How to fix leaking metal pipes

Water leaks are one of those frustrating home maintenance issues that always seem to happen when you least expect them. Whether it’s a slow drip under the sink or a crack in a pipe in your loft, even a small leak can lead to damp, mould, and costly damage.

Learning how to fix a leaking metal pipe yourself can save you both time and money - and it’s easier than you might think. In this DIY guide, we’ll show you how to spot the early signs of water leaks and repair them quickly using EVO-STIK Hard & Fast Epoxy Putty, the perfect choice for a DIY metal pipe repair that really lasts.

Leaks can happen for all sorts of reasons, but the most common include:

• Corrosion or ageing pipes
• High water pressure stressing pipe joints
• Poor installation or loose fittings
• Wear and tear over time

Left unchecked, leaks can cause damp, mould growth, and even weaken walls and floors. They can also push up your water bills, so catching them early is key.

The sooner you find a leak, the easier, and cheaper, it is to fix. Keep an eye out for:

• Unexpected increases in your water bill
• Damp patches on walls, floors, or ceilings
• Mouldy or musty smells that won’t go away
• A noticeable drop in water pressure

You can also use your water meter to check for hidden leaks. Turn off all taps and water-using appliances, then check if the meter is still moving - if it is, there’s probably a leak somewhere.

Leaks can appear almost anywhere, but here are a few of the usual places they occur:

• Under-sink pipes and connectors
• Toilet seals and valves
• Showers and baths
• Washing machines and dishwashers
• Outdoor taps and garden hoses

Make it a habit to check these areas regularly. A quick inspection every few months can save you a lot of hassle later.

When you spot a leak, don’t panic - you can often fix it yourself in minutes using EVO-STIK Hard & Fast Epoxy Putty. It’s a two-part epoxy that you knead together by hand. Once mixed, it forms a strong, steel-hard bond that can seal cracks and holes in pipes, even when wet.

What you will need

• EVO-STIK Hard & Fast Epoxy Putty
• A clean cloth or sandpaper
• A bucket or towel (for drips)
• Gloves

Find the nearest valve and shut off the water to the leaking pipe. This prevents any more water from escaping while you work.

Dry the pipe as best you can and remove any rust, dirt, or loose debris with a cloth or a bit of sandpaper. The cleaner the surface, the stronger the repair will be.

Cut off the amount of EVO-STIK Hard & Fast Epoxy Putty you need. Knead it together with your fingers until it becomes a consistent grey colour. It’ll start to warm slightly — that means it’s ready to use.

Press the putty firmly over the crack or hole, moulding it around the pipe to completely cover the damaged area. Smooth it out and make sure it forms a tight seal.

EVO-STIK Hard & Fast Epoxy Putty starts to harden within minutes and can be tapped, drilled, or painted once cured. Leave it to set for around 10 minutes before turning the water back on.

Slowly turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. If no water seeps through, you’ve got yourself a solid, permanent fix.

Once your repair is done, take a few simple steps to avoid leaks coming back:

• Insulate pipes during cold weather to prevent freezing and cracking.
• Check pipe joints regularly for signs of wear or corrosion.
• Maintain appliances like washing machines and dishwashers.
• Install water leak detectors in problem areas like under sinks or in basements.

A little bit of prevention can go a long way toward keeping your home leak-free.

When to call a plumber?

While EVO-STIK Hard & Fast Epoxy Putty is great for most small to medium DIY repairs, some leaks are best left to the pros. If you’ve got:

• Repeated leaks after repairs
• Major water damage
• Hidden or hard-to-reach pipes

…it’s time to call a qualified plumber. Safety and proper repair are always worth it.

With a bit of know-how and EVO-STIK Hard & Fast Epoxy Putty, you can tackle minor leaks quickly and confidently. It’s a handy addition to any DIY toolkit - ideal for fast fixes that last.

So next time you notice a drip or crack, don’t wait for it to get worse. Roll up your sleeves, grab your plumbing repair putty, and sort it yourself - the smart, reliable way.