Are you beginning to see a large spike in your water bill? Have you stepped out on your carpet and noticed it’s damp? Did you notice a decrease in your water pressure? If you said yes to any of these questions, then you might be dealing with a slab leak.
What Is A Slab Leak?
A slab leak occurs when the pipes inside or underneath the home’s foundation begin to leak. Ignoring the warning signs mentioned above can damage your home’s foundation.
What Causes Slab Leaks?
1. Time
This is one of the biggest causes. Older homes built before the 1980s have a greater risk of developing slab leaks, due to corrosion & abrasion of the pipes.
2. Improper Pipe Installation
If your pipes were installed improperly or they’re just poor in quality, the constant water flow can lead to leaks.
3. Added Pressure From Mother Nature
Any shifts like soil erosion, underground streams, or earthquakes can add more pressure to your pipes and negatively affect them.
4. Chemical Reactions
When your water’s pH level is off (too acidic or too alkaline), it can affect the pipes and lead to deterioration. The normal pH level is anywhere between 6.5 and 8.5.
What Type Of Damage Can Slab Leaks Cause?
- Ruined carpeting and flooring: With the water seeping through your home, your floors will begin to deteriorate. Your carpet and flooring become waterlogged and tiles may crack.
- Unwanted odors: Leaks in your pipes may come from the sewage line, which means the odors in your home will smell like it too.
- Mold and mildew: Mold will thrive in your home because of the increase of moisture. Not only is it difficult to spot, but it’s harmful to your air quality.
- Destroyed yard: Leaks may reach the outside of your home too and flood the grass, concrete, and other landscaping.
- Devastation to your foundation: This may be the worst damage that slab leaks can cause. The exposure to leaking can weaken your home’s structural foundation, which can cause cracks and shifts that make it unstable.
Hire A Professional Plumber For Your Slab Leak Repair
Slab leaks have the potential to cause major water damage to your home’s foundation. If you believe you are experiencing a slab leak, contact a professional immediately. This is not something we recommend you DIY. For high-quality assistance from experts, contact Nuckols Plumbing, Heating & Cooling today or give us a call at (804) 214-2077.