Every year, San Antonio homeowners invest in the appearance and design of their homes. But the most important part of your home is the foundation! It holds everything up straight and without taking proper care of your foundation, your house can start to spiral quickly.
Mr. Plumber has all the tools you need to make sure that leaks are taken care of. Slab leaks can stem from various causes, including poor construction, shifting soil and corroded pipes. Detecting a slab leak can be challenging, but there are a few common signs to watch out for.
What Is a Slab Leak?
A slab leak is a hidden water leak that happens in the plumbing pipes or sewer lines beneath a building’s concrete foundation.
These leaks are sneaky and dangerous because they stay hidden and let water seep into the foundation slowly. This can result in severe structural damage, making it a pressing issue to address promptly. Additionally, if slab leaks are not attended to, they can cause mold and higher water bills. It is important to detect and fix these leaks before they get worse.
Signs A Slab Leak May Be Present
Slab leaks can be hard to detect, but there are certain signs homeowners should be on the lookout for. Below are some of the signs that you have a leak under your slab.
High Water Bill
Pay attention to your water bill. If you have not changed your water use but your home’s water consumption rate has suddenly risen, it is time to investigate. One way to test for a leak is by turning off all your appliances and plumbing fixtures and watching your water meter. If, after several minutes, it still shows water is being used, you may have a leak.
Random Pools of Water
If you notice water pooling in a specific area(s) of your home but can’t pinpoint the source, this is another indication you may have a leak. When a slab leaks, water will collect under the slab until it finds an outlet, and may present itself at your house in the following ways:
Inside
- Spontaneous puddling or moisture on the floor
- Area(s) of carpet that appears darker or damp compared to the rest
- Warped or buckling hardwood floorboards
- Mold, mildew or musty smells
Outside
Walk the perimeter of your home. If you are not overwatering and have no irrigation issues but find standing water, mud or moss, a slab leak is likely the culprit.
Additionally, if there seems to be water streaming or trailing from your foundation without a nearby hose you may have a leak.
Sounds of Dripping or Running Water
Can you hear the sound of running or dripping water, even when the faucets and fixtures are off? If none of your appliances or indoor fixtures are leaking, you likely have a plumbing issue, and it may be within the slab.
Floor “Hot Spots”
A key indicator of a slab leak is a distinct warm or humid spot on the floor of a room in your home. If a hot water line is leaking in your slab, heat from that accumulated water can transfer to the floor or area surrounding it.
Cracks on Ceilings and Walls
It is common for hairline cracks to form in the ceilings or walls of your home over time as they age and settle with each season. If new, significant cracks start developing abruptly, this could indicate a plumbing problem.
Reduced Water Pressure
If there is an active leak in your slab, some water flowing through the pipes will escape where it shouldn’t and less will reach where it needs to go. As a result, you may notice the water pressure in your home decrease. So if you notice sudden, reduced water pressure in your faucets or showers when other fixtures aren’t also in use, you may have a slab leak.
Detecting and repairing slab leaks is essential to prevent further damage, as they can cause serious structural damage if left untreated. Our team is ready to inspect your home for leaks without harming your foundation.
Slab Leak Dangers
Slab leaks can pose several dangers and risks, which is why it’s essential to address them promptly to prevent potential problems. Below are some of the dangers associated with slab leaks.
Structural Damage
One of the most significant dangers of a slab leak is the potential for structural damage to your building’s foundation. Over time, the leaking water can erode the soil underneath the foundation, causing it to shift, settle or crack. This can lead to a range of issues, including uneven floors, wall cracks and foundation failure.
Standing Water In Your Yard
Excess water from a slab leak can drown plants, damage grass and harm landscaping elements. Prolonged exposure to waterlogged conditions can lead to root rot, affecting the health and viability of your yard’s vegetation.
High Water Bills
Slab leaks can waste a significant amount of water, leading to increased water bills. If left unaddressed, the financial impact can be substantial — and nobody likes to waste money! Reach out to a technician on our team to make sure that money isn’t slowly dripping out of your wallet.
Call Mr. Plumber Today For Expert Slab Leak Repair!
We at Mr. Plumber know that slab leaks in your home or business are urgent and dangerous. You want to protect your property and we want to help! We find hidden leaks and offer non-invasive repairs to restore your plumbing system.
Our service is top-quality and professional. Get in touch with Mr. Plumber now to schedule your slab leak services. We’re ready to help you!
