General Facts Concerning Slab Leaks

Foundation leaks, which are also known as slab leaks, have been a common issue for decades. The issue began in the 1980s when builders and contractors of properties, primarily those in the southwest portion of the United States, were constructing homes on top of slabs of concrete. Workers would pour the cement into a slab formation and before it could dry, install the soft copper piping within it.

This would eventually start problems that did not become obvious until time had passed. The copper that was placed in this cement was too weak. Once the cement dried, the pipes would begin to bend, nick, fold or kink, which only added to their original weakness. In time, a small leak would form and when left untreated, other large problems would arise.

Property owners who are concerned that they have this problem can search for common signs. If they are able to feel or see wet spots on the floor, this could be related to a leak issue, especially when the spots are warm. A sure indicator of any sort of leak is a sudden increase in the water bill.

The water leaks from the pressure caused by the outbound waterline. This means that the water runs out all day long and the water usage and bill rise. Owners might also hear the sound of running water in the property but not be able to identify where it is coming from because all of the fixtures are turned off.

The main cause for this is the damage of the copper piping that is inside the cement. The soft copper is what springs links that lead to these slab problems. This repair is common in older properties that were build on these slab foundations. Often the repairs are not easy or cheap.

Among the first and most crucial steps in these cases is to find the exact problem. This often involves hiring a company that offers leak detection services and has a good standing. They will utilize different high-tech equipment to pinpoint the exact area of problem. It is so important that the correct problem area is found because property owners do not want to have to dig in numerous places looking for the leak.

There are different repair techniques that can be done. Often they are not easy to do and require lots of money. Repipe, epoxy and jackhammer are commonly used approaches, with jackhammer being a preferred method for many. Professional companies will utilize a jackhammer to dig up the spot. From there, plumbers will go in and solder new piping where it is needed. Epoxy lining is used only after the inside of the pipe has been cleaned. It is then inserted to line the pipes and prevent leaking by sealing up holes. Repiping is installing an entirely new piping system. Costs for such repairs will differ depending on the option and the company doing the service.

Slab leaks are problems that arise in many older properties built on slabs of concrete. The repair work can be done in three key ways, each of which require professional services. Costs for the fixes will range, but if the issue is not addressed, other larger issues can develop.

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General Facts Concerning Slab Leaks