Why are Water Leaks Common During the Holidays?

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Water leaks can be commonly found during the holiday season for several reasons.

1. Families take a vacation and return to find a water stain in the ceiling, a faulity water heater, and toilet leaking. Did the house throw a party while you were gone? What happened? Well, why you were gone water sat in galvenized pipes. Now, it becomes just a middle school science lesson: Water + air + metal= rust. Pinhole leaks form as a result of extended periods of non-running water throughout the house. Over a string of vacations, the rust only gets worse and finally there is the straw that breaks the camel's back and water begins to leak out noticeably. PREVENT: Periodically running water through pipe lines that are rarely used prior to leaving on vacation. Check water lines carefully under sinks and exposed areas for small leaks that could turn into greater problems if left unaddressed. 
2. Extended family and friends come in town and use bathtubs that are seldom used. Again, just like above, pinhole leaks can form as result of water sitting in lines over an extended period of time. The bathtub is only used when guests come over and as a result the pipe lines are vulnerable for rust to accumulate. When the bathtub water is turned are, water pressure is introduced in the rarely used lines and pinhole leaks are revealed through water leaks. Toilets not used over extended periods of time are also vulnerable to this. PREVENT: Periodically run water through pipe lines that are rarely used. Look for rust in the bathtub drain. If there is any red or brown areas around the metal, there is a great chance of greater damage underneath the tub.
3. Weather changes. This one is a little more obvious. In Southern California we enter our rainy season in the winter. Rains always reveal faulty roofs and areas in the house such as exterior doors and windows with poor caulking that allow water to enter the house. In some areas, snow can form on rooftops and when melting reveal the same type of issues. Freezing pipes are always an obvious concern in the winter months. Water in the lines, freeze, expand, and cracks the pips causing leaks when it thaws. PREVENT: Problems can be prevented with proper weatherizing if the house is left vacant over an extended period of time. Also, it is a good idea to keep running water through all pipe lines. Also, if leaving for an extended time, leave central heating on low.