Slab Leak refers to a leak that actually occurs beneath the foundation of your house. In the case of most homes, there are copper water lines below the cement or concrete that serves as the base of your home. There is not much awareness of slab leaks, but they are actually a huge issue, and can easily be mistaken for a simple basement leak. However, there are some signs that can help you tell when you have a slab leak as opposed to a basement leak.

WATER BILLS

You probably want to spend as little time as possible thinking about your water bill, but it can actually be a great resource to help you detect slab leaks. If your water bill is unusually high, a slab leak could be the cause. A leak in these pipes can come in many different sizes, but regardless of what size some quantity of water will be flowing through it. This means that you are losing water 24/7, an issue that is bound to show up on your bill. If there is no other reason for the spike in cost, it is probably time to call a local plumber.

Watch and Listen for leaks

A strong sign that you have a leak in your pipes is the constant sound of running water. This may be a subtle noise, especially since you are accustomed to it, but try to take notice if the sound is constant. If there is water running and you are not using any water-based appliances, this can be a strong indicator of a leak.

If you think that you hear water running when everything is turned off in the house, check your water meter. There should be an indicator that spins when water is running. If it is spinning, then water is flowing somewhere, and it could be a slab leak.

WATER ON THE FLOOR

This one may seem obvious, but it is still worthwhile. If there is water seeping through your floor, you obviously have some kind of leak. However, it can be difficult to tell if it is a traditional basement leak or a slab leak. Here are a few indicators to watch out for.

• If the leak seems to be growing from the middle of the floor, rather than one of the edges or walls, it is more likely to be a slab leak. Basement leaks tend to result from cracks in the foundation, which tend to form at the edges rather than the center of the floor. A slab leak, in contrast, can occur anywhere along the pipe.
• If the water from the leak is warm, this can be an indicator of a slab leak. Often times, both cold and hot water pipes are running under your home. If the leak is in one of the hot water pipes, then the wet spot on the floor will be noticeably warmer. Naturally, this only indicates a leak in a hot water pipe, so if the water is cold it does not mean that it is not a slab leak. It could simply be a leak in a cold water pipe.

A noticeable leak combined with one of the other indicators can strengthen your case for a slab leak. For instance, if your water bill is high, go check your basement to see if there are any water spots on the floor.

If you suspect a slab leak contact a plumbing professional right away!! 

Water Damage In Your Home Or Business? Contact a SERVPRO of Oldham/Shelby County today to speak to a Mitigation Specialist. 502.241.6861

SERVPRO of Oldham/Shelby County also proudly serves Spencer, Henry and Trimble Counties.