Slab leaks are, unfortunately, quite common and can be very difficult to detect and fix. A slab leak occurs when a pipe underneath a home’s foundation leaks, allowing water to seep into the ground. Slab leaks can occur in fresh water and sewer lines, and they are typically caused by corrosion or damage to the pipes. Slab leaks can cause extensive damage to a home if not repaired promptly. This can waste a lot of water damage and erode the soil around it. Over time, this can cause the foundation to buckle and shift, cracking the floors and walls of the house. In severe cases, it can even cause parts of the house to collapse.
If you think you may have a slab leak, it’s important to contact a professional as soon as possible to assess the situation. Slab leaks may seem small, but they can quickly become a major issue if left unchecked. The frequency of slab leaks increases as homes get older and pipes begin to corrode (slab leaks are most common in homes over 20 years old.) They can also vary depending on the region you live in. Slab leaks are more common in areas with high water tables or where the soil is exceptionally expansive and areas prone to earthquakes because of the shifting grounds that can damage pipes.
The Warning Signs of Slab Leaks
As mentioned, slab leaks are challenging to detect because they hide underneath your home. However, there are some warning signs that can help you identify them before the problem becomes too big. If you notice any of the following, it’s time to call a professional for help:
- Unexplained increase in your water bill: If you’re suddenly paying a lot more for water than you used to, it could be because you have a leak. Slab leaks can waste a lot of water, so it’s worth investigating if you see your bill going up for no apparent reason.
- Water on the floor: If you have water pooling on your floor, you likely have a leak somewhere. Slab leaks can cause flooding, so it’s crucial to take action immediately if you see water where there shouldn’t be any.
- Cracks in your walls or floors: Slab leaks can put pressure on your foundation, leading to cracks in your walls or floors. If you notice any damages, especially ones that are growing, it’s a good idea to have them checked out.
- Unexplained mold or mildew: If you start to see mold or mildew where there wasn’t any, it could be because of slab leaks. Leaks can create damp conditions that are perfect for mold and mildew to grow, so if you notice anything suspicious, don’t ignore it.
If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s important to call in our skilled experts. Slab leaks can cause severe damage to your home if it’s not fixed, so don’t delay getting the help you need.
What are The Common Causes of Slab Leaks?
There are a few different reasons that slab leaks can occur. One common reason is due to poor water pressure, which can lead to the pipes becoming damaged over time and eventually developing leaks. Another common cause of slab leaks is when the pipes become corroded. This can happen when the water has a high mineral content, which can cause the pipes to degrade over time. Slab leaks can also occur when the ground around the foundation of your home moves or settles, which can stress the pipes and cause them to break or leak. However, expansive soil shift is still the primary cause of leaks in under-the-slab plumbing. According to the American Society of Civil Engineering, the annual cost of damage caused by expansive soil shifts is around $2.3 billion in the United States.
Slab leaks can also result from poor pipe installation. If the pipe wasn’t installed correctly, they may be unable to handle the water pressure or become damaged over time. Slab leaks can also occur if the pipes are made of inferior materials that cannot withstand the water pressure or the corrosive nature of the water. Slab leaks can be severe, so it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as possible; otherwise, they can cause extensive damage to your home and may even lead to foundation problems. Finally, faulty plumbing system installation in your home can put immense stress on the pipes and lead to slab leaks.
Slab Leakage Repair
Concrete slab leaks can cause major damage to your home and are often very expensive to repair. These leaks can go undetected for years, causing serious damage to your home’s structure. In addition, slab leaks can also lead to mold growth and health problems for you and your family. If you think you may have slab leakage, it’s important to contact our reputable and trustworthy professionals for repairs as soon as possible.
Our professional contractors repair slab leaks in a few different ways; the method they choose to use depends on the leak’s location and the damage’s severity. One option for repairing slab leaks is called “ pipe bursting.” This method applies when the leak is located in a pipe buried deep within the concrete foundation. To repair the leak, we start by drilling a small hole through the slab, and a new pipe is pulled through the old one. The old pipe is then burst open and removed.
Another option for repairing slab leaks is called “pipe relining.” This method can be used for leaks found in shallower pipes. A flexible liner is inserted into the pipe and inflated, causing the liner to harden and creating a new inner surface for the pipe. This method can also be used to repair damaged, but not leaking pipes.
Pipe rerouting is another option that can be used to repair slab leakage. This method is typically used when the leak is located in a pipe close to the slab’s surface. A new pipe is run around the old one and connected to the existing plumbing. The old pipe is then capped off. In addition, Pipe tunneling beneath the slab is a fourth option for repairing a slab leakage. This method is used when the leak is located in a deep pipe within the slab. A small tunnel is dug beneath the slab, and a new pipe is run through it. The old pipe is then cut off and capped.
While there are a few different ways to repair slab leakage, the best option will depend on the leak’s location and the damage’s severity. We can help you with cold and hot water leaks, so if you are experiencing slab leakage, contact our team of experienced professionals to assess the damage and determine the best course of action for your particular situation.