A slab refers to the concrete foundation that many homes are built upon. Water lines usually run beneath this foundation, and can occasionally crack or drip. The result of this is a very slippery situation: a slab leak.
Slab leaks can be detrimental to your home and are a serious issue. Our professional technicians at Champion AC & Plumbing are here to help you identify the causes and signs of a slab leak!
Reasons For a Slab Leak
Slab leaks can impose significant damage to your home’s flooring and foundation. This issue can go undetected for years before it becomes noticeable. A few common causes of slab leaks are:
Pressure on Pipes
Underground pipes can experience forceful pressure, usually caused by earthquakes, soil shifts and groundwater. These circumstances can create large leaks beneath the surface of your home. Pressure-induced slab leaks are often large and can cause flooding if not checked.
Soil Shift
The soil underneath your home can shift, causing your house to move. This shift can harm the foundation of your home while increasing underground pressure. Dirt can also expand if exposed to groundwater and can damage your pipes.
Improper Construction
Low-quality materials and poor pipe installation are common causes of household slab leaks. During construction, pipes can be nicked, bent, or dented. Over time, flowing water can cause pipes to break, leading to excessive water damage.
Certain plumbing materials are more susceptible to leaks than others. For instance, copper pipes are naturally softer and prone to erosion. Plastic pipe materials can also wear down over time due to natural vibrations in the ground.
Poor Water Quality
The pH levels of your water can have a negative impact on your underground plumbing. Acidic water, also known as “hard” water, can cause your pipes to corrode and deteriorate.
Hard water can cause your pipes to wear away. You can identify acidic water if you see green stains in your bathtub and sinks. Water with low pH levels will also smell similar to chlorine.
Abrasions
Friction can wear down the plumbing underneath your home. When functioning, pipes can rub against one another. They also can grow dull from touching gravel, concrete, and other rough materials. Consistent friction can cause leaks and additional damage to your plumbing system.
Older Homes
Unfortunately, time can take a toll on your household plumbing. It’s not uncommon for older homes to have pipes made of poor materials. Corrosion naturally occurs over time, especially on pipes made of copper or galvanized steel.
Signs You Have a Slab Leak
Unfortunately, identifying a slab leak is very difficult for a homeowner. The issue can often be mistaken for something else without the help of a professional technician. However, a few signs to watch out for are:
- Warm and damp spots on your carpet or floor
- Low water pressure
- Consistently wet ground near the foundation of your home
- Sound of running water under the sink
- Mold growth
- Unusually high water bills
These signs are not always from a slab leak, but you should have a professional inspect the issue as a safety net.
Contact Us For Austin Slab Leak Detection!
Ultimately, slab leaks can cause irreversible damage to your home. At Champion AC & Plumbing, our trained professionals are here to help keep your plumbing system in excellent condition! If you suspect you may be dealing with a slab leak, contact us to fix the issue!
