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Question
I have a hot water pipe that is suspected to be broken and I am trying to locate it. I have followed the pipe from the water heater into the drywall, to the floor and I am now in the process of removing tiles. Under the tiles it looks like there is cement. Is that just residual grout from the tiles and there is wood underneath? I have scrapped away some of it and have found the head of a nail. I'm trying to decide if I need to continue or call a plumber.
Submitted: 43 days and 7 hours ago.
Category: Home Improvement
Value: $15
Status: CLOSED
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Posted by
Rick
43 days and 7 hours ago.
Answer
Hi XXXXXXXXX
The cement you see is probably tile backer board. If you don't have a grinder you will porbably need to remove an entire sheet (usually 3' x 5'). It may be easier to attack the problem from below. If you can find the leak it will save you the cost of paying for the plumber to find it even if you have to pay him to fix it.
43 days and 7 hours ago.
Reply
I have a grout removal tool, will that work for scrapping it away? And if so, underneath should be the wood, and the pipe should be running under there? Am I close to understanding?
Posted by
Rick
43 days and 7 hours ago.
Answer
You have to cut it out. Its probably a 1/2 (could be 1/4") thick board with nylon mesh. If your tool will cut through it give it a shot.
Yes there should be plywood under the backer and pipes could be run in the floor but not necessarily. That's why if this is over a finished ceiling it's best to cut out the ceiling where the water is showing if it's accessible.
Posted by
Rick
43 days and 7 hours ago.
Answer
You have to cut it out. Its probably a 1/2 (could be 1/4") thick board with nylon mesh. If your tool will cut through it give it a shot.
Yes there should be plywood under the backer and pipes could be run in the floor but not necessarily. That's why if this is over a finished ceiling it's best to cut out the ceiling where the water is showing if it's accessible.
43 days and 7 hours ago.
Reply
This problem is not in the ceiling. It,s on the lower floor and I cannot get under the house. The only way I see to do this is through the tile and then creating a hole in the floor so I can get access to the pipe. I hoping the pipe is underneath the wood because thats were the water is coming from. I have an entire section of carpet that is soaked and ruined and no hot water. I just wanted to ensure that this could be done through amature home repair because I am not a pro. Am I getting in too deep or can this be done with some hard work and sweat and be cost efficient?
Accepted Answer
You might want to call in a pro. He will be better at finding the leak and should be able to get to it with minimal damage. You could then put things back together afterwards if you are so inclined.
Expert:
Rick
Pos. Feedback:
100.0 %
Accepts:
Answered:
10/8/2009
General C&ontractor
Licensed Construction Supervisor & Remodeling Contractor 35+ years experience
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