How to Detect Slab Leaks and Repair Them | Slab Leak Detection in Arlington, TX
Slab leaks occur when water begins to leak under the concrete foundation of your home. They can prove to be very dangerous if they aren’t spotted at once. This is why it is very important to recognize signs of slab leaks.
This article will guide you on the causes, detection, and repairs for slab leaks.
Why are Slab Leaks Dangerous?
Homeowners need to realize how dangerous slab leaks can be. They need to deal with this issue at once or it can create a multitude of problems.
A lot of health issues can develop as a result of slab leaks. Stagnant water and wet conditions give rise to mold and fungal bacteria. These have an unpleasant smell and pollute the air in your home. Your family may begin to face respiratory problems as mold can cause the air quality to deteriorate. For the safety of your family slab leak detection in Arlington, TX is very important.
If the walls, floor or furniture in your house is wet, it can actually attract termites. Since they thrive under such conditions, it could mean a huge cost in repair or replacement.
Slab leak damage can actually result in high costs. Water leaks or pipe damage means high water bills. It will also result in a lot of water wastage which isn’t a sustainable way to live. Energy costs may also rise if gas or electricity lines are damaged because of slab leaks.
The biggest cost, however, can occur if the structure of the house gets damaged. Damage to the foundation can make your house an unsafe place to live in. Repairing the structure can mean unnecessary costs for homeowners.
Causes of Slab Leaks
Clay causes damage to concrete slabs as they can shift and heave. This creates pressure on the concrete slabs which can develop cracks or shift under the weight. Clay is highly susceptible to expansion and contraction if there are changes in the humidity and moisture levels.
If the foundation of your house was made from different types of clay, it can cause tension between the materials. They can expand or contract differently according to the moisture levels. It is important to be aware of what type of foundation your house has to make slab leak detection in Arlington, TX easier.
When the concrete shifts, it can damage the plumbing of the house. The pressure from the cement can break the pipes which cause leaks to develop. You will definitely need slab leak repair in Arlington, TX in such a case.
Signs of Slab Leaks
Slab leak detection in Arlington, TX can become easier if you know the signs. Below are some ways you can spot whether your house has developed a slab leak.
Sounds of Leaking Water
Listen for sounds of water leaking in your house. If you notice such sounds, despite no one using water in the house, it can be a sign of slab leaks.
Puddles on the Floor
Slab leaks can result in excess water pooling on the floor. If random puddles begin to appear in your home, your house may have developed slab leaks. Make sure to call for slab leak repair in Arlington, TX at once as stagnant water means mold, fungus, and mosquitoes.
Hot Spots in Floors
The shifting of the foundation can break hot water pipes leading up to the bathroom. Hot water leaks will cause hot spots to develop in your flooring. If any portion of your floor feels oddly warm to touch, it can be a sign of slab leaks.
Water Heater Problems
If the hot water pipe breaks, your water heater may begin to work overtime to fill your water needs. This can actually have a huge impact on your energy bills so make sure to call for an expert in slab leak detection in Arlington, TX.
Cracks in the Slab
Water can weaken the foundation of your home. This causes the slab to crack or shift. Although not a completely conclusive indicator, it can be a sign of slab leaks. Just to be sure, it is better to call for expert slab leak detection in Arlington, TX.
Development of Mold
Moisture or saturation of water can give rise to mold in your home. The lowest level of your house, like basements, can be the perfect dark place for mold to develop. Check under any carpets or rugs in your basement for mold.
Unpleasant Smells
Damp, musty stenches can develop if there is a slab leak in your home. If this smell is persistent, it could be a sign for mold or fungus that develops due to slab leaks.
High Water Bills
If there is no change in the usage of water and your water bill is strangely high, you may have a slab leak. Leaking pipes can actually have a significant impact on your water bill.
If two or more of these symptoms are seen around your house, you may need slab leak repairs. Do not hesitate to call an expert or else the problem may worsen due to neglect.
Slab Leak Repairs
Slab leaks may occur due to a wide range of problems. To fix them you will surely need an expert as slab leak repair can be tricky. Repairs for slab leaks need professional oversight as it can have an impact on your house structure.
To solve the problem professionals of slab leak repair in Arlington, TX may need to:
- Replace old pipes as they are more susceptible to collapsing. Aged pipes made of cast iron, clay or wood like the Orangeburg variety need more repairs and maintenance, so it is better to get an upgrade.
- Cut open the foundation to access the pipes of your house.
- Fix the epoxy pipe coating to prevent leaks.
It is important to call an expert for slab leak repairs as they can fix the issue in a cost-effective way.