What Is a Slab Leak?

Many commercial and residential buildings include a concrete floor in the basement called a slab. In some structures, the copper piping for the house’s water system would run under or in the concrete. When the copper becomes worn or damaged during installation, it can form breaks and cracks called slab leaks. This situation may go unnoticed for a very long time depending on where it is located and how large the opening in the pipe is. Eventually it will become a serious issue that must be addressed or the building may become severely and/or structurally damaged from water.

Can a Slab Leak Occur If My Home Isn’t In a Region Prone to Freezing?

The contracting and expanding caused by natural temperature changes during each season can be the bane of your home’s plumbing. While this is a common cause of leaking water in other situations, it isn’t the only thing that can create a broken pipe in your slab foundation. Structures in any climate are at risk.

The Most Common Causes of Slab Leaks

There are a number of things that can cause a slab leak. Anyone who has seen waterfalls, canyons and other naturally occurring structures will know the power of moving water. If your galvanized or copper pipes are subjected to high water pressure, this can strip them of their protective coating. Once the coating is gone, there is nothing left to stop internal damage that will eventually form water leaks.

The chemical composition of your water can also weaken plumbing. Have your water checked to make sure that it doesn’t become a danger to the pipes in your home. A pH level under seven can indicate high acid content. This is commonly referred to as “soft water”. Eventually the acid will dissolve pipes.

If your home’s plumbing system utilizes pipes made of different metals, this can lead to electrolysis. When this situation occurs, the differing energy levels stored within each metal type react to create a metal current. This will form tiny pin sized openings in the pipe that will widen over time and become a bigger slab leak.

Are You Causing the Slab Leak?

Homeowners should always be aware of what they put down the drain. Harsh chemicals can damage pipes and form slab leaks. Allowing old pipes to remain in the system can also cause problems. Aged plumbing can rust which will impact the quality of your drinking water and cause damage. Let us provide your home with a water leak inspection before a cracked or burst pipe washes away thousands of dollars in property damage.