What Is A Slab Leak?

Slab leak is a term used to refer to a leak somewhere in the water pipes underneath a concrete slab foundation. Slab leaks can be costly and time consuming to repair. Here are a few tips so you know what to be aware of.

• Can you hear water running when nothing’s on?
• Is there a warm spot on your floor when there didn’t use to be?
• Is the water meter running when no water is being used?

If you answered yes to any of these questions then it’s time to call a licensed plumber. But don’t worry, Slab leak repair is a common service most Plumbers in the AV will offer.

During the building process, it’s common for builders to route water pipes underground when the home or business is built on a concrete slab foundation. Steps are taken to protect the pipes against anything that could cause the pipes to leak. However, it’s pretty much impossible to protect them against everything. As I mentioned, slab leaks are a common issue in plumbing.

Now, we’re not going to do a full discussion on the subject because the internet has plenty of sources for information beyond what we’re saying here, and more. Many of you might prefer to look it up yourselves and that’s a great idea. For the rest of you that don’t have time to do your own investigating, we are going to explain several of the main reasons why they occur.

So, How Do Slab Leaks Happen?

The most common cause of slab leaks is due to pipe friction. What do you mean, pipe friction? Friction in your pipes can cause pinhole leaks in pipes under concrete slabs. Over time they can turn from pinhole leaks to serious water damage and expensive repairs. You definitely want to catch these types of leaks as soon as possible.

Here Are Some Ways That Friction Causes Holes In Pipes:

Soil underneath your concrete slab shifts and settles as your home or building weathers and ages. This ground action is literally the soil rubbing against the pipes. If and when that happens for long enough, pipes begin to get holes in them.

Another common reason for slab leaks is because hot water lines are continuously expanding and contracting as they heat and cool. As minor as that sounds, leaks in hot water pipes are a pretty common occurrence.

A third way friction is caused is by normal turbulence as water flows through the pipes. The pipes vibrate a little which causes continuous rubbing. The same vibration occurs as pressure changes when we turn the water on and off. Basically, given enough time, any of the above can cause a slab leak and lead to costly repairs with inconvenient periods of time without water.

As A Homeowner, How Can I find Out If I Have A Slab Leak?

You might ask how can I find a leak under the floor if there aren’t any visible signs? The easiest way is by listening for it which is a non-invasive technique. In fact, you might already be hearing water running, even though nothing’s turned on. A licensed plumber uses a specialized microphone and does the same thing by listening for running water before deciding on the best way to fix it. For home owners that have a stethoscope lying around the house, that would work.

As I mentioned above, the internet has lots more information than what you’ve read here. So remember, if you hear running water for no reason, you’ll know that the problem could in fact be a slab leak. If that happens to you, TWS Plumbing in Palmdale and Lancaster, your trusted local plumbers in the Antelope Valley, recommends hiring a licensed and reputable plumber with the right tools to assess and make any necessary repairs before it’s too late. If you don’t call us that’s okay, just be sure to hire a licensed plumbing professional if the problem arises. You will be glad you did!