A slab leak occurs when a water pipe located beneath the concrete foundation of a home or commercial building develops a leak. Slab leaks can be caused by aging pipes, corrosion, shifting soil, poor installation, excessive water pressure, or abrasion from pipes rubbing against concrete. Because these leaks occur beneath the foundation, they often go unnoticed until they begin causing significant damage.
Common signs of a slab leak include:
- Unexplained increases in your water bill
- Warm or damp spots on the floor
- Cracks in flooring or walls
- The sound of running water when no fixtures are in use
- Mold or mildew odors
- Low water pressure
If left unrepaired, a slab leak can lead to foundation movement, flooring damage, mold growth, and costly structural repairs. Professional plumbers use electronic leak detection equipment to accurately locate the leak and recommend the most appropriate repair method, which may include spot repair, pipe rerouting, or whole-home repiping.
