Slab Leak Basics

All About Slab Leaks and How to Identify Them

Slab leaks occur when the water pipes beneath a home’s concrete foundation begin to leak. These leaks can be particularly problematic as they are not easily visible and can cause significant water damage over time. Homeowners should be aware of the signs of slab leaks so they can call for slab leak repair quickly. This article will discuss slab leaks, their warning signs, and how plumbers go about fixing them.  

Signs of Slab Leaks

Homeowners should be vigilant for the following signs of a slab leak to limit its damage and consequences:

• High Water Bills: If water costs increase without a corresponding increase in the household’s water usage, water could be escaping from the plumbing beneath the slab.
• Sound of Running Water: Hearing the sound of running water when no plumbing fixtures are being used points to a leak. 
• Mold Smell: Excess moisture from a slab leak can lead to mold growth, which emits a distinct musty odor. 
• Low Water Pressure: The escaping water can lead to a noticeable drop in water pressure from fixtures.
• Damp or Warm Spots on the Floor: Slab leaks can create warm areas or wet spots on the floor as water leaks under the flooring. 
• Floor or Foundation Damage: Slab leaks can lead to water damage, including cracks and damage to the home’s foundation and floors. 

How Slab Leaks Can Start

Slab leaks can be damaging to a house and costly in multiple ways since homeowners must pay for slab leak repair and to fix any water damage while paying more for water costs. So, it’s important to find and fix them as soon as possible. While it’s good to know the warning signs, it’s also helpful to know what can cause them. 

Fixing the issue before it causes a slab leak can save homeowners money. Over time, pipes can corrode as they age. This corrosion weakens the pipes, making them more susceptible to leaks. Pipe corrosion is particularly prevalent in older homes where the plumbing materials may have aged and deteriorated. So, it’s crucial to have the plumbing inspected and maintained routinely to catch corrosion before it leads to additional problems. Another cause of slab leaks is pipes that have been improperly installed, so it’s crucial to trust professionals to handle piping installation and plumbing work so it gets done correctly. 

Fixing Slab Leaks

Because slab leaks occur under a home's foundation and beneath flooring, repairing them can be challenging without the right tools and equipment. Plumbers can use tools to locate the leak noninvasively without any digging. After slab leak detection, they will know where the leak is located and can determine how best to repair it with the least amount of disturbance to the property.

In some instances, plumbers may need to remove a section of the slab to access the damaged pipe. In other cases, the pipes can be repaired with minimal digging or excavation using trenchless methods. Regardless of the slab leak repair method, the need for a professional plumber is paramount. Homeowners want to be sure the leak is fixed correctly to prevent any additional damage to the home. 

About Henco Plumbing Services

Henco Plumbing Services is a commercial and residential plumbing company serving the Ridgefield area. They offer flat-rate pricing, same-day service, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them for slab leak repair services in Ridgefield, WA. 

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