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How Common Are Slab Leaks?

October 8, 2024 | Blog

Slab leaks are a hidden issue that can lead to significant damage if not caught early. These leaks occur when the plumbing pipes beneath your home’s concrete foundation develop cracks or breaks, allowing water to seep through. While slab leaks are not an everyday occurrence, they are more common than many homeowners realize, especially in areas with older homes. In this blog post, we’ll explore how common slab leaks are, what signs to watch for, and the best course of action if you suspect a slab leak in your home.

What is a Slab Leak?

A slab leak occurs when a water line running beneath your home’s foundation begins to leak. These leaks can happen in both the hot and cold water pipes, making them difficult to detect since they’re hidden beneath the concrete. While slab leaks can cause severe damage over time, catching them early can save you from major repairs and structural problems.

How Common Are Slab Leaks?

In areas like Dallas, Lakewood, Garland, and Addison, slab leaks can be fairly common, particularly in older homes. Texas is known for its expansive clay soil, which can shift with changes in moisture content, putting stress on underground pipes. Homes built on this type of soil are at a higher risk for foundation movement, which can lead to pipe damage and eventually, a slab leak.

Slab leaks are also more common in homes with older plumbing systems. If your home is over 30 years old, the likelihood of a slab leak increases, especially if copper pipes were used in the original plumbing installation. Over time, these pipes can corrode, crack, or break due to age, soil pressure, or even improper installation.

Signs of a Slab Leak

Slab leaks can be difficult to detect in the early stages, but there are a few key signs you should look out for:

  1. Higher Water Bills If your water bill has increased without a corresponding rise in water usage, it may be due to a hidden leak beneath your home’s foundation.
  2. Warm or Wet Spots on Floors If you feel warm or damp spots on your flooring, particularly in areas where there are no plumbing fixtures, it could be a sign of a slab leak, especially from the hot water lines.
  3. Cracks in Walls or Flooring A shifting foundation caused by water leakage can create cracks in your walls or flooring. New or widening cracks may indicate a slab leak.
  4. Sound of Running Water If you hear the sound of running water when all the faucets are turned off, it may be due to water leaking beneath your slab.
  5. Decreased Water Pressure If your home’s water pressure has suddenly dropped, it could be a sign of a slab leak, as water is escaping from the pipe before it reaches your taps.

What Causes Slab Leaks?

Several factors can lead to slab leaks:

  • Soil Shifts: In Texas, the expansive clay soil can expand and contract with moisture changes, putting pressure on your home’s foundation and the pipes beneath it.
  • Pipe Corrosion: Over time, pipes can corrode, especially if they’re made of copper. Corrosion can weaken the pipes, making them more susceptible to leaks.
  • Poor Installation: In some cases, pipes may not have been installed properly, which can lead to early failure or leaks under your home’s foundation.

Addressing a Slab Leak

If you suspect a slab leak in your home, it’s important to act quickly to prevent extensive damage. At Public Service Plumbers, our experienced team uses advanced leak detection technology to locate the source of the leak without causing unnecessary disruption to your home. Once the leak is identified, we’ll provide you with options to repair the pipe, whether that involves fixing the damaged section or rerouting the pipe to prevent future issues.

Preventing Slab Leaks

While some slab leaks can’t be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

  • Routine Plumbing Inspections: Regular plumbing inspections can help identify potential issues before they become major problems. This is especially important in older homes.
  • Water Pressure Regulation: High water pressure can put additional strain on your pipes. Installing a pressure regulator can help maintain safe water pressure levels throughout your home.
  • Proper Drainage: Ensure your home has adequate drainage around the foundation to prevent soil from expanding and contracting due to moisture buildup.

Public Service Plumbers’ Quality Guarantee

When you choose Public Service Plumbers to address your slab leak, you can feel confident knowing that we stand behind the quality of our work. We are committed to delivering quality service and providing you with reliable solutions. Our guarantees include:

  • Satisfaction Guarantee: We are dedicated to ensuring that you’re completely satisfied with our service. If you’re not happy, we’ll make it right.
  • Upfront Pricing: With us, there are no surprises. We provide honest, upfront pricing so you know exactly what to expect before we begin work.

About Public Service Plumbers

Public Service Plumbers is a trusted plumbing contractor located in Dallas, TX. We proudly serve Dallas, Lakewood, Garland, Addison, Plano, Highland Park, and the surrounding areas. Our team is experienced in a wide range of plumbing services, including slab leak detection, water heater repairs, and general plumbing maintenance. With decades of experience and a commitment to excellence, Public Service Plumbers is the go-to choice for homeowners throughout the Dallas area.

Suspect a Slab Leak? Contact Public Service Plumbers Today!

If you think you might have a slab leak in your home, don’t wait for it to get worse. Contact Public Service Plumbers at (214) 612-7292 or schedule an inspection online today. Our team is ready to provide fast, reliable solutions to protect your home and restore your peace of mind.

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