5 Signs Of A Slab Foundation Leak

For homes with a slab foundation, utilities like the water main line run through the slab. If a leak occurs where the line passes through the slab, you may be unaware of it if you aren't clued into the signs of such a problem. 

1. Water Sounds

Turn off all fixtures that use water in your home, such as faucets and the refrigerator ice maker. Then listen closely on the ground floor for the sound of any running water. Slab leaks most often originate from a water line leak where pipes run through or beneath the slab. If the line leaks, water will continue to run even when there are no sinks or appliances in use. 

2. Damaged Flooring

The moisture from a slab leak must go somewhere, and often that somewhere is into the flooring that's installed over the slab. Carpet and wood floors can feel damp or develop water stains, while linoleum may begin to peel and the grout around tiles may start to crumble. If there appears to be water damage on the floors, then you must rule out the chances of a slab leak. 

3. Pressure Issues

If a faucet in your home suddenly develops low water pressure, then the culprit could be a slab leak. Generally, if only a single water supply point is affected by low pressure, then the issue is with the faucet or appliance, or with the local water line that feeds the fixture. When all fixtures are affected by low water pressure, the problem is likely your water main leaking. Locating and repairing the leak fixes the problem.

4. Mold Problems

Water leaking in the slab will create high moisture conditions that are beneficial to unwanted mold growth. Carpets can develop a musty odor from the mold and mildew, while visible mold may also be present on the carpet and other flooring materials. Moisture can leach from the slab and flooring into the baseboards and walls, further fueling mold growth on the drywall and trim.

5. High Bills

Most slab leaks are in the water main line, which means the water continues to leak even if there are no fixtures in use. The result is a higher-than-normal water bill due to increased usage. If your bills have been higher than usual, it is a wise idea to look for a leak. You can check for a possible leak by turning off all water using appliances and fixtures. Then check your meter to see if water is still being used. If so, then there may be a leak. 

Contact a residential slab leak detection service if any of these signs are a concern in your home. 

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