Blog originally published on January 2, 2018. Updated on September 2, 2022.
For many homes, slab leaks are a common nightmare. The pesky hidden water leaks occur underneath the slabs of concrete beneath a home, deep in the plumbing lines. This also makes them very hard to detect. However, it’s important to keep an eye out for any damages that have happened and address slab leaks swiftly to prevent further issues.
Have you noticed damp spots on your floor and carpets? Are you experiencing lower water pressure than usual? These might be signs that you have a plumbing leak or a slab leak, which can be a big deal and a costly affair if left unresolved.
Fortunately, Orlando Leak Detection are your experts for slab leak repair and slab leak detection. Here are four signs that you may have encountered a slab leak.
What Causes Concrete Slab Leaks?
Homes are built on concrete slabs known as the "foundation." A slab leak occurs in the ground beneath your home for a number of reasons. Below are some of the causes and warning signs to watch out for.
Improper Construction
Newer homes use PVC or chlorinated polyvinyl chloride pipe, but older homes might not. Copper pipes are more likely to suffer from corrosion since they are softer and more vulnerable to elements.
The use of poor-quality copper and cast iron pipes that are improperly installed is the leading cause of slab leaks. If the pipes were bent or dented when they were installed, these areas could start corroding, causing plumbing leaks and even burst pipes in some cases.
Excessively High Water Pressure in Hot Water Pipes
High water pressure — whether it is caused by poor construction or natural disasters such as an earthquake — can degrade the water and sewer pipes where there is a curve or at the joints. This can in turn cause massive leaks that can compromise the foundation of your home.
If you notice your water bill is higher than usual, get leak detection experts to inspect your plumbing system and irrigation system.
Ground Shifting
As years go by, the weight of your house starts to take a toll on the concrete slab and the earth on which your home is built. This will eventually lead to soil erosion as the ground shifts and settles around the concrete foundation. If the shift is significant, it will put excessive pressure on the underground pipes and water lines, causing them to crack and start leaking. Ground shifting can also be caused by natural disasters such as earthquakes.
Poor Water Quality
If your water quality is poor, it could be damaging the pipes. It is important that you keep an eye on the pH of the water. If the water is excessively acidic or alkaline it can corrode the pipes, which could lead to irreversible damage.
A slab leak can corrode pipes and become dangerous if not treated properly. Make sure to keep an eye out for signs of a slab leak before it becomes a larger problem.
Call Orlando Leak Detection for Concrete Slab Foundation Repair & Leak Detection
Catch future slab leaks before they grow into major problems that threaten the structural integrity of your home!
There are many causes of slab leaks, but Orlando Leak Detection is the best solution.
For slab leak detection, contact the team at Orlando Leak Detection today.
