How to Detect a Slab Leak | Signs & Repair Solutions

How Serious is a Slab Leak?

A leak in the plumbing under a slab foundation is serious for homeowners. Your concrete foundation supports the weight of the entire house. When water sneaks under the structure, serious damage can occur. Slab leaks will cause: 

• Cracks in walls and foundations 
• High water bills 
• Foul odors
• Low water pressure
• Uneven floors 

In extreme cases, water seeping through the slab foundation can cause your whole house to shift and sink. Some homeowners have experienced floor planks popping up in rooms. Even a tiny hole in a buried hot water line can be the culprit of destruction. An annual plumbing inspection by skilled professionals is the best way to detect slab leaks early. 

What are the Signs of a Water Leak in Foundation?

If you suspect a water leak in your foundation, there are a few signs you can watch out for. Firstly, monitor your water bills; an unexplained increase could indicate a leak. Other signs of foundation leak could be damp spots on the floor or carpet, a musty smell, or visible signs of mold or mildew. Hot spots on the floor can also be an indicator, as well as decreased water pressure in your faucets. Finally, if you hear running water when nothing is turned on, you shouldn’t hesitate to investigate further for a leak under the slab. Catching these signs of water leak in the foundation early can save you much trouble later. 

Do You Need a Plumber to Detect a Slab Leak? 

Even if you know how to inspect a water meter box, you can easily miss very small leaks that will not cause the meter indicator dial to move. The movement on the meter indicator dial will only tell you there’s a leak somewhere. Professional plumbers can use their equipment and knowledge to pinpoint and repair hidden slab leaks in your home. They also may find other critical repairs that can be easily overlooked. Your foundation and the structure of your home are too important not to hire a licensed and insured professional plumber to detect and repair the damage. Remember, if something goes wrong, the plumbing company will be responsible for any damages, freeing you of any risk with DIY projects.

Repairing the Plumbing Under Slab Foundation 

There are several approaches to repairing plumbing under slab foundations. One option is jackhammering. Essentially, a jackhammer breaks through the concrete, allowing you to reach the section of pipe that needs repairing. 

Another option is to reroute the plumbing pipes around the slab. This involves capping off the lines into the slab and creating a new plumbing system to replace the old under-slab pipes. 

In some parts of the country, they can dig tunnels under the house to repair slab leaks. It’s a less destructive method, but it can get expensive. 

How Common are Leaks Under Slab? 

Concrete slab foundations are standard in many homes. Slab foundations enclose the water lines and pipes within the foundation and are used because they are cost-effective. Over time, those pipes can wear out, leading to leaks or cracks. Water will then start to seep into your foundation and the surrounding ground. Repairs for under slab plumbing are common, yet many homeowners are unaware of them. 

Need Slab Leak Detection for Your Plumbing? Call Moe’s! 

Moe’s has the experts for under slab leak detection and repairs you can rely on. Our professional plumbers will get the job done right the first time. Detecting slab leaks early will save you from expensive plumbing repairs in the future. We offer a wide range of expert plumbing repair services with competitive pricing. For more information or to schedule an appointment.