The stability of a home is nothing without a sturdy foundation. But sometimes, the foundation can become compromised. Underneath a home’s concrete slab is a network of piping responsible for transporting water to the home and removing used water. Plumbing issues with this network of piping can end up leading to a slab leak, which can cause major problems for the home.
Slab leaks are a tricky issue that a lot of homeowners hopefully never have to worry about. But considering the extent of damage that can result from this type of plumbing leak, homeowners need to know about the ins and outs. Airco Service is here to help you identify slab leaks and to properly respond if your home has one.
What Is a Slab Leak?
Firstly, a home’s slab is the concrete foundation some styles of homes are built upon. Commonly, water and sewer lines run below this slab of concrete.
Slab leaks are a type of plumbing leak that is caused by damaged or deteriorated lines that release water or sewage under the building.
What Causes Slab Leaks?
Numerous avenues can cause slab leaks. Here are some common reasons a home might experience a slab leak:
- Incorrectly installed pipes
- Shifting soil
- Chemical reactions/friction between elements in the plumbing system
- Poor construction
- Weakened water lines
How Common Are Slab Leaks?
Slab leaks can be common under certain circumstances. Older homes with copper or galvanized pipes are more likely to corrode and cause a leak. The chances of a slab leak also increase when other pressures like an earthquake, underground stream, or soil erosion affect the concrete slab foundation. Other situations that increase the chances of a slab leak include:
- Living near water that is overly acidic or alkalinity
- Debris or sewage in the water that can cause abrasion
- Hot water pipes that expand and create friction with the concrete
Identifying a Slab Leak: Key Indicators
Slab leaks are usually difficult to pinpoint until the resulting problems become overwhelming. Here are the key indicators that your home has a slab leak:
Unexpectedly High Water Bill
Are your water bills rising with no explanation? Even the smallest leak can waste thousands of gallons of water, causing your monthly bill to skyrocket.
Warm or Wet Spots on the Floor
A common sign of a slab leak is the presence of warm or wet spots on your home’s floor. This is a result of hot water pipes that are damaged underneath your home’s foundation. In cases such as this, you might even feel heat directly above where the leak is located.
Reduced Water Pressure
A reduction in water pressure is another common indicator of a slab leak. With a water leak as substantial as a slab leak, water loss can be felt by reduced water pressure throughout your home.
Presence of Mold or Mildew
Whether it’s because of hot water pipes or leakage, the increased humidity from a slab leak can pave the way for mold and mildew growth. Mold and mildew growth can be seen as white, black, or green spots on surfaces. They are also known for leaving musty odors.
Cracks in the Foundation
Slab leak signs can also be seen in the form of cracks within the foundation. Damages can cause the concrete slab to shift and create instability.
Discoloration or Damage to Flooring
Notice discoloration or damage to your home’s flooring? Slab leaks can lead to discoloration and damage to materials such as carpet and hardwood. In severe cases, replacement of these materials can be necessary. On top of that, a large slab leak can result in these problems throughout the home, leading to an overwhelming amount of floor damage.
Unpleasant Odors
Unpleasant odors that can be described as “musty” are often the result of mold growth. Hidden moisture and mold growth could very well mean a slab leak.
Pooling Water
Slab leaks can lead to a substantial amount of pooling water around the concrete slab. With large amounts of pooling water, issues are only going to get worse if it isn’t dealt with promptly.
How to Fix a Slab Leak
Now that we’ve covered common slab leak signs, how do you fix a slab leak? Here are the steps to follow:
- Pinpoint the Leak’s Location
The first aspect of slab leak detection is detecting the leak’s location. Our team of professionals at Airco Service will use specialized equipment and techniques to accurately find the leak so the process can move forward.
- Prepare for Hazardous Conditions
Certain items within the home like valuables, furniture, and electronics should be removed from the room where work needs to be conducted. With the help of an assistant and protective gear, remove these items so the area is prepared for ensuing conditions.
- Use the Right Equipment
Your professional plumber from Airco Service will use the right equipment such as a jackhammer to reach the area beneath the foundation. Personal use of this equipment can lead to bodily harm, so it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Once excavation is complete, repairs can be started.
- Consider Your Slab Leak Repair Options
There are several ways to move forward when it comes to repairs. Homeowners may choose spot repairs, which is best for a single leak with easy access. Spot repairs involve repairing one section of a pipe. Another option would be re-piping or re-routing. This repair method ditches the property’s old plumbing and new pipes are re-routed around the edge of the slab and through the attic.
Pipelining is also another available repair option. Pipelining involves covering the interior surface of the pipes with a thin non-toxic epoxy coating to deal with holes or leaks.
What Can You Do To Prevent Slab Leaks?
To best prevent a slab leak from becoming a reality at your home, put these tips into practice:
Avoid Using Too Much Water Pressure
Start by avoiding the use of too much water pressure. This can cause pipes to weaken and rupture. Your home’s water pressure levels can be adjusted with the help of local plumbers.
Take Action Against Hard Water
If your home doesn’t already have one, install a water softener. Water softeners help against hard water and help prevent pipe damage.
Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners
While chemical drain cleaners can remove common clogs in your home, they are also harsh chemicals that can damage your pipes. Avoid using these products as much as possible.
The Importance of Immediate Action
The best way to avoid the serious consequences of a slab leak is immediate action. Spotting issues early on can help you avoid structural damage, water damage, increased water bills, and more. The longer a slab leak goes unchecked, the more damage is it going to create.
Give Us a Call Today For Help With Slab Leak Detection
Don’t let a slab leak go unnoticed, contact Airco Service today for slab leak detection before it’s too late. Airco Service offers slab leak detection services in locations across Oklahoma and Arkansas. Airco Service is also your leading provider of water treatment services throughout our offered locations. Reach out to Airco Service today with the help of our convenient online contact form.