Slab leaks are some of the most difficult plumbing problems to deal with in a home. Simply put, these are leaks inside water pipes under the home’s foundation or the concrete slab on which your home sits. These leaks can cause massive damage to your home, so when they happen, it’s critical that you act fast.
At Bienvenu Brothers, we have years of experience in repairing slab leaks and we understand the importance of getting it done quickly, correctly, and safely. In this guide, we’ll explain some Do’s And Don’ts around slab leak repair to ensure your home is well taken care of.
Here are the do’s and don’ts of addressing slab leak repairs.
Do Take Notice of Signs
In most instances, only professionals with high-tech tools can determine the source of the slab leak, but there are certain signs that homeowners should be looking for, including:
- Constant sound of running water
- High water bills
- Wet carpets, baseboards, or floors
- Low water pressure
- A shift in the foundation
If you notice any of these signs, then you may have a slab leak.
Don’t Wait to Call an Expert
Slab leaks can cause major problems over time, so if you suspect you have a slab leak, then you need to call a plumber as soon as possible. If you don’t, the problem may get worse, and the repair will be more costly in the end.
Do Understand How Slab Leaks Happen
Slab leaks can be caused by general wear and tear, soil chemical corrosion or improper installation. Hot water corrodes pipes from the inside while cold temperatures can corrode from the outside. Certain soil chemicals can also corrode the pipes underground.
Don’t do it Yourself
Unless you’re a licensed plumbing expert, you should never try to fix slab leaks yourself as it can be dangerous. You need the right tools and skills to properly repair the leak, so it’s important that you hire a professional for this type of job.
In more serious situations, improper installation and construction can lead to slab leaks. Some builders cut corners with their work, and homeowners end up having to pay for it later. If the plumbing was not installed correctly or the foundation was not laid properly, then you may have to deal with a slab leak in the future.
What Are The Causes of Slab Leaks?
There are several factors that can contribute to slab leaks, including corrosion of the pipes, weather conditions, or improper construction. Knowing what caused your slab leak can help you determine how best to tackle the repair process and save money in the long run.
Old Pipes
If your home has been around for some time, its pipes may be produced from copper or cast iron. PH changes in your water supply over time can cause these materials to rust, corrode and eventually develop cracks and leaks.
Incorrect Installation of Pipes
As mentioned earlier, the improper installation of plumbing pipes can also be the reason for slab leaks. When pipes are not fitted properly or to manufacturer specifications, it can lead to holes in the piping system that allows water to escape. That is why you should always use professionals that are licensed and insured for such installations.
Pressure from Soil or Construction Activity
The pressure of soil surrounding the pipes can cause slab leaks as well. This happens due to expansive soil shifts or when there is construction activity around the area like digging of foundations, planting trees, etc. The pressure from these activities can lead to cracks in the plumbing system, resulting in leaks.
Respond to a Slab Leak by Calling The Experts at Bienvenu Brothers
If a slab leak occurs, contact the Bienvenu Brothers at (504) 835-7783 and fix the leak before it gets out of hand. Otherwise, you could be dealing with a much bigger problem down the road. The Bienvenu Brothers specialize in slab leak repair and can help address your plumbing needs in no time. You’ll get fast and efficient service so that you don’t have to worry about the damage getting worse. Contact us today for more information!