Slab Leaks in Arlington, TX – Common Causes and Prevention Techniques
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A slab leak is a very common but a serious issue which homeowners face in Arlington, TX. These damp spots in your living room can weaken the foundation of your house and cause damage to your furniture and property. Slab leaks are a big challenge but a preventable one. Once you know the causes of a slab leak, it is easier to be proactive and prevent it. However, it is important to understand what a slab leak is and how it is caused.
Understanding Slab Leaks
A slab leak is typically any leakage in the copper pipes installed under the concrete of your house. In Arlington, TX, most homes have a water structure under the concrete slab. These kinds of houses are known as slab homes. A leakage in any of the pipes under the concrete can cause water to seep into the concrete which can dampen the carpet or floor and can weaken the foundation of your home.
A slab leak in Arlington, TX, is a challenging plumbing problem which needs immediate attention. The level of difficulty that plumbers face in performing this task makes it an expensive plumbing problem. It is not necessary that you will notice water puddles or damp carpets in your house when you are facing the issue of a slab leak. There are many other signs which can give you an indication of this problem. Other common signs of a slab leak in Arlington, TX are changes in utility bills and decreased water pressure in faucets and showers.
Causes of a Slab Leak
A slab leak in Arlington is a very common problem because most of the homes are slab homes. Common causes of a slab leak in Arlington, TX are:
Poor Quality of Material Used During Installation
The quality of the pipes used during installation in the house is a very crucial factor in determining the frequency and intensity of leaks. If the contractor has used poor quality material, the pipes are likely to leak, and your house will face the issue of a slab leak. On the other hand, if high-quality PVC pipes are used, they are likely to prevent you from experiencing the slab leak nightmare inArlington, TX.
During the installation process, if the pipes were bent or damaged, there is a high probability that they will leak and cause damage to your house and property.
Water Quality
Water quality also affects the life and condition of pipes. This, in turn, affects the chances of a slab leak. Water with extreme pH values can corrode the pipes. This means that highly acidic (a pH value less than 5) or highly alkaline (a pH value of more than 11) water can pose a serious threat to your pipes.
The ideal pH of water should be between 6.5 and 8.5. Anything above or lower than this range can corrode the pipes, and you will end up experiencing the problem of a slab leak in Arlington, TX.
Corrosion
Constant friction against concrete, other pipes, sand and gravel under the surface can seriously damage the pipes. The chemicals absorbed by the soil also have a tendency to react with the pipes and eventually damage them. The corrosion of pipes is an important factor that may lead to a slab leak in Arlington, TX.
Internal Pressure
If the size of the pipe is not in accordance with the water pressure, the pipe is bound to get damaged. Excessive water pressure inside the pipes can internally weaken the pipe. Weak pipes are more prone to leaks and can cause the problem of a slab leak in Arlington, TX.
External Pressure
Pipes do not only face internal pressure, but they are also exposed to external pressure. Factors like soil erosion, floods, and earthquakes can put pressure on the pipes and deteriorate them. These damaged pipes are another common cause of slab leaks in Arlington, TX.
Obsolete Infrastructure
Contractors in the past have always used copper and steel pipes for construction. However, metal pipes are more prone to rust and erosion. This is the reason why homes with older infrastructure face the issue of slab leaks more frequently when compared to homes with PVC pipes.
Contractors now rely heavily on the use of PVC pipes as they do not rust. This helps in overcoming the problems associated with the use of copper and steel pipes.
Ways to Prevent Slab Leak
Understanding the main causes of a slab leak can help you in preventing this challenging plumbing issue.
Adjust Water Pressure
One of the simplest ways to prevent a slab leak in Arlington, TX, is to adjust the water pressure according to the size of the pipe. If the water pressure is too high, it might give you a feeling of more water flowing through your shower and faucets, but it can be detrimental to the health of your pipes.
You can adjust this problem by adjusting the water pressure using the gauge installed in your house.
Adjust the Water pH
The ideal pH of water should range between 6.5 and 8.5. However, it is practically not possible to get water that is of ideal pH from the municipal authorizes. A professional plumber can help you solve this problem by installing a device to regulate the pH level of water that is coming into your house. This simple gadget can prevent the problem of a slab leak in Arlington, TX.
Avoid the Use of Harsh Chemicals
Regular use of drain opening chemicals can reduce the life of your pipes and can cause a slab leak. In case there is an issue of a clogged drain, it is best to contact a professional plumber who can solve this problem without damaging your pipes.
If you notice a puddle of water or a damp carpet in your house in Arlington, TX, contact Benjamin Franklin. We provide reliable slab leak treatment at a reasonable price. We take pride in offering valuable services to help you solve a wide range of plumbing problems. From clogged toilets to sewer line backup and slab leaks, we are there to do all the dirty jobs for you. Call today at 814-405-0434 to know more about our work.