What Exactly Is a Slab Leak?
Picture a single-story house. Red door, four-paned windows––nothing special. The house itself rests on a slab, a piece of concrete that usually serves as the ground floor. Many homeowners can live in a house for decades and never give the foundation a second thought. Yet, if they experience high water bills, low water pressure, and other plumbing issues, there could be a slab leak.
Some reasons for slab leaks include root intrusion, shifting soil from rainstorms, and other things completely out of homeowners' control. Yet, while this situation may seem overwhelming, one has options if they suspect a slab leak. For instance, they could consult a plumber in their area. They can identify the source of the problem and get to work repairing it.
What Are Some Slab Leak Signs?
A slab leak can fester for months before it shows apparent signs. That's why knowing the symptoms of such a leak is so important. The sooner a homeowner gets a professional's help, the more damage they can mitigate. Some signs of a slab leak include:
- Warm spots on the floor. A homeowner's bare feet may sense warmer tiles, planks, and flooring than usual. That could mean a hot water leak, and the homeowner feels the water's warmth pooling beneath the floorboards.
- High water bills, no visible leak. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that most homeowners spend about $100 a month on their water bill. Yet, with an undetected leak, one could pay even more.
- Cracks in the floors or walls. The home's foundation may shift as a slab leak worsens, causing walls and floors to splinter.
Are Slab Leaks Dangerous?
A slab leak is no laughing matter. Some dangers of unaddressed slab leaks include:
- Mold and mildew growth. Where there's a leak, mold growth isn't far behind. Healthline notes that this substance can cause respiratory problems, such as coughing, sneezing, and wheezing. It also can eat away at a home's drywall and structure.
- A weakened foundation. If a home doesn't have a solid foundation, the county may deem it unsafe to inhabit. A weak foundation can lead to structural collapse, electrical fires, and other dangers.
- Slips and falls. A slab leak can cause water to seep through the home's floorboards. These puddles can put homeowners (especially seniors) at risk of serious fall accidents. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that slips can cause spinal cord trauma and traumatic brain injuries.
How Can a Professional Fix a Slab Leak?
Some things in life have a way of fixing themselves. Unfortunately, slab leaks are not one of them. They need immediate attention, or else the issue risks worsening. A professional may fix a slab leak by:
- Locating the leak's location
- Isolating the area
- Removing a section of flooring
- Replacing or repairing the leaking pipe
- Repaving over the area
A plumber can also offer special insight into how to prevent future slab leaks.
About B&L Plumbing
A slab leak can quickly lead to water damage, property destruction, and other headaches. That's why B&L Plumbing offers prompt, same-day service to its friends and neighbors in Colorado Springs, CO. Relying on their specialized training and unique skill set, these professionals know how to get jobs done quickly. Call now for slab leak services!
