The slab of your home is the concrete foundation. A water leak here typically occurs below this concrete layer. This type of water leak in particular, if left alone, can cause significant damage to the structural integrity of your home. Early detection is vital to avoid costly repairs.
Detecting a leak in or under the slab can be difficult, so let’s take a look at the most common signs that you may have a slab leak.
Increase in Water Bill
Your water bill and all utility bills will vary month to month. Variability in your water bill could be due to someone visiting and using extra water, taking extra showers, more cooking at home, etc. However, if your statement jumps up with no clear cause, that could be due to a water leak. Even a small drip uses a considerable amount of water over 24 hours.
Do you suspect a leak based on your high water bill? Compare your bill to the bill for the same month of the previous year. If there is a significant difference, contact a plumber.
Low Water Pressure
A drop in water pressure may be a sign of a slab leak. Another leak may not cause a decrease in water pressure, but a slab leak occurs in your main water line. This area on your water line is the entry point for water into your house. Even a small leak here can have a noticeable impact.
Water Creating Pools
Pools of water on your floors can also be a sign of a slab leak. Water tries to flow to the lowest point possible. When there is an issue in the slab piping, water will escape through the foundation from the outside. As time goes by, these puddles of water on the floor tend to grow larger.
Look to the areas where you have major plumbing such as your kitchen and bathrooms. If you can rule out a water fixture problem or a hose in the area, you may have a slab leak.
Hot Areas on Your Floor
Have you noticed strangely hot areas of your floor? You may have a slab leak. A slab leak causes flows of hot water to seep into places it doesn’t belong. The leaked hot water causes the concrete to heat up.
You should be able to notice a difference in hardwood, linoleum, or tile flooring. Cat owners, did you recently see your pet laying in a particular area? You may have a hot spot.
Mildew or Mold Growth
A slab leak usually works behind the scenes. The water seeping through the slab in your basement may lead to the growth of mildew or mold behind your walls or under your carpets. It’s tough to solve or identify problems you can’t see. Instead of looking for this issue, you could notice a musty smell. If you do, call a plumber right away to protect your family’s health.
Kelly Plumbing Company technicians have the skill and experience to identify and fix your slab leaks or any other plumbing issues. Contact us today 24/7 to see schedule your service.
