Slab leaks are a common issue that affects homes. They can cause property damage, increase utility bills, and reduce water pressure. These leaks happen when water from pipes under your home’s foundation starts to leak, damaging the foundation and flooring.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the causes of slab leaks and how to detect them.
The Common Causes of Slab Leaks
Pipe Corrosion
Slab leaks are often caused by pipe corrosion. As pipes age, they corrode from the inside out, becoming thin and weak, eventually leading to failure. Corroded pipes can result in water leaking beneath your home’s foundation, causing damage.
Shifting Soil
The beneath your home’s foundation is not static. It can shift, especially due to seasonal temperature and moisture changes. This shifting may cause uneven settling of your foundation, putting stress on the plumbing system. Bent or cracked pipes under pressure can lead to water damage, posing a risk to your foundation.
Poor Plumbing Installation
Slab leaks can result from poor plumbing installation. Improperly installed pipes may rub against or puncture others, leading to leaks. Many homes have outdated or low-quality plumbing systems installed hastily or to save money, which can cause future issues. Hire an experienced plumber for proper installation.
High Water Pressure
High water pressure adds stress to plumbing, causing leaks and damaged pipes. Excessive pressure leads to pipe flexing, resulting in cracks and other damage. Maintain steady flow with pressure regulators for optimal plumbing performance.
Tree Roots
Tree roots can infiltrate your home’s plumbing system, causing slab leaks. As trees age, their roots seek water and nutrients, sometimes invading pipes and causing leaks around your home. Monitor your surrounding trees and remove them as needed to prevent this.
How often Do Slab Leaks Occur?
Slab leaks are more common in certain parts of the country. Regions with high clay content in the soil can lead to ground expansion and pipe pressure, causing leaks. Seismic areas also face increased slab leak risks. Aging homes also increase the chances of slab leaks.
What to Do if You Suspect a Slab Leak
If you suspect a slab leak, it’s crucial to act quickly. Ignoring it can result in significant structural and water damage. Call a professional plumber to investigate and repair the issue. This usually involves cutting through the foundation to replace the damaged pipes, but modern techniques like pipe rerouting or epoxy lining can also fix it without causing extensive damage.
Shield Your Home: Combat Slab Leaks with Proactive Plumbing Maintenance
The causes of slab leaks are numerous and can lead to many debilitating outcomes that can cause damage to your foundation, finances and your peace of mind. Regular check-ups from an experienced plumber and proactive maintenance on your plumbing can help you avoid the devastating outcomes caused by slab leaks. Remember, early detection is critical to thwarting any damages to your property caused by slab leaks.
At Guardian Plumbers, our slab leak experts can detect and repair leaks with minimal property damage. With our 24/7 availability, we provide solutions to your slab leak problems. Contact us today and say goodbye to the headaches caused by slab leaks!
