Slab Leaks: Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Slab Leaks?

Plumbing leaks in any form are never fun. But as bad as a dripping faucet or leaky toilet can be, slab leaks are one of the worst types of leaks homeowners can face. But what is a slab leak? A slab leak is a leak in any of the pipes running under a home’s concrete foundation, also known as a slab. 

Shifting soil, erosion, corrosion, friction, and plain old age can all cause these pipes to develop leaks. Whether they’re small pinhole leaks or major ruptures, slab leaks can cause all kinds of problems – so it’s imperative that homeowners catch and address them as early as possible. This article will help them do just that by answering some of the most commonly asked slab leak questions!

What Are Some Signs of a Slab Leak?

Since slab leaks are hidden under the home’s foundation, they’re not always obvious. In fact, it’s not uncommon for slab leaks to go unnoticed for a long time. But there are a few ways to tell if there’s a slab leak under the home. These signs include:

• Warm spots on the floor (indicates a leaky hot water line)
• Damp spots or mold in carpeted areas (water could be seeping through a crack in the foundation or even keeping the concrete perpetually wet)
• A running water sound when no water is being used
• Low water pressure
• An unusually high water bill but no visible leaks

Are Slab Leaks Dangerous?

Slab leaks can be dangerous and damaging in multiple ways. Even a relatively slow leak can waste enormous amounts of water over time, resulting in very high water bills. If the leak goes undetected for several months, homeowners can end up paying a hefty price for water costs and repairing water damage.

Slab leaks can cause significant damage to the home through water damage, mold growth (which poses a health risk), and shifting or cracking foundations. Foundation problems can cause walls to crack, floors to become unlevel, and windows to break. In some extreme cases, parts of the foundation can even sink or collapse as the slab leak slowly washes away the soil upon which it rests.

How Do Professionals Fix Slab Leaks?

Considering the costly damage slab leaks can cause, homeowners should call a professional as soon as they notice any slab leak signs listed above. It may not be clear where exactly the leak is located, so the first thing professionals will do is pinpoint the source of the leak – or leaks. Slab leak detection typically involves using special equipment, such as sonar listening devices, thermal imaging equipment, or moisture detection devices.

Once they have found the leak, the technicians will work with homeowners to determine the best solution. There are generally a few options for this. One method is pipe re-routing, which involves installing a new line to bypass the leaking one, usually around the foundation or through a wall or attic. Another method is trenchless repair, which involves either sealing the inside of the pipe with epoxy pipe lining or feeding a new line through the existing one, called pipe bursting.

Somewhat more invasive methods include tunneling under the slab to repair or replace the leaky pipe or simply breaking through the slab itself. These tend to be the most invasive of the methods but may be the best course of action, depending on the severity of the leak. Fortunately, a reputable slab leak repair company can help walk homeowners through the pros and cons of each method and find the one that works best for them!

About Great Day Plumbing & Air

Great Day Plumbing & Air is a local plumbing and HVAC company serving Wilmington and the surrounding areas. They offer upfront pricing, same-day services, and an on-time guarantee. Call them today for slab leak detection and repair in Wilmington, NC.

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