Fixing Galvanized Pipe Thread Leaks (In-Depth Guide)

Leaks don’t always happen on the walls of a galvanized pipe. Sometimes, this problem may manifest itself along the threads.

If the threads of your galvanized pipe are worn out or the joint isn’t tightly closed, you may notice some leaks. In case you’ve run into the above problem and you’re looking for the best solution, you’ve come to the right place.

I’ll be taking you through the main causes and best remedies for galvanized pipes leaking at the threads. So, let’s get right into it.

threaded galvanized pipes

How to Diagnose Leaks on the Threads of Galvanized Pipe?

Before you channel out your DIY skills, first you need to confirm that the leak on your galvanized pipe is occurring at the threads. Otherwise, you may end up wasting a lot of time focusing on the wrong source of the leak.

Diagnosing a galvanized pipe that’s leaking at the thread is pretty straightforward. All you need to do is carefully examine the threaded connection and check for drops of water or dampness.

To confirm that the leak on your galvanized pipe is coming from the threads, shut off the flow of water along that pipe.

Clean the area and dry it thoroughly. Then place a test paper or tissue paper along that threaded connection and open the water flow.

If it gets wet, then the leak is happening at the threads. You should also listen for hissing sounds because that’s a common sign of a leaking threaded connection.

Having confirmed that your galvanized pipe is leaking at the threads, you can proceed to figure out the cause.

What Causes Galvanized Pipe Leaking at the Threads?

I always advise my readers to figure out the cause of the leak. Because that information significantly determines the ideal remedy.

It also helps you know how to avoid a similar situation in the future. So, here is a list of what causes galvanized pipes to leak at the threads;

• A loose thread connection – If the threaded connection along your galvanized pipe wasn’t securely tightened then leaks are inevitable.

A loose thread connection creates space for water to pass through. To deal with this issue, grab a torque wrench and gently tighten the connection.

• Damaged threads during installation or maintenance – In case the galvanized pipe was recently installed or maintained and it’s leaking along the threads, there is a high chance that they were damaged during installation.

Over-tightening the connection of your galvanized pipes can damage the threads thus making it easier for water to pass through.

• Corrosion – One of the biggest drawbacks of galvanized pipes is that they’re vulnerable to corrosion. Once the zinc coating wears out, corrosion along the threads can lead to leaks. This is one of the main causes of galvanized pipes leaking at the threads.

• Gradual wear and tear of the threads – The threads of any pipe connection are bound to wear out. Environmental factors such as changes in temperature or pipe movements can wear out the threads and it’ll start to leak.

How to Fix a Galvanized Pipe Leaking at the Threads?

There are several approaches you can follow when it comes to repairing galvanized pipes that are leaking at the threads.

I’d recommend exploring all solutions because they are ideal for various scenarios. Let me take you through some of the ways you can repair a galvanized pipe that’s leaking at the threads;

1. If the leak is caused by a weak threaded connection, all you have to do is tighten it. As mentioned earlier, you can use a wrench to tighten both ends. The leaks should stop immediately. Don’t forget the dangers of overtightening a threaded connection.

2. If the threads on your galvanized pipe are slightly worn out or damaged, you can use one of these three methods;

• Install pipe repair clamps – There are pipe repair clamps out there that come with a rubber gasket. They’re very effective at stopping heavy leaks on a threaded connection in a galvanized pipe.

• Utilize thread sealant – This is the most common method of dealing with damaged threads on a galvanized pipe. Get some galvanized pipe-friendly sealant at your local hardware store, apply it over the threads, and connect it.

Let it dry and turn on the water. If you can’t get your hands on some sealant, a pipe joint compound can also get the job done.

• Use pipe repair tape – There is a type of tape commonly used by plumbers known as pipe repair tape. When wrapped around the threaded connection, it forms a watertight seal that prevents any water to pass through.

3. The last method how to fix a galvanized pipe that is leaking at the threads is to replace it completely.

This remedy is more effective when dealing with galvanized pipe threads that are heavily corroded or worn out. It’s also a long-term solution compared to using clamps, sealants, or repair tape.

Unlike these three solutions, a replacement comes with peace of mind knowing that you won’t deal with leaks anytime soon.

To perform this replacement, cut the affected part and replace it with a new galvanized pipe. You can then connect it using a male-to-female adaptor.

threaded galvanized pipes

The Risks of Having a Galvanized Pipe Leaking at the Threads

Having a galvanized pipe that’s leaking at the threads is a pretty big problem. Yes, the amount of drops dripping might be small, but if this issue is not addressed, there’s no telling how much damage can occur.

First of all, the tiny drops leaking from the threads can damage structures such as drywall, wood, or flooring material.

With time, these materials can become structurally weak. Water can also get into electrical fixtures behind walls such as wires and this is quite unsafe.

You should also not forget that leaks can also lead to the development of mold. The area where the leaks are dropping can become damp and create a suitable environment for mold growth.

Apart from the health concerns, leaks can also lead to expensive repairs later on. So, to be safe, you need to address galvanized pipes leaking at the thread ASAP.

Do You Need to Hire an Expert to Fix a Galvanized Pipe Leaking at the Threads?

Here at Build It Fine, we always advocate for a DIY approach when it comes to such problems. However, whether you should call an expert depends on a couple of factors.

First of all, are you good at plumbing? If the answer is no, then you need professional help.

Also, if you decide to use replace the damaged or corroded galvanized pipe, you may benefit more from the expertise of a professional plumber. That’s because such a task is hectic and it needs a couple of special tools.

However, you don’t need to hire a plumber to tighten loose threaded connections for you. Neither do you need to hire one to apply repair tape, thread sealant or install pipe clamps on your galvanized threaded connection.

These products are relatively easy to use, even if you lack basic plumbing skills.

Do PEX, Copper, and PVC Pipe Threads Leak As Easily As Galvanized Pipes?

Don’t get me wrong, but galvanized pipes are a bit old school. Yes, they’re strong, sturdy, and cost-effective, but their threads are highly susceptible to corrosion, damage, and wear which often leads to leaks.

Its counterparts, PEX, copper, and PVC are more resistant to leaks. And it would be a smart move to upgrade from galvanized to either of these three pipe materials if you want to prevent leaks in the future.

Take PEX pipes for instance, their connections are clamped together thus guaranteeing a strong and watertight seal.

Look at copper pipes, they are resistant to corrosion. Therefore, their threaded connections will never become loose due to rust.

As for PVC pipes, they are joined using solvents or mechanical fittings and will rarely experience leaks.

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