You should take slab leaks very seriously. It is important to immediately contact a Long Beach plumber if you notice any signs of a slab leak. If left unattended, they can cause damage that could cost thousands of dollars.
Causes Of Slab Leaks
Slab leaks can be caused by an assortment of things. These are not all clear signs and can also be caused by other plumbing problems. Water stains, for example, can be caused by water conditioning leaks or busted pipes, as well as other plumbing issues.
Long Beach plumbers can diagnose the true cause. These are the main causes of slab leaks.
- Friction: Although there aren’t many earthquakes in Long Beach, CA there may still be friction below the ground. Pipes can rub against rocks, debris, and each other as the earth shifts and tree roots grow. This can lead to potential leakage.
- Water pressure: Over time, high water pressure can cause leaks. This could be caused by friction, poor construction, or other reasons.
- Construction: It is not as simple as you might think. Even years later, it takes experience and a good understanding of the workings of a plumbing system.
Even little tiny errors can lead to big problems many years later.
How to Detect a Slab Leak
Even though slab leaks may not be as obvious as other plumbing issues, it is important to know what you should look for in order to quickly identify the problem.
Early detection can help keep repair costs down, and prevent larger problems from happening.
- Sound: Running water can be heard in places you don’t normally hear. This can be seen in walls or under the foundation.
- Cracks: These are the most obvious signs and you should call an experienced plumber immediately you notice cracks in the foundation. You can also do this outside. People mistake cracks for shifting ground beneath concrete. It’s possible that this is the case, but it’s better to be sure.
- Puddles: If there are unusual puddles around your house, or in the yard, it is a sign that slab leaks have to be fixed right away.
- Mold, mildew and stains: You may not see large cracks or puddles in some cases. If you see mold, mildew, or water stains in any area and cannot determine why, it is a sign that something is wrong. This could indicate bigger problems.