Slab leaks occur when pipelines running below a concrete floor or foundation develop a leak.
Slab leaks sneak up on you at random times. As it is not visible, it is difficult to detect without manually inspecting it. It is common in homes of southern California and homeowners should know how to detect slab leaks and what to do if a slab leak is found.
Causes of Slab leaks
1. A slab leak can occur due to movement in the ground. This happens as the soil the house is built on is already unstable. When your home shifts, pipelines experience more pressure leading to small cracks and holes. In the worst-case scenario, the pipe may break.
2. Damaged or low-quality materials used to build the water lines can cause damage in the long run. Poor quality pipes corrode faster and cause leaks. Incorrectly installed pipelines also contribute to the formation of a slab leak.
3. Over time, pipes experience wear and tear when other pipes, gravel or even concrete rub against them. This is common in regions where the temperature fluctuates causing the pipelines to contract and expand rapidly.
Warning signs of a slab leak
1. An increase in your water bill
If you receive an unusually high water bill and you haven't been using excess water, then you have a leak. If you cannot detect a leak within your home then it is likely a slab leak.
2. Low water pressure
When you have a leak, less water runs through the pipes thereby reducing the water pressure. If you suddenly notice a decrease in water pressure and there is no obvious leak then it is a slab leak. Immediately contact slab leak repair service San diego or Tustin to identify the location of the leak.
3. Water stains on your floor
Water from a slab leak can only go up. This leads to water stains on your floor and in worst cases you floor becomes wet. You will also be able to hear water flowing below your floor.
4. Presence of an unpleasant smell
Mould and mildew growth takes place due to the moisture under your flooring and in your carpets. If you observe a must odour coming from your floors then start inspecting for a slab leak. As this is a serious issue, contact slab water leak repair Laguna Hills or Irvine to have your home check for leaks.
Once the leak is detected, the professional will start the repair process with consist of the following methods.
1. Opening the foundation: This is an intrusive technique involving removing the entire slab to reach the damaged pipe.
2. Re-piping: This is done when the entire piping system needs to be replaced. When the pipes are old and one pipe springs a leak, the plumber may opt to replace the entire piping system rather than just changing one single pipe.
3. Pipe coating: In this method, pipes are coated with an epoxy solution to fix the leak. This is an easy less intrusive and environment-friendly method and is highly recommended.
Cost of slab leak repair
Average slab water leak repair Tustin costs $2,280. An easy to fix leak costs $630, while a leak in a difficult location will cost you $4,400 or higher. Slab leak repair service irvine also roughly charge the same about. The prices vary depending on the location of the leaky pipe.