What Causes a Slab Leak in a Home?
Property owners never want to deal with a slab leak, as it is among the most frustrating and unpleasant.
Property owners never want to deal with a slab leak, as it is among the most frustrating and unpleasant. Furthermore, it is dangerous as it is more difficult to detect and access.
What is a slab leak?
The concrete foundation on which homes are built is known as a slab. A slab leak is a leak in the water or sewage pipes beneath the home’s concrete foundation. Quick action is warranted even for slab leaks that appear minor or insignificant initially. If left unattended, slab leaks can lead to extensive water damage, compromise the home’s structural integrity, and demand costly repairs. Therefore, homeowners should stay aware of the primary reasons for slab leaks to prevent severe damage.
Common causes of a slab leak in a home
Faulty installation
The type of materials used and their installation can result in slab leaks. For example, using inferior-quality pipes or installing them incorrectly when the home was built can lead to the pipes cracking or wearing out faster, leading to slab leaks. Some construction companies cut corners while constructing concrete foundations to save money. Poorly mixed concrete, improper compaction, or improper concrete curing can result in slab leaks and other issues.
Soil shift underneath the slab
One of the primary reasons for a slab leak is the shifting of the foundation soil on which the home is built. When the soil shifts, it puts pressure on the pipes. Outside pressure can also be due to an earthquake, soil erosion, or an underground stream. Vibrations created during an earthquake can loosen up the pipe joints, and ground movement can cause the pipes to crack or develop holes, leading to a slab leak.
Poor water quality
High and low water pH level is also one of the reasons for a slab leak. Excessively acidic, i.e., hard or highly alkaline, i.e., soft water, can rust, degrade, or crack the pipes, causing them to leak. In addition, the chlorine-like smell from the water or blue or green stains on the plumbing fixtures are signs of acidic water. Ignoring signs of improper water quality or chemistry can cause irreversible water damage.
Incorrect water pressure
High water pressure is damaging to the home pipes. The average water pressure for a home is between 40 and 80 psi. Use a water pressure gauge to measure the water pressure in the house. Water pressure over 80 can cause the underground pipes to become damaged and leak. Install a pressure-reducing valve to protect the water lines from leaks and prolong their lifespan.
Old and deteriorating pipes
Old homes have copper and Orangeburg sewer pipes, which makes them more vulnerable to slab leaks. Over time these pipes start to rust, leading to cracks and holes, which get bigger, causing severe damage. If the pipes are old, regular inspections and maintenance by a plumbing professional will keep them in top shape and can help detect slab leaks on time.
Abrasion
Another common cause of slab leaks is abrasion. Underground pipes, as they circulate water during regular use, rub against nearby pipes, the home’s concrete slab, rocks, gravel, and dirt. The friction can damage or wear out the pipe’s exterior over time, causing it to thin and spring a leak.
Call a professional plumber immediately for slab leak detection and repair if you suspect a slab leak.
911 Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing can service all commercial and residential HVAC and plumbing needs. Call 602-795-2900 today!