Summers | Slab Leak Repair | Warsaw, IN
Slab leaks are a widespread occurrence. A slab leak is a type of water leak that will develop beneath the concrete slab of a home or building. Because of the location of the leaks, they can be cumbersome because they are difficult to reach and repair. Because of this difficulty, a professional must be contacted to perform the needed repairs. With early detection, the leak can likely be found and fully repaired; however, it is also plausible that the damage has already taken place but can be managed, and prevention for any further damage implemented. To prevent massive damage, home, and building owners must understand the signs of a slab leak to contact a plumbing professional. The list below is some of the most common symptoms of a slab leak.
Flooring Hot Spots
One of the most obvious and common signs of a slab leak is hot spots on the home floor. The hot spots are warm areas on the floor that signal a home water line has busted beneath the slab. In this instance, this will only occur if a hot water line has broken. If it is water carrying cold water, it will not be felt on the floor.
Water Protrusion
When a leak is recognized, the issue has already escalated into a serious problem; thus, immediate action must be taken. If there are puddles or pools of water noticed, that means that water is presently coming out of the pipe system and has leaked to the point of coming through walls and floors. If a floor continuously feels wet, regardless of whether water has recently been used, it is an excellent indication that a leak has occurred.
Clogs or Back-Ups in Showers, Tubs, and Toilets
Improperly functioning showers, tubs, and toilets are a sign that there is potentially a water line damaged or broken. When noticed, it is important to figure out which of the fixtures first showed signs of a clog or backup to determine the approximate location of the leak so that other leaks can be investigated. If this is the only symptom of a leak, it will be best to determine if another type of problem is causing the backup before slab leak repairs are considered.
Foundation Shifts
Water can be a powerful force. Over time water damage can harm the foundation of a home or building. It can also cause visible cracks in the walls and floor of homes. If cracks are noticed, this is a good indication of a movement in the foundation because of a slab leak. Because of the complex nature of slab leak repairs, it is important to resolve the issue quickly before any more damage can occur.
Foul Odors
If left untreated, water damage will cause mold and mildew. When wood is saturated with water, it becomes a breeding ground for various forms of mildew and mold. These will both emanate a bad smell. Oftentimes to order will be noticed before any sightings of mold or mildew. This problem will not go away on its own and will only worsen and, in extreme cases, cause health issues, so mold and mildew must be treated immediately, and the leak both found and repaired.
Materials Damage and Poor Installation
When homes and buildings are constructed, it is common for the materials to have minor imperfections or be slightly damaged. This is usually not a serious situation; however, if pipes are damaged, it can cause problems in the long run. Improperly installed pipes can also cause major plumbing issues. Homeowners should conduct ample research when deciding on companies to use for any plumbing installation.
Abrasion and Corrosion
When water moves through the plumbing system, it will cause expansion and contraction of the pipes. Depending on how the home was constructed, this can cause problems. If the initial installation of the plumbing system caused exposure to gravel, concrete, or other pipes, it could cause the materials to rub together. This friction will ultimately cause wear on the pipes. Pipes are made to be located underground, so it is natural for them to be exposed to soil; however, this exposure can cause corrosion over time. Modern pipes are better equipped to handle the exposure, but older copper pipes are more susceptible to soil corrosion.
When a slab leak is detected, immediate action needs to be taken. This quick action is the best way to ensure that significant damage is eliminated. Understanding the signs and symptoms of slab leaks can ensure homeowners will recognize one quickly and correctly. Professional plumbers are trained and knowledgeable in detecting and repairing slab leaks to further issues.
