Your home is not just the place where you lay your head at night. It probably is also your most expensive and valuable investment. Your home should also be a sanctuary. To keep it that way and in tip-top shape sometimes requires TLC. If your home’s foundation is concrete rather than a basement or crawlspace, slab leaks can occur. If you encounter a slab leak, a professional touch will likely be needed to address and fix it properly.
In this blog, Armstrong Plumbing, Air & Electric will be doing a deep dive into the world of slab leaks. We want our clients and others in our community to be informed and able to take decisive action should you ever need to. We will highlight the causes and explore the expert slab leak repair services to homeowners in the Lubbock, Texas area offered by professionally trained plumbers such as those at Armstrong.
What Are Slab Leaks?
Before we dig into the nitty-gritty details of what to do, let’s make sure we all understand what we mean by “slab leaks.” In simple terms, a slab leak occurs when water pipes underneath your home’s concrete foundation, also known as a “slab,” start to leak. These leaks may result in a variety of problems including water damage and high water bills. If left unattended to, they can result in the compromised structural integrity of your home. If the foundation on which your home is constructed fails, walls can become unstable, making living there unsafe for the occupants. You can see why detecting and fixing these leaks promptly is essential to prevent major damage to your property.
What Causes Slab Leaks?
Several factors can cause slab leaks. Understanding these can help you stay alert and take preventative measures. Here are some of the most common causes:
Soil Shifts:
Lubbock is known for its fluctuating weather conditions which sometimes causes soil to shift. This shifting can place extra pressure on the water pipes, causing them to crack or break.
Pipe Age & Material:
Over time, pipes can corrode or deteriorate, especially if they are made from materials that are prone to rusting or wear and tear. Older homes may be more susceptible to slab leaks for this reason.
Poor Installation:
Sometimes, slab leaks are a result of poor installation. If the plumbing system was not installed correctly, it could lead to leaks in the future.
Water Pressure & Temperature:
Extreme variations in water pressure and temperature can put undue strain on the pipes, causing them to crack or break over time.
How to Detect Leaks
Now that we know the causes, let’s see how you can detect slab leaks in your home. Here are some signs to watch out for:
- Unusually High Water Bills: If you notice a sudden spike in your water bill, it might be a sign of a slab leak.
- Wet Spots on the Floor: Finding wet spots or damp carpets can be an indicator of a leak beneath the slab.
- Sound of Running Water: If you hear running water even when all taps are off, it might be a sign of a leak.
- Decreased Water Pressure: A significant decrease in water pressure might indicate a leak somewhere in your plumbing system.
How to Fix Them
Fixing a slab leak is a job for the professionals at Armstrong Plumbing, Air & Electric. If you suspect a slab leak, that is the first step to take. You want a trained technician with experience. If you suspect something is wrong, better call Armstrong!
Here’s what the repair process generally involves:
Step 1: Leak Detection
An Armstrong plumber will use specialized equipment to locate the exact source of the leak without causing unnecessary damage to your home.
Step 2: Assessing the Damage
Once the leak is found, the plumber will assess the extent of the damage and suggest the best method to repair it.
Step 3: Slab Leak Repair
The slab leak repair process might involve one or more of the following methods:
- Spot Repair: The plumber digs down to the pipe at the point of the leak and repairs the damaged section.
- Re-piping: This is often the recommended solution for older plumbing systems. The plumber replaces the old, damaged pipes with new ones.
- Pipe Coating: If the pipe is damaged in multiple places, a plumber might suggest applying an epoxy coating inside the pipe to seal the leaks.
Step 4: Restoration
After the repair, the plumber will restore the dug-out area to its original state, making sure your home looks as good as new.
Expert Plumbing Help in Lubbock, Texas
Slab leaks might seem daunting, but with the right help, they can be managed effectively. Early detection and prompt repairs can save you a lot of trouble and money in the long run. Stay vigilant to the signs of slab leaks and don’t hesitate to contact Armstrong Plumbing, Air & Electric in the Lubbock, Texas area for repairs.
Protecting your home from slab leaks is a continuous process, and we are here to assist you every step of the way. With comprehensive home maintenance from Armstrong, including plumbing, electric and your home comfort systems, we can work together to ensure that your home remains safe, comfortable, and leak-free for years to come.
When you suspect something is wrong, it’s always better to call Armstrong!
