The need for a slab leak repair can sneak up on a homeowner. Since the leak is under the home, it can’t be seen and often goes unnoticed for a long period of time, causing extensive damage to the foundation of the home. Thankfully, bigger, more costly repairs can be avoided if you know the signs of a small slab leak.
What is a slab?
Many homes are built on a concrete foundation called a slab. When a house is built on a slab, much of the plumbing, including both water and sewer lines, can be located under the slab. A slab leak occurs when a hole or crack in a water line under the house’s concrete foundation develops and the water seeping from the damage absorbs into the slab, causing dampness and weakness in the foundation. Because it is sealed underneath the concrete, it is hard to notice a leaky pipe until the leak becomes worse, but there are some signs the homeowner can look out for that will increase the odds of early detection.
What are the signs of a slab leak?
- Bills: Expensive water bills are one of the first signs of pipe damage under the slab.
- Pressure: Changes in water pressure may be caused by a leak under the foundation. Even a small leak can cause big pressure dips.
- Sound: The sound of running water or hissing coming from beneath the slab is a sure sign of a leak.
- Musty air and dampness: The smell of mildew or mold could mean there is a leak causing persistent dampness and the growth of these unwelcome and potentially hazardous guests. Generally, damp air may mean water is leaking so fast that it keeps the floor and foundation wet constantly causing the air to hold dampness as well.
- Spotting or pooling water: Water spots on the concrete floor could be a result of a leak making its way up through the foundation.
- Cracking areas: Cracks in the concrete, in the flooring over the concrete, or in the baseboards and drywall may be caused by floor level changes resulting from a weak foundation.
- Swelling floors: Swollen or displaced wood floors over the concrete can be caused by water damage.
- Floor temperature: Hot or cold spots on the floor may indicate a leak underneath.
- Water meter changes: The water meter should not change when water in the house is not in use.
- Running water pump: The water pump or well pump should not be running when water is not in use.
If any of the signs are present, a slab leak repair should be scheduled immediately. If a leak is ignored, it could lead to irreparable damage, wasted water, or expensive foundation replacement costs. It is much easier and more cost-efficient to have a repair done as soon as a leak is detected.
We can help to make the repair right away
To save money in the future on damages caused by a leak, call to schedule a slab leak repair today.