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    Fr0StBite's Avatar
    Fr0StBite Posts: 8, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Aug 19, 2009, 09:12 AM
    How do I find a basement ceiling leak?
    I believe I may have a leak somewhere in my basement ceiling. I can hear water dripping after the water has been running on the main floor of the house. Is there anyway I can detect where it is coming from? I want to find the exact spot where the leak is occurring.
    I do not see any spots or damage on the ceiling anywhere.


    Thanks.
    creahands's Avatar
    creahands Posts: 2,854, Reputation: 195
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    #2

    Aug 19, 2009, 09:50 AM

    What is finish on ceiling? S/R Plaster Tile

    Does the dripping sound happen with all faucets ( tub, lav, or shower) and when toilets are flushed?

    Chuck
    ballengerb1's Avatar
    ballengerb1 Posts: 27,378, Reputation: 2280
    Home Repair & Remodeling Expert
    		  
    #3

    Aug 19, 2009, 09:56 AM

    If you actually have a leak just let the water eventually find its way through the ceiling, you'll need to tear some of it out anyway since mold starts within 48 hours. Once the ceiling is open you can trace it better. In the meantime you could try using one fixture at a time to narrow it down, likely a drain
    Fr0StBite's Avatar
    Fr0StBite Posts: 8, Reputation: 1
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    #4

    Aug 19, 2009, 10:03 AM

    The ceiling is drywall and plaster. I believe the dripping sound is only when the kitchen hot water tap has been turned on for more than a minute or so. This has been going on for a very long time so do I even have a leak or is it condensation on the pipes?
    ballengerb1's Avatar
    ballengerb1 Posts: 27,378, Reputation: 2280
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    #5

    Aug 19, 2009, 10:07 AM

    You get most condensation on cold pipes not your hot supply so I doubt its condensation. It very well could be expansion of the pipe and rubbing on studs is making a noise similar to a drip sound. If you have no visible leak or water just don't do anything at this point.
    Fr0StBite's Avatar
    Fr0StBite Posts: 8, Reputation: 1
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    #6

    Aug 19, 2009, 10:09 AM
    Thank you very much ballengerb1 that makes a lot of sense to me.
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