If you live in an older home, chances are you might have issues with slab leaks, particularly in the bathroom or laundry room. These can be difficult and expensive to repair, so it’s important to take steps to prevent them if possible.
Slab leaks occur when water penetrates the underside of your home’s concrete foundation, which can lead to costly repairs. However, here are 4 ways you can avoid these costly repairs at all.
1. Know the Warning Signs
If you suspect that your slab has a leak, there are some things you should do immediately. First, turn off the water supply on the street. Next, if you have an automatic backwater valve installed in your basement, make sure that they’re working correctly and haven’t been tampered with.
Finally, contact a professional who can determine where the leak is coming from and will do slab leak repair immediately. If you don’t know who to call, ask friends or neighbors for recommendations.
2. Check Your Water Bill
If you notice an increase in your water bill in the recent month, it could be because of slab leaks. The best way to check for slab leaks is by reviewing your water bills. If you see a consistent increase in water usage, there may be a leak under the slab that you need to call a plumber for.
Most slabs are between one and three inches thick, so any shift in your home’s foundation can create a leak under the slab. Be sure to keep an eye out for wet floors, walls, or smells coming from the kitchen sink or bathtub when you have a potential slab leak.
3. Check for Water Damage
If you suspect that you have a slab leak, it’s essential to find the source before the damage becomes too extensive. Check for signs of water damage, including mold on walls or ceilings, wet carpet or padding, and moldy stains around electrical sockets and light switches.
Sometimes, there are also some dark patches on ceiling tiles. Foul odors coming from under the house or porch may also be due to water damage. When you notice any of these symptoms, you should immediately call a professional plumber to assess the problem.
Before digging up your concrete, be sure to remove all furniture, flooring, and appliances from the area so they won’t get damaged by falling debris. If possible, arrange someone else to help with things like turning off gas lines or flipping off electric breakers.
4. Have Your Plumbing Inspected Regularly
It is important to have your plumbing inspected regularly, and not just during the winter months. One way of doing this is by having a licensed plumber come out every year for an annual inspection. They will check for leaks, clogs, and other problems that can lead to slab leaks if left unattended.
Be sure to follow all these tips to avoid any sudden problems with your plumbing system, especially slab leaks. It will not only save you from costly repairs but will also prevent major setbacks.
