition to the water damage, the open holes in the pipe were also allowing sewer gas to enter the home, which can create health and odor concerns over time.
This kind of issue can happen in any home. What appears to be a blank wall might be hiding plumbing, electrical wires, gas lines, or HVAC components. When you drive a nail or screw into a wall, especially near kitchens, bathrooms, or utility areas, you are always taking a risk if you are not sure what lies behind the surface.
To help avoid costly mistakes, here are a few practical tips to keep in mind:
- Use a quality stud finder that can also detect plumbing and electrical lines
- Be cautious in areas that back up to bathrooms or kitchens, where pipes are likely to be present
- Consider using shorter anchors or screws when mounting lighter items
- When in doubt, consult with a professional who can help you locate hidden utilities
Small holes in a drain pipe can cause ongoing leaks, mold, structural damage, and indoor air quality issues if left unchecked. What starts as a simple DIY project can quickly turn into an unexpected repair.
If you are planning to hang something and are unsure about what is behind your walls, or if you notice staining, soft spots, or strange odors, Rooter Man Plumbing of Charleston is here to help. We can identify the source of the issue and make the necessary repairs before it becomes a more serious problem.
Protect your home, protect your investment, and take a moment to think before you drill.
