A slab leak doesn’t sound like something you hear of every day, and for some, this may be the first time they’re hearing of it. The concrete foundation beneath your home is referred to as the slab. Plumbing typically runs through this slab, and if there is an issue with the plumbing and water leaks beneath the slab, this is called a slab leak. A slab leak can cause a lot of damage to the foundation and the rest of your home. Want to know more about slab leak? Here are some FAQs homeowners pose about slab leaks and helpful answers.
What is a Slab Leak?
A cement slab is usually found where a basement or crawl space is absent in a home and functions as the home’s foundation. Usually, several pipes are fitted through this cement slab, and if there is a plumbing leak into the foundation, this is characterized as a slab leak. Water damage could prove significant and costly, whether the leak is caused by a crack in the pipes or a rupture.
What Are the Signs You Have a Slab Leak?
A slab leak can be quite obvious if the leak is large and is caused by a burst pipe or subtle from a small crack in the pipe. Still, some signs of a slab leak include:
- A jump in your water bill
- Noise like water is running when the faucets are off.
- Foundation cracks
- Foundation sinking evident from uneven floors
What is the Cause of the Slab Leak?
A few different factors could cause a slab leak in your home. These include:
- Corrosion of copper pipes due to mineral accumulation from water that passes through the pipes. The corrosion creates holes in the pipes for leaks to occur.
- Excess pressure on underground pipes can eventually result in them cracking. Clay soils typically expand when wet and contract when dry and these changes can cause the ground beneath the foundation to shift. This can add pressure on the slab and pipes. This shift could also be caused by an earthquake.
How Does One Detect a Slab Leak?
Suspected signs of a slab leak need to be confirmed by a professional. With a qualified plumber, you can get a proper assessment of your pipes and slab and a report ensuring if you indeed have a leak or leaks and the source. Remember that the professionals have the proper tools, like thermal imaging cameras, to find hot spots identifying hot water from a leak. They may also track leaks using acoustic listening devices to listen for a leak and pinpoint exactly where the issue is located.
Are Slab Leaks a Plumbing Emergency?
Yes. Slab leaks are a serious plumbing emergency. It can be dangerous if not addressed and can
lead to structural issues. They can also increase the risk of mold growth that can trigger health issues, from allergies to asthma.
Can I Prevent Slab Leaks?
Homeowners rarely have any control over slab leaks occurring. However, homeowners can ensure that their home’s plumbing remains in peak condition year in and year out. See that your plumbing systems are inspected and serviced annually to prevent leaks.
Let ASAP Drain Guys & Plumbing resolve your slab leak problem immediately. We can stop a bad plumbing problem from morphing into a disastrous one. We are A+ BBB rated and are here to serve you. Contact us today.
