HGTV’s Chris LaMont Shares the Dangers of a Leaking Faucet

Hi, I’m Chris Lamont! I am a real estate developer certified in fire and water damage restoration, a designer, a father, and the cohost of the HGTV show “Buy It or Build It.”   

For the last 10 years, I have had the opportunity to go into people’s homes and see firsthand where water damage and mold damage derive. The number one cause of water damage in homes I see are leaking plumbing fixtures and the waterlines behind them. 

Now that I’m able to share my experiences building or buying houses and remodeling them on HGTV, I like to teach people that using the right equipment, the right people, and having a plan are the most important things when starting your DIY project or getting involved in a renovation. 

A leaking faucet can cause a multitude of issues, not only for your home, but for your wallet and the health and safety of your family. 

Mold

Damp conditions, and water where it is not supposed to be, can cause mold and mildew growth inside your home. And while these patches aren’t pretty, they pose a far greater risk to your health, contributing to respiratory problems such as asthma, sore throat, and sneezing. 

Water Damage

Rust and rot go hand in hand with a leak. Pipes can build up and clog with rust, which is a domino effect for more leaks. As rust builds, the pipes can burst. A leak can also impact the area around your faucet, particularly wood surfaces, damaging floors, cabinets, and walls, which can cause extensive and expensive damage to your home. 

Home for Sale

When water damage is visible, it can lower the market value of your house. Not only are many home buyers wary of buying a water damaged house, but some damage may persist even after immediate issues are solved. 

Drip, Drop

A dripping faucet isn’t just irritating to your ears. It can waste water, and lots of it. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a faucet that drips at the rate of one drip per second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year, or the amount needed for 180 showers. Check out the common causes of a leaky faucet here. 

You can’t always prevent a leak, but having a dependable, high-quality faucet can help prevent some issues and stand the test of time. Made from durable metal and with drip-free ceramic disc valves, Gerber® faucets are made to Set It and Forget It™. 

Browse Gerber faucets here.