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Our co-op is about 35 years old. They are 2 story brickfaced garden apts. On average for the last few years we have had to repair at least a dozen pinhole pipe leaks a year from copper pipes that run through the ceiling between the up and downstairs apts. Any information about why these leaks would occur and/or how to prevent them would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
GM
Thanks you RLM for responding. We recently had tests done and are currently digesting the lengthy report.
GM
There are numerous conditions than can give rise to pinhole leaks.
Galvanic action can occur wherein copper and a dissimilar metal create an electrical current that slowly erodes the copper. Hanging straps of galvanized metal can lead to such galvanic action.
Expansion and contraction of the building (winter vs. summer) can flex the copper to the point where the material begins to deteriorate and then fail. In our 22 story, forty-five year old high-rise, we have expansion joints that are designed to flex (expand and contract) as the building changes in size. Over the last five years we have had failures of these joints and we are nearly finished with out 96 pair replacement program. In as much as the same piping system is employed for cold water in the summer and hot water in the winter, we have but one week at change of season time to drain the system and effect replacements.
There are other causes, e.g.: nails protruding through the walls/floors on which the copper “rubs” and then fails, not to mention galvanic action if the nail steel.
More importantly, what has your licensed plumber reported to you as to the cause of the leaks”?
Thank you Ted-NJ for your response. Our plumber has not been too helpful. I will share your information with our Board and with our plumber.
GM
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Have you had any tests done on the piping? Perhaps it's substandard material.
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