The green color on copper is called “patina”. The “patina” itself is not the problem, but on copper water pipe it indicates that somewhere at sometime, your plumbing system has had a leak in that area.
Areas of Green on Water Pipes Are Evidence of 2 Facts:
Your plumbing system uses copper water pipe, and
You likely have a leak(s).
Now patina coloration is easily observed on roofs that are covered with copper as well. Other items made from copper such as a weathervane or a brass bell (copper (CU) is the major element in the material we know as brass) hung outside might also patina and turn a green color that many times looks very splotchy and inconsistent based on exposure to outside weather elements.
Why Is “Patina” on Water Pipe a Problem?
In the above examples above the copper surfaces or pieces are on the exterior. Water pipe for your plumbing system is inside your walls or under faucets, or inside cabinets and it’s not exposed to these same outside elements such as rain and electricity in the air from lightning and thunderstorms.
So the question of why you might have patina spots on your copper water pipe becomes a little confusing, right?
Watch for our next article will more fully explain the Patina – Electrolysis – Water Leak relationships and where you are likely to see signs or indicators of upcoming problems.
Make Leak Geeks Your Plumber
Call Leak Geeks Plumbing professionals if you need help with any of your plumbing issues. You can always be assured that only a Licensed Plumber will be there for any work done in your home. We work diligently to make certain that you are treated with respect and have all your questions answered before we go to work in your home.
