DIY Repairs for Leaky Copper and PVC Pipes
Isolated holes in copper and pvc pipe can be permanently patched using the methods on this page. Multiple leaks in copper pipes are usually an indication of corrosion destroying the copper. In these cases the old pipe should be replaced.
Pin holes and other small holes in copper and pvc pipe can be sealed using a small piece of rubber and a hose clamp.
For the patch to last the hole shouldn't be much larger than a quarter of the size of the clamp band. A bicycle inner tube will be thick enough for small pin holes but for a larger holes fold the rubber or use a thicker piece to be sure the patch won't leak.
Larger holes in copper and pvc pipe can be repaired using a specially made patch available in hardware and home stores. These patches are about 3 inches long so even the largest holes in plumbing pipes can be successfully patched.