Slab foundations are one of the most commonly used types in the United States. As a popular foundation in states like Texas, slabs can be used for years without worries. But like all foundations, slabs can have their fair share of problems, the most dreaded being a leak.

A slab leak is an industry term coined by plumbers to describe a leaking copper line that runs under a slabs foundation. Similarly, the same type of leak that happens when occurring above ground is pinhole leaks, as they describe the size. While a slab leak isn’t a huge amount of water coming from the pipe, it is enough to ruin the foundation altogether. Holes happen due to corroded pipes, and the home settling on the foundation.

Identifying A Slab Leak

Knowing the signs of a slab leak early on can prevent a great deal of damage to your home. Take a look at some of the most common signs to look for to identify a leak under your slab before pipe freezing or any repair takes place.

• Rise in the water bill, with no changes to how you use it
• Damp flooring
• The smell of mold or mildew
• Water pressure decreases
• Sound of water running, with no water on
• Areas of the floor are wet

One of the easiest ways to pinpoint a leak is to look at the foundation itself. Are there cracks in the concrete? While these can signify a problem with the foundation itself, like settling, when combined with the other warning signs, it is more than likely a leak.

What Can You Do When You Think You Have a Leak?

There is no way to fix a slab leak on your own. A professional plumber will need to correct the problem and make the repair. Your plumber will likely run a leak detection test to determine the area of the leak. Isolating the leak to make repairs will be a priority. Your plumber will want to do a visual inspection of the area before getting started on repairs. This can help them figure out how bad the corroded pipes where.

Next, a pressure test can be performed to determine the severity and course of action to fix the leak. Using the leak detection equipment, your contractor will be able to find the leak without having to do damage to your home’s foundation, such as using a jackhammer.

What To Expect From The Repairs?

There are two methods for repairing a slab leak. A plumbing contractor can spot repair the pipe, or repipe under the home. Which method used is dependant on the location of the hole, if there are multiple leaks, and what the condition the rest of the pipes are in. If the pipes are older, and there have been several problems happening already, repiping might be the better choice for repair.

A newer method for repair called sleeving or lining the pipe can also be a valid option for copper lines with pinholes. With this method, your plumber will use a non-toxic lining product to give the tube a new inner lining to seal the holes. Once the lining has ‘cured,’ it becomes the new pipe inside the old.

For more information on slab leaks, repairs, or to request service in the Arlington, TX area visit All Masters Plumbing.

Published: 2019-12-29 18:12:00