North Las Vegas Leak Detection and Repair — 3 Fast Fixes

Estimated Read Time: 9 minutes

A sudden drip can turn into damage fast. If you are wondering how to fix a leaking pipe, this guide walks you through three quick methods you can use right now, plus when to call a pro. For slab, wall, and underground leaks, Sierra Air Conditioning & Plumbing offers free or waived diagnostics with same-day service if you book by 6 PM. Keep reading to stop the leak and protect your home.

Before You Start: Safety, Shutoff, and Smart Decisions

A small leak can become a burst if handled the wrong way. Start by turning off the nearest shutoff valve. If you cannot locate it, use the main house shutoff. Open a nearby faucet to relieve pressure. Place a bucket and towels under the leak. If water is near electrical outlets or appliances, cut power at the breaker and stop DIY until the area is safe.

Decide whether to DIY or call a licensed plumber. DIY works for small pinholes, dripping joints, or accessible supply lines. Call a pro if you see any of the following:

1. Water stains and hot spots on flooring that suggest a slab leak.
2. Continuous meter movement with all fixtures off.
3. Ceiling or wall swelling, or any leak you cannot see.
4. Sewer odors, gurgling, or slow drains that point to drain line damage.

Sierra’s plumbing team uses non destructive diagnostics like video inspection and ultrasonic leak detection to find hidden leaks without tearing up your home. Same-day help is available when you book by 6 PM.

Method 1: Epoxy Putty and Fiberglass Wrap for Pinholes and Hairline Cracks

Epoxy putty is a fast, effective temporary fix for small leaks on copper, PVC, CPVC, or galvanized lines. It hardens like steel and can last months, but treat it as a bridge to a proper repair.

Steps:

1. Turn off water and dry the pipe thoroughly. Lightly sand the area for better adhesion.
2. Knead a piece of epoxy putty until uniform in color.
3. Press the putty over the leak, molding it 1 inch beyond the hole in all directions.
4. For added strength, wrap a fiberglass repair tape over the putty and activate per package directions.
5. Let cure fully before restoring water.

Tips:

1. Do not apply on pressurized lines. Always depressurize first.
2. If the pipe is pitted or corroded, plan to replace that section. Putty buys time only.
3. If the leak returns or grows, call Sierra for same-day diagnostics. Diagnostic fees are waived if we perform the repair.

Method 2: Compression Coupling or Push-to-Connect Fitting for Split Sections

For a split, a cracked joint, or a removed bad section, a no-solder coupling can save the day. Compression and push-to-connect fittings work on copper, CPVC, and PEX when sized correctly.

Steps:

1. Shut water off and drain the line. Mark the damaged area.
2. Use a pipe cutter to remove the damaged section. Cut square, then deburr and smooth the ends.
3. For compression couplings: slide the nut and ferrule on both pipe ends, insert the coupling, then tighten evenly.
4. For push-to-connect fittings: mark the insertion depth and push until the mark is flush with the fitting.
5. Turn water on slowly and check for drips. Re tighten compression fittings if needed.

Best uses:

1. Mid-run splits where you can expose 2 to 4 inches of good pipe.
2. Emergency restorations when you cannot solder or wait for glue cure times.
3. Mobile or rental scenarios where speed and reliability are critical.

Method 3: Proper Pipe Section Replacement for a Long-Lasting Fix

Permanent repairs replace the compromised section with materials and methods that match code. The steps vary by pipe type.

For copper:

1. Cut out the damaged section and clean the ends with an abrasive cloth.
2. Dry fit couplings and the new piece. Apply lead-free flux.
3. Heat the joint and feed solder until it rings the joint fully. Clean and cool.

For CPVC or PVC:

1. Cut square and deburr. Dry fit new parts.
2. For PVC: use primer, then apply solvent cement to pipe and fitting. Insert with a quarter turn.
3. For CPVC: use CPVC-rated cement per manufacturer directions.

For PEX:

1. Use crimp, clamp, or push-to-connect fittings approved for the pipe brand.
2. Verify the tool is calibrated and the ring is fully engaged.

When to call a pro: If the line is in a wall, ceiling, or slab, or if you see multiple weak spots, professional diagnostics can prevent repeat failures. Sierra’s team offers camera inspection and ultrasonic leak detection to pinpoint the true source so you repair once and right.

Finding the Real Source of the Leak

Water travels. A drip may appear far from the failure. Use these checks before you open a wall or ceiling:

1. Meter test. Turn off all fixtures and appliances. If the water meter still moves, you likely have a hidden supply leak.
2. Temperature check. Warm spots on floors can signal a hot water slab leak.
3. Dye test. For drains, add food coloring to a fixture. Colored water outside the fixture points to a drain or seal leak.
4. Valve isolation. Shut individual fixture valves to narrow the zone.

Sierra’s non destructive approach uses video inspection and ultrasonic detection to avoid unnecessary demolition. We also offer trenchless sewer line repair and relining to minimize digging when drain lines fail.

Special Cases: Under-Sink, Toilets, Hose Bibbs, and Appliances

Under-sink P-trap drips:

1. Tighten slip nuts by hand, then with a quarter turn of pliers.
2. Replace worn washers or the trap if cracking is visible.

Toilet supply and tank leaks:

1. Replace the braided supply line and shutoff if corroded.
2. For a sweating tank, consider a mixing valve or insulated tank.

Hose bibb leaks:

1. Replace stem packing or the vacuum breaker. If the wall is wet, a split pipe may be behind the stucco, which needs a professional fix.

Appliance lines:

1. Ice maker and washing machine hoses should be stainless braided and dated. Replace every 5 years.

If you find swelling drywall, spongy baseboards, or buckled flooring, book same-day leak detection. Sierra waives diagnostic fees when we perform the repair.

Preventing Future Leaks in Las Vegas Homes

Two local realities stress pipes in Clark County: long cooling seasons and hard water. Pressure spikes, heat, and mineral buildup can weaken joints and valves. Take these steps:

1. Add or replace a pressure reducing valve if static pressure exceeds recommended levels for fixtures.
2. Install water hammer arrestors on fast-closing valves like washers and ice makers.
3. Use stainless braided supplies, not basic rubber.
4. Flush your water heater annually to reduce sediment that can drive up pressure and damage lines.
5. Join a maintenance plan. Sierra’s S.A.M. Plan includes four annual visits, 15% repair discounts, priority calls, same-day parts replacement, exclusive warranties, and service credits.

The Cost of Waiting vs. Acting Now

A slow drip can cost hundreds in wasted water and thousands in repairs if it spreads. Insurance often covers sudden and accidental water damage, but not long-term neglect. Document the issue with photos and keep receipts for materials and professional visits. If you suspect a slab or sewer leak, fast diagnostics can save flooring, cabinets, and landscaping.

Hard facts to guide your decision:

1. Sierra has served local homeowners since 1987 and maintains BBB A+ accreditation.
2. Same-day service is available when you book by 6 PM, and diagnostic fees are waived if we perform the repair.

Why Homeowners Choose Sierra for Leak Detection and Repair

When the leak is hidden in your walls, under your lawn, or below your foundation, our team uses reconnaissance first. Video camera inspections, ultrasonic leak detection, and other techniques locate the problem without unnecessary demolition. If you need repair, we offer options from simple section replacement to trenchless sewer repair and pipe relining.

What you can expect on a Sierra visit:

1. We come to your home and diagnose why the pipes are leaking.
2. We provide a comprehensive report and show you the photos and video.
3. We present personalized solutions and pricing. If we do the work, we waive the diagnostic charge.
4. Financing is available for larger water or sewer projects. Many installs are as low as affordable monthly payments, subject to approval.

Our 100% satisfaction guarantee, thousands of positive reviews, and Best of Las Vegas awards show you can trust the result.

DIY vs. Pro: A Simple Decision Tree

Use DIY if:

1. The leak is visible and accessible on a supply line or trap.
2. You have the right tools and can shut off water safely.

Call Sierra if:

1. The source is not obvious, or leaks reappear after a DIY fix.
2. You see slab symptoms, sewer odors, or meter movement.
3. Water is near electrical, or the area is unsafe.

A smart approach is to stabilize the leak with a temporary method, then schedule a free or waived diagnostic to confirm there is not a deeper issue.

Special Offers for Leak Detection and Repair

• Free Leak Detection Service + Same Day Service. Call (702) 710-9106 to schedule. If booked by 6 PM, same-day service is available. If we do the work, we will waive the diagnostic charge. Call for conditions and restrictions.
• Free Slab Leak Detection Service + Same Day Service. Expires 2025-12-03. If we do the work, we will waive the diagnostic charge. Call (702) 710-9106 for details and availability.

What Homeowners Are Saying

"Monterio and his assistant offered to assist all the plumbing in the house... He also completed several different repair options that I could choose from... The repairs were completed professionally and quickly."
–Amber Z., Leak Repair

"I had a tub leak which several other plumbers were unable to fix. Miguel kept working c and working to stop the leak. I APPRECIATE HIM SO MUCH."
–Suzanne M., Leak Repair

"Melvin came and was professional and efficient. He explained all of his findings and fixed the leak. Another excellent experience with Sierra!"
–Paige B., Leak Repair

"Richie was very helpful and nice. He stopped a bad water leak in our backyard."
–Allmightyfreak22 ., Leak Repair

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a leak is in the slab or just a surface drip?

Warm floor spots, running water sounds with fixtures off, or meter movement often point to a slab leak. Surface drips usually show near fixtures. Schedule non destructive diagnostics to be sure.

Will you have to tear up my floors or walls to find a hidden leak?

Not usually. We use video inspection and ultrasonic leak detection to locate leaks without unnecessary demolition. If access is needed, we keep openings minimal and clean up after.

How long will an epoxy putty repair last?

It is a temporary fix intended to buy time. It can hold for weeks or months, but replacement of the damaged section is the long-term solution.

Do you waive the diagnostic fee if you do the repair?

Yes. If we perform the repair after our diagnostic, the diagnostic charge is waived. Call for conditions and restrictions.

Can you repair sewer or drain leaks without digging up my yard?

Yes. We offer trenchless sewer line repair and pipe relining when conditions allow, which minimizes digging and disruption.

Bottom Line

You now know how to fix a leaking pipe using epoxy and wrap, no-solder couplings, or a proper section replacement. If the leak is hidden, grows, or involves a slab or sewer, call Sierra Air Conditioning & Plumbing for how to fix a leaking pipe in Las Vegas the right way. Same-day slots go fast.

Ready to Stop the Leak?

Call (702) 710-9106, visit https://sierracoolslv.com/, or schedule online today. Mention our Free Leak Detection Service or Free Slab Leak Detection Service. Book by 6 PM for same-day service. 100% satisfaction guaranteed.

Call now: (702) 710-9106 | Book online: https://sierracoolslv.com/ | Active offers: Free Leak Detection Service, Free Slab Leak Detection Service. Book by 6 PM for same-day service.

About Sierra Air Conditioning & Plumbing

Since 1987, Sierra Air Conditioning & Plumbing has protected Las Vegas homes with expert HVAC and plumbing service. We are BBB A+ accredited, Best of Las Vegas Gold and Silver award winners, and a Lennox Premier Dealer. Homeowners choose us for 24/7 emergency response, same-day service when booked by 6 PM, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Our plumbers use video and ultrasonic leak detection, trenchless sewer repair, and offer financing and maintenance plans for year-round peace of mind.