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How to fix a leaky pipe

We'll fix the leak at the joint, crack, or pinhole—or tell you when to call a pro.

How-to · Home plumbing
15–45 min
What you'll need
  • Adjustable wrench or pipe wrench
  • Pipe repair clamp (for cracks or pinholes)
  • Epoxy putty (alternative for small leaks)
  • Towels or bucket (to catch water)

At a glance

  • Shut off the water supply to the leaking section before attempting any repair.
  • For loose joints: tighten the nut or fitting with a wrench—do not overtighten compression fittings.
  • For a small crack or pinhole: use a pipe repair clamp or epoxy putty as a temporary fix.
  • For a bad joint: cut out the section and replace with a new fitting and pipe (or call a plumber for soldering).
  • Call a plumber if the leak is on the main line, you have galvanized pipe, or the repair is beyond your comfort level.
Quick triage — pick your path

Get started

Choose the option that matches what you see. You can jump straight to that section.

Steps

Goal: Stop the leak safely—joint, crack, or pinhole.

  • Shut off the water supply. Identify where the leak is—joint or pipe body.
  • Good: Water is off. Proceed to Joint leak or Pipe body leak.
  • Bad: Cannot shut off the water—call a plumber.

Joint leak

Goal: Tighten or reseal the connection.

  • Snug the nut or fitting with a wrench. Quarter turn. Do not overtighten.
  • Good: Drip stops. Proceed to Verification.
  • Bad: Still leaks—the gasket may be bad. Replace the gasket or the fitting.

Pipe body leak

Goal: Seal a crack or pinhole with a clamp or epoxy.

  • Use a pipe repair clamp over the leak, or epoxy putty. Follow product instructions.
  • Good: No drip when water is on. Proceed to Verification.
  • Bad: Still leaks—the damage may be worse. Replace the section or call a plumber.

When to get help

Call a plumber if:

  • The leak is on the main supply line.
  • You have galvanized pipe—it often needs replacement, not repair.
  • The repair clamp or epoxy does not hold.
  • You are not comfortable with the repair.

Verification

  • No drip or spray when the water is on.
  • The repaired area stays dry for at least 24 hours.
  • No new leaks at nearby joints from the repair work.

Reviewed by Blackbox Atlas

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