Slab Leaks - What Are the Causes of Slab Leaks?

A slab leak is a term used by plumbers indicating that you have a pipe leak that is under or in the foundation of your home. These leaks can be the size of a small pinhole, or much larger.

Finding exactly where the leak is while causing the least amount of damage can be accomplished by a professional plumber who is equipped with, and experienced in using state-of-the-art tools and equipment.

What Causes Slab Leaks?

There are several conditions which can cause a slab leak. Underground pipes can corrode from chemicals found in the soil, bad water quality, and metallic or copper piping tend to spring leaks from being energized by electrical lines that also run beneath the slab.

Improper installation or pressure and abrasion can also cause these types of leaks when the pipes rub against, or are being crushed by vibrations and expansion in the foundation.

How Do I Know If I Have A Slab Leak?

Should you discover a wet spot in your flooring, find that your hardwood flooring is buckling or find the presence of mildew under your carpet or along baseboards, these are some of the most noticeable signs of a possible slab leak. Check your water bills to see if there has been a noticeable increase in the amount of your bill due to unexplained high water usage.

If you think you may have a leak under your foundation, you can turn off all the water to your home at the main meter, and if you continue to hear running water or see that the meter is still spinning, this too is a symptom of a slab leak. Slab leaks will sometimes also cause cracking in your flooring or walls.

How Long Does A Repair Take?

Detecting and repairing the actual leak under the foundation could take about two days when performed by a skilled plumber. However, you will still face flooring and possibly wall repairs due to water damage.

A professional plumber should be able to and be expected to handle this messy job, yet leave the repaired area clean and ready for the flooring professionals to quickly come in and re-install the damaged flooring.

Are you seeing signs of a slab leak in your Sherman Oaks home? No time to waste here, Call Plumbing Brothers & Rooter at (855) 375-5700 to see what is causing that slab leak.