Some people derive pleasure from looking after their homes since it’s their prime source of comfort. But among other things, plumbing problems can become your biggest woe. As a responsible homeowner, you need to stay on top of your plumbing repair game and make sure there are no culprits lurking in the corners, under the foundation or behind the walls.
However, slab leaks can spread undetectably and cause severe structural damage. If you want to be proactive with plumbing repairs, you need to know the basics of slab leaks and how to handle such emergencies.
What is a Slab Leak?
In order to make sure your house has a robust foundation, construction contractors lay a concrete slab foundation. The remaining structure is built on this concrete base. Naturally, any damage to this base can jolt the structural integrity of the house.
A plumbing network of water lines is laid beneath this foundation. Damage to these plumbing pipes can leak water into the concrete slab, which is why it’s called slab leak. Water damage due to slab leaks can prove destructive for the house and you need to act fast to control and repair the damages.
Causes of Slab Leaks
Excessive Pressure
Underground pipelines bear the burden of a heavy slab foundation. Clay soil tends to expand when moist and contract when dry. The constant change in state levies pressure on the underground pipes. The pressure ultimately causes the pipes to crack and leak.
Shifts in the soil beneath the slab also shakes the foundation of the structure, in case of an earthquake. Any form of pressure—natural or artificial—can lead to slab leaks.
Corrosion
Soil has a tendency to soak up moisture from the environment. The water content and other metals present in the soil can corrode metal plumbing pipes that are laid underground. Galvanic corrosion occurs when two different metals come in contact and react together to disintegrate the material of the pipes. This can create holes in the pipes and lead to slab leaks.
Abrasion
When water flows into pipes with pressure, they tend to vibrate. These slight motions cause the pipes to rub or hit against hard concrete or rebar that they’re in contact with. This is called abrasion. The point where abrasion is the greatest will suffer the most damage and lead to an ultimate pipe leak.
Symptoms of Slab Leaks
- Puddles on the outside of the building
- Wet carpets
- Sound of trickling water
- Mold growth
- High water bills
- Cracks in the foundation
If you’re noticing any such signs, call one of the best slab leak repair plumbers in Fort Worth. We’re available for quotes and consultation at 1-817-244-0614 and would be happy to look into the problem!
