Slab Leak Repair in Columbia City, IN

One of the most common plumbing issues in Columbia City is slab leaks. This type of leak develops under the foundation slab of a home or commercial property. They are hidden by the heavy slab and are hard to find and to fix. This takes specialized training and experience.

With early discovery, experts can find the source of the leak and repair it promptly. The damage caused by the leak can be repaired or managed and future damage prevented. But how does a building owner know they have a slab leak? There are signs to look for before calling a plumber for help.

The Floor Has Hot Spots

One or more warm or hot spots on the slab floor may indicate a hot water line that is broken and leaking. There will not be hot spots with plumbing lines in good condition.

Water Leaking From Under or Around the Foundation Slab

When the building owner notices these water leaks on or around the slab, the situation is getting more serious and needs immediate attention. Accumulated water in puddles or streams coming from the building slab are a sign of plumbing leaks and trouble. Floors that feel wet when no water has been used or water running down walls are both bad signs. These types of leaks are serious and must be addressed as soon as possible. They will increase water bills and wastewater.

Stoppages and Backups in Tubs, Showers, and Toilets

If the home or commercial building has toilets, tubs, sinks, or showers that are not working correctly, it may because of broken water lines feeding them or draining from them. Finding out which water appliances are backing up can help locate the broken water lines. Finding the origin of the leak is important. If these water appliances are the only problem, look for other causes for them backing up. Then search for damaged water pipes.

The Foundation Shows Movement or Cracks

Water is very powerful and can cause concrete to crack or move with its force. There is always a reason for concrete movement or cracks, so don’t ignore these danger signs. As concrete slab damage gets worse, it is more expensive to repair so get help quickly. A licensed plumber can locate pipe leaks and repair them quickly to limit the foundation slab damage.

Unpleasant Smells

As water leaks around and through cracks in slabs, it can cause mold and mildew to form. The mold and mildew are what cause the unpleasant smells as they damage other damp building materials. Getting rid of the water problem is the only way to get rid of the smells and mold and mildew.

Improper Installation of Pipes or Pre-damage

When the plumbing was being installed, the use of damaged pipes or bad installation practices can cause big leakage problems in the future. It is difficult to repair these water pipes after the house is sitting on top of them.

Abrasion

As water moves through water pipes it can cause them to expand and contract. This causes slight movement. The pipes can be rubbing against other pipes, gravel, or concrete causing wear and damage over time.

Corrosion

Pipes that are located underground come in contact with dirt, rocks, and moisture. Over time this can cause the pipes to corrode and need replacement or repair. Copper pipes might be more prone to this type of corrosion.

Slab leaks are a problem the homeowner needs to watch for and if it occurs they must be repaired as soon as possible. The longer the leak is allowed to go unchecked, the more damage and expense will be incurred. Keep the above signs of slab leaks in your mind and get repairs done quickly if a leak occurs. It will save money and slab damage.

Make sure to contact a plumbing company such as Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling who has a good reputation and years of experience. Check for licensing, insurance, and qualifications. Don’t be afraid to ask for several quotes from companies near you. Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling hires qualified plumbers and then gives them more training in the areas of work the company specializes in. Don’t be afraid to ask for references and check with local online rating companies and the BBB for complaints against the company or customer service ratings.

It is a good idea to have a trusted plumbing company send out their technicians to inspect the whole plumbing system to make sure it is up to modern codes and operating properly. They can find damaged pips or problems in the making and repair them. Once you have this inspection report, you can use it as a baseline to make sure your plumbing system stays in good repair.