Leak Detection in austin, TX

A slab leak usually occurs when the pipes inside or underneath a home’s foundation begin to leak. Often difficult to detect unless there are obvious signs, these leaks can seem small and insignificant at first. However, if left untreated, they can lead to significant damage and costly repairs. Slab leaks can saturate the soil under your home, making floors uneven. The result is a property that slowly but surely sinks into the ground. It’s vital to understand the primary causes of this substantial issue to prevent your property from such a fate.

Improper pipe installation

Perhaps one of the most common causes of slab leaks is improperly installed or poor-quality pipes. Pipe installation is a process that requires patience and care, so if pipes are bent or dented during installation, that could cause potential leaks. Similarly, poorly constructed pipes won’t have the durability necessary to function correctly over time.

Ground pressure

Ground pressure is a known culprit of slab leaks. Shifting soil can cause your foundation to move, resulting in your home moving and putting pressure on your pipes. Earthquakes, underground streams, and soil erosion can also cause foundation shifts that put unnecessary stress on your pipes.

Poor water quality and chemistry

It’s always important to watch your water’s pH level, not only to prevent slab leaks but also for your overall health. Excessively acidic or alkaline water can corrode your pipes and cause slab leaks. Acidic water can be identified by blue or green stains in your bathtub, sink, or shower and a chlorine-like smell in your water.

If you think you’re experiencing a slab leak, our professional plumbers want to help you! Call us today or request an estimate for service today!

Spotting Possible Slab Leaks

Despite the difficulty of detecting slab leaks, there are some red flags you can look for that signal a problem.

Some signs of a possible slab leak include:

• Wet spots – If your pipes are leaking, water will reach places it wouldn’t otherwise, such as inside walls and around appliances.
• Mold growth – According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mold is attracted to moisture, so a leaking pipe is prone to causing mold growth.
• Foundation damage – Prolonged water exposure from slab leaks can cause foundation damage. If you notice wet spots or cracks in your walls, floors, or basement, then a slab leak may be the cause.
• Foul odors – Because your plumbing connects to your sewer line or septic tank, a leak often results in sewage smells around the damaged area.
• No water – Leaks can prevent water from reaching a sink, washing machine, or kitchen appliance depending on where the leak occurs.
• Low pressure – A minor leak might not prevent water from reaching its intended destination entirely, but the water could lack its normal pressure.

Noticing these signs gives you a chance to call our technicians to fix the issue before it becomes a bigger problem. We also offer our emergency plumbing service 24/7, and our prices are the same regardless of the time of day you schedule an appointment.

For cost-saving services like slab leak detection, call Mr. Rooter Plumbing of austin today or request a job estimate today!