If you’re a homeowner, one thing you never want to hear is “you have a slab leak.” Forget about preparing for extreme weather–those three little words can send a chill down your spine. But what exactly causes this awful problem and why is it so hard to identify?
In this post, we’ll be discussing all the possibilities of what could lead to those dreaded three words and how best to avoid them in the future.
Armed with knowledge, no slab leak will ever catch you off guard again!
What is A Slab Leak?
A slab leak is a water leak that occurs beneath the concrete foundation of your home. This type of leak occurs when water escapes through cracks in the pipes beneath your foundation. These cracks can occur due to corrosion or shifting soil around your foundation. When it happens, it can cause serious damage to the structure of your home as well as increase your water bill significantly.
Symptoms of A Slab Leak
Several signs can indicate you have a slab leak on your hands. These include the following.
- Higher than Normal Water Bills – One of the tell-tale signs of a slab leak is an increase in your water bill without any explanation as to why it is higher than usual. This could be because your leaking pipes are wasting water.
- Unexplained Wet Spots – Another sign of a slab leak is unexplained wet spots or dampness appearing on your flooring or walls, including around drains and toilets where leaks can sometimes occur. If these spots seem to appear often, then it could mean that there is a bigger plumbing issue at hand.
- Cracks in Your Foundation – As water builds up underneath your foundation, it can create pressure that causes cracks in your walls and floors. These cracks may look like they’re just hairline fractures, but they can get much worse over time if left untreated. If you see any cracks appearing in your home, then this should be taken as an indication that something might be wrong with your plumbing system beneath the surface.
- Mold & Mildew Growth – Mold and mildew can grow due to high levels of moisture in the air and on surfaces caused by a slab leak below your home’s foundation.
- Unusual Sounds from Pipes – If you start hearing unusual noises coming from pipes under your home, such as bubbling or gurgling sounds, then this could signal that there is a problem with the plumbing system beneath the surface.
How to Avoid Having A Slab Leak
The best way to avoid having a slab leak is by investing in regular maintenance and inspections. Make sure that all exposed pipes are insulated correctly and check them regularly for any signs of corrosion or leaking.
You should also inspect any visible plumbing fixtures, such as toilets or faucets, for any leaks or drips. Additionally, be sure to keep an eye out for damp spots on walls or floors which could indicate moisture seeping from underneath the slab foundation.
If you notice anything suspicious, call in an experienced plumber right away for an inspection before the problem gets worse!
At Miller Plumbing & Heating, we specialize in slab leak detection and repair. Our experienced technicians can help identify any issues and provide the necessary repairs to ensure your system is working properly.
Don’t let a slab leak take you by surprise. Contact us today to get started!
