Tips For Recognizing A Residential Slab Leak
No homeowner wants to deal with any type of leak in their plumbing system, but slab leaks can be especially problematic. Slab leaks happen when the pipes under a home's foundation crack or develop problems. Since the pipes are located underneath the foundation, slab leaks are not always immediately noticed, and repairing a slab leak can take a bit more time and effort than repairing a standard leak in a home. When it comes to slab leaks, it's important to notice the leak early so you can arrange for plumbing repairs as quickly as possible. Some of the most common indicators of a slab leak include:
Poor Water Pressure
In order for a plumbing system to operate properly, all pipes need to be in good working condition. When one or more pipes develop a crack or begin leaking, it can disrupt the pressure inside the plumbing system, resulting in poor water pressure. If you experience an unexplained drop in water pressure, take the time to inspect under your sinks and look for water damage inside your home that indicates that a pipe behind drywall may be damaged. In the event that you have bad water pressure but can't find any reason for it, it is in your best interest to contact a plumber to inspect the pipes under your foundation to detect slab leaks and make the necessary repairs.
Unusually High Water Bills
Most households use the same amount of water each month, so they tend to be able to estimate what their monthly water bill will be. When you receive a water bill that is drastically higher than normal, there is a good chance that there is something wrong with your plumbing system. If a pipe under your foundation cracks, a large amount of water can flow into the area, which drives up the amount of water used, as well as your water bill. Never dismiss a water bill that is much higher than normal—it is always a good idea to have your plumbing system inspected for slab leaks when this type of thing happens.
Flooring Issues
When there is a slab leak, the water level will continue to rise until it hits your subfloor. Once the water level hits the subfloor, you will most likely notice problems with your flooring. If you have carpeting in your home, you may begin to notice that there are unexplained damp spots in your carpet. Likewise, wood floor can become warped when exposed to excessive moisture. Water issues with your flooring typically point to a slab leak.