Slab Leak – 10 Signs You May Have One  

1. 1. Water bill has increased, one of the top indicators of a slab leak.
   2. Loss of water pressure
   3. Pets like cats and dogs seem to have found a new favorite spot to lay (it’s nice and warm when a hot line slab leak is present)
   4. You can hear running water or a hissing sound
   5. Laminate flooring beginning to peel or buckle / Tiles starting to crack
   6. A moldy or mildew smell
   7. The concrete floor appears wet for reasons unknown
   8. An area of your lawn is greener than the rest, near an exterior wall/driveway slab
   9. A slight increase in your electric or gas utility bill
   10. Your hot water supply doesn’t seem to last as long but usage has not changed much

#1 The Passing of Time
Most slab leaks happen over a length of time due to one or more of the following reasons
#2 Poor Construction Practices
Like anything else, “how” your home’s pipe system is put together is critical. The structural integrity of the pipe depends upon the materials used and the installer’s skill.  When pipe is installed, it should be free of dents.  Dents in a pipe will decrease the pipe’s ability to withstand the pressure from the dirt and home foundation that is laid on top of the pipe. If the pipe has a dent, after a while this weight (pressure) can cause a leak to develop or even just break the pipe altogether. Older homes in particular have this problem as many have cast iron pipe that has long since begun to corrode and weaken.
#3 Pressure
Soil erosion or underground water streams can cause the dirt under your home or building to shift or settle.  This can increase the pressure on the pipe and cause leaks and breakages.

If you suspect a slab leak the best course of action is to call Beach Plumbing. We can determine where the slab leak is and work with you on the best way to repair or replace the leaking water line. You can verify our license is active by clicking on the link above.

Waiting to have a slab leak identified and repaired can lead to more costly repairs.  Slab leaks in a home going un-repaired is like letting your car go without an oil change for months after it is due.  The longer you wait, the more damage may happen and it gets more and more expensive.

The area surrounding the slab leak can become water-damaged, causing mildew and mold.  Picture wet laminate flooring, baseboard trim, and drywall soaked in water for long periods of time. Now add the Arizona hot temperatures to that and you have costly repairs and possible health hazards.