Slab leaks can cause severe structural damage if left untreated. Kyzar Air Conditioning is a top slab leaks company specializing in detecting and repairing leaks beneath your home’s foundation. Our non-invasive techniques help minimize damage while ensuring a lasting fix. Call 772-356-4148 for an estimate and let us protect your home from costly water damage.
What Is a Slab Leak?
As a homeowner, you may be aware of common plumbing issues like clogged drains, leaking faucets, or broken pipes. But one problem that often goes unnoticed until it becomes serious is a slab leak. These hidden leaks can cause significant damage to your home’s foundation, and they often require specialized knowledge to detect and repair.
What Is a Slab Leak?
A slab leak occurs when a pipe beneath the concrete foundation of your home develops a leak. The term “slab” refers to the concrete slab that forms the foundation of many homes. This type of leak is difficult to detect because the pipes are buried under the concrete, out of sight and out of reach. Slab leaks can happen in both older and newer homes, though they may be more common in homes with aging plumbing systems.
There are two primary types of pipes that are typically found in the slab of a home: copper and PEX (cross-linked polyethylene). Both types can be prone to leaks, although the causes may differ.
How Do Slab Leaks Develop?
Several factors can lead to slab leaks, with the most common being the natural wear and tear on pipes over time. Here are the main causes:
Corrosion of Pipes
Copper pipes, which are commonly used in older homes, can corrode over time due to exposure to water and air. As copper corrodes, it becomes weak and prone to developing pinhole leaks. This corrosion can also be exacerbated by the water’s pH level, which can cause more rapid deterioration. Once a copper pipe begins to corrode, water can leak into the surrounding foundation, potentially leading to extensive damage.
Water Pressure Issues
If the water pressure in your home is too high, it can strain the pipes, particularly those located in the slab. High water pressure forces more water through the pipes, increasing the likelihood of leaks forming over time. This constant pressure on the pipes can weaken them, leading to cracks and leaks.
Ground Shifting
Natural shifts in the ground beneath your home, such as settling or shifting soil, can also cause pipes to crack or break. In areas with expansive soil, this type of shifting is more common. When the soil moves, it puts pressure on the pipes, which can eventually cause them to rupture or leak.
Improper Installation
In some cases, slab leaks can be caused by poor installation practices when the home was first built. If the pipes were not installed properly—whether they were placed too close together, had improper support, or were installed at the wrong angle—there’s a greater chance they will develop leaks over time.
Abrasion
Constant movement of water through pipes, especially if they are not properly cushioned or supported, can cause them to wear down over time. This constant rubbing against the concrete or other materials can cause the pipes to erode, eventually leading to a slab leak.
How to Identify a Slab Leak
One of the challenges of dealing with slab leaks is that they are often not noticeable right away. Since the pipes are buried under the foundation, the leak can go undetected for a long time. However, there are a few signs to watch for that may indicate the presence of a slab leak:
Increased Water Bills
A sudden spike in your water bill, even though your water usage has remained the same, can be a sign of a hidden leak. If water is leaking under your home, it will be counted as part of your water usage, even though it’s not being used in your home’s plumbing fixtures.
Damp or Warm Spots on the Floor
Slab leaks often result in damp or warm areas on the floors of your home. This happens because water seeps into the foundation and starts to pool underneath the slab. If you notice any spots that feel warmer than the rest of the floor or seem to be damp, it’s important to have your plumbing inspected immediately.
Low Water Pressure
Slab leaks can also cause a decrease in water pressure. As water escapes from the pipes under the foundation, there’s less water flowing through the rest of the plumbing system. If you notice a significant drop in water pressure, especially in multiple faucets or fixtures, a slab leak could be the culprit.
Cracks in the Walls or Foundation
As water seeps through the concrete slab, it can cause the foundation to shift. Over time, this can lead to cracks in the walls, floors, or even the foundation itself. If you notice cracks in your home’s foundation or walls that weren’t there before, it could be a sign of a slab leak.
Sound of Running Water
Sometimes, you may hear the sound of running water even when all the faucets are turned off. This could indicate a leak somewhere in the plumbing system, and if it’s located under the slab, it could be a sign of a slab leak.
What to Do If You Suspect a Problem
If you notice any of the above signs, it’s important to act quickly. Slab leaks can lead to significant water damage, mold growth, and foundation issues if left unaddressed. Here are the steps you should take:
Call a Professional Plumber
Slab leaks require specialized knowledge and equipment to detect and repair. If you suspect you have a slab leak, it’s essential to call a professional plumber right away. They have the tools necessary to locate the leak using methods such as pressure testing, thermal imaging, or sound detection.
Conduct a Leak Detection Test
Once a plumber arrives, they will likely conduct a series of tests to confirm the presence of a slab leak. This may involve turning off the water supply to the house and checking for pressure drops or using electronic equipment to locate the exact point of the leak.
Repair Options
Once the leak is identified, the plumber will discuss the best repair options. In some cases, the affected pipes may need to be replaced entirely, while in others, repairs can be made by accessing the pipe through the foundation. Some common methods for slab leak repair include tunneling underneath the house, rerouting pipes, or using epoxy to seal the leak.
Preventing Slab Leaks
While some slab leaks are caused by unavoidable factors like ground shifting, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk:
- Regular plumbing inspections: Have your plumbing system inspected regularly by a professional to catch early signs of wear or corrosion.
- Monitor water pressure: Make sure your home’s water pressure is within the recommended range to reduce strain on your pipes.
- Ensure proper drainage: Proper drainage around your home can help prevent water from accumulating near the foundation and causing shifting or settling.
At Kyzar Air Conditioning and Plumbing in Port St. Lucie, we specialize in slab leak detection and repairs. Let us help keep your home safe and d
Trusted Slab Leaks Company for Effective Repairs
A slab leak can cause significant damage to your home if not addressed promptly. From increased water bills to cracks in the foundation, these leaks can be difficult to detect, but early identification is key to preventing further issues. If you suspect a slab leak in your home, don’t wait—contact a professional plumber as soon as possible to prevent costly damage. Kyzar Air Conditioning specializes in detecting and repairing slab leaks with minimal disruption to your home. Call 772-356-4148 today for an estimate and let us protect your home from costly damage.