Understand the Essentials of a Slab Leak
A slab leak is one of a house's most troublesome and difficult-to-repair plumbing problems. Still, with a reputable professional who looks out for the homeowner, it can be a more manageable experience. Today’s technology makes fixing a leak beneath the home’s foundation easier. This article will discuss some frequently asked questions about slab leaks, their detection, and the methods of slab leak repair.
Slab Leaks: What Are They?
Slab leaks are breakages in one or more pipes found beneath the “slab.” The slab is the concrete foundation or support layer of the house. Most houses without basements are built with a slab foundation. This means getting to the pipes can be difficult because the plumbing professional is either going through the slab or under it, neither of which is without collateral damage.
But what causes a slab leak in the first place? There are many causes, but a few of the primary culprits are listed below.
- Abrasion or Corrosion of Pipes: If pipes are installed incorrectly or come in contact with corrosive chemicals, this may cause a pipe weakness and lead to a leak. A pipe that has a scrape can also burst at that narrow point.
- Shifting Foundation: As the home ages, it moves a little on the ground. This occurrence is often called settling or foundation shift, which can stress pipes and cause leaks.
- Hard Water: Water full of dissolved minerals, or hard water, can cause mineral buildup on pipes, leading to the corrosion and abrasion listed above.
- Water Pressure: If there is an unexpected increase in a home’s water pressure, this can lead to a broken pipe. This can happen anywhere within a home’s plumbing system but is more difficult to reach if it happens under the slab.
What Problems Indicate a Slab Leak?
A slab leak is not only difficult to reach but also difficult to detect. Some telltale signs can help homeowners know they may need to call in professionals for leak detection. Homeowners should look into leak detection services once they see any of the following signs:
- The water bill suddenly skyrockets without any increase in usage.
- Water damage is occurring without a clear source of water.
- Mold is present in the walls.
- Puddles of water are appearing outside without rain or other obvious source.
A high water bill with no visible leak is usually a clear indicator that something is up, even if there are no other signs.
Professional Slab Leak Detection and Repair
Plumbing technicians can use several leak detection methods, including sewer video cameras that can be fed directly into a drain or other pipe. Likewise, ultrasound equipment can be used as a radar to pinpoint the location of a leak. Repair has traditionally been done by either breaking the slab as precisely as possible to reach the leak or digging underneath the slab. New techniques for repiping may be successful and less invasive, depending on the leak's extent.
About B&L Plumbing and Heating
B&L Plumbing and Heating proudly serves the Colorado Springs, CO, community and the surrounding areas for all their household comfort needs. They are veteran-owned and provide tailored solutions for each household. Call the experts today for foundation leak detection and slab repair service in Colorado Springs, CO, for no after-hours fees.
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