Warning Signs of a Slab Leak - Recognize Early to Avoid Damage

Slab leaks pose a huge risk to the safety of your home. Slab leaks are not only hazardous for your home but if and when left unchecked can end up being costly. This is because they tend to worsen over time. Immediate diagnosis is, in many regards, critical for the safety of your home and the safety of your family.

That said, you need experienced professionals with an intricate understanding of slab leaks to help you diagnose this kind of leak. However, if you find damp spots, if you can hear running water under certain parts of the floor, or if you get an unexplained spike in the water bill, you definitely should consider calling in professional plumbers.

What Is A Slab Leak It?

There are many different causes of slab leaks. The significant ground movement influenced by heavy rainfall is a common cause for slab leaks. During heavy rainfall, the ground under your home tends to soak up water, causing the soil to expand. However, once it dries, the soil will shrink. Since concrete is not breathable and flexible, the repeated expansion and contraction causes the formation of cracks and breaks, resulting in slab leaks.

Indoor causes can also result in slab leaks. For instance, leaks in the bathrooms, cooking, and clothes drying can cause slab leaks.

Why You Should Care

Initially, the problems caused by a slab leak are only minor and easy to mitigate. However, over time, slab leaks will result in runaway problems that are not only difficult to repair but also very costly. However, the biggest issue of concern with a slab leak is the safety of the occupants.

Typically, the very first sign of a slab leak is an increase in your monthly water bills. In the next few months, you will notice an increase in utility costs. The increase in humidity in the indoor air will demand more from your HVAC. Humidity has a huge influence on both the heating and cooling of indoor spaces.

The continued leaks will give rise to perfect conditions for mold and mildew to sprout and grow. At this point, you will be facing breathing issues and odor problems. If the leaks remain unchecked and unrepaired, the leaking water will deteriorate soil quality, compromising your foundation. This exposes you to extensive and expensive repairs.

Top 7 Warning Signs of a Slab Leak - Protect Your Home

1. Unexpected Increase in Water Bills: One of the warning signs of a slab leak is a sudden, unexplained rise in your water costs.
2. Sounds of Running Water: Hearing running water when all taps are off can be a critical warning sign of a slab leak.
3. Moisture or Mildew Under Carpets: Moisture or a musty odor under carpets often acts as a warning sign of a slab leak.
4. Cracks in Walls or Flooring: Noticeable cracks in the structure of your home can be warning signs of a slab leak affecting the foundation.
5. Pools of Water or Wet Flooring: Unaccounted pools of water or consistently wet floors are important warning signs of a slab leak.
6. Hot Spots on Your Floor: Warm areas on your floor without any apparent source are significant warning signs of a slab leak.
7. Low Water Pressure: A decrease in water pressure throughout your house can indicate a serious issue, including being a warning sign of a slab leak.

Calling A Professional

In Suffolk County, these types of plumbing issues can end up very costly if left untreated. If you suspect that there may be a slab leak in your home, call a plumber immediately.  VP Plumbing & Heating is centrally located in Mount Sinai, NY and offers 24/7 Emergency Plumbing Services and plumbing leak detection services Catching it early on, can save your money and keep your family safe. If you think you may have a slab leak, give us a call at 516-659-3368 and let's see how we can help you.