SLAB LEAKS

Leaking pipes under the foundation are commonly caused by corrosion, especially in the iron water lines used prior to the 1970s.  There was also a period when certain types of copper lines prone to pinholes were used.  But any type of pipe can become leaky due to any sort of ground movement, excessive water pressure, or water hammer (“banging pipes” due to sudden pressure changes).

So how do you know if you have a slab leak?  Here are some important clues.  

If you hear sounds of running water with nothing turned on, that’s an emergency!  

• Cracks in floor tile, in walls, and even on the ceiling can indicate you have a water leak under your slab that’s undermined the foundation. 
• Low water pressure may also indicate a major plumbing problem. 
• Smaller leaks may show up as water stains, warm, or cold areas on the floor.  Laminate flooring may swell or buckle. 

But there may also be no symptom other than a jump in usage on your monthly water bill.  But there’s still progressive harm, and all leaks can suddenly worsen.

• A spot repair involves breaking through the floor than replacing just a small section of pipe.  It may be the best solution if the rest of the plumbing system is in good condition.  If the problem is close to the edge of the building it may be possible to reach the problem through digging alone.

• A re-pipe adds new plumbing through the attic or around the perimeter, bypassing the old pipes under the foundation.  New piping should last a lifetime, but any problems that occur in the future will be easily accessible.

• Pipelining applies a cured-in-place lining inside the existing pipe and is able to permanently seal small- to mid-size leaks. This repair eliminates the need for an invasive replacement of the pipe with a new one running through your home or jackhammering up your floor. 

• A pipe re-route is done by abandoning the pipe underground and replaced with a new pipe to connect the two points of the isolated pipe. The new pipe is installed through the walls and ceiling of your home requiring opening up walls and ceiling as needed.