How Common Are Slab Leaks?

Slab leaks are a serious issue that can lead to significant damage if not detected and addressed early. They occur when the plumbing pipes beneath your home’s concrete foundation begin to leak, allowing water to seep into areas where it shouldn’t be. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how common slab leaks are, the signs you should look out for, and how to address slab leaks if they occur.

What is a Slab Leak?

A slab leak occurs when water pipes beneath your home’s concrete foundation crack or break, allowing water to leak into the foundation. These leaks can develop in both hot and cold water lines, and they are often difficult to detect since they occur beneath the slab. If left untreated, a slab leak can cause damage to your foundation, floors, and walls, and even lead to bacterial growth.

How Common Are Slab Leaks?

In areas like Natchitoches, Provencal, and Many, slab leaks are not uncommon, especially in homes with older plumbing systems or built on expansive soil. The clay-rich soil in Louisiana can shift with changes in moisture, putting stress on pipes under your home’s foundation and increasing the risk of leaks. Homes with older plumbing materials, such as corroded copper pipes, are also more prone to developing slab leaks over time.

While slab leaks are not an everyday occurrence, they happen often enough that homeowners should be vigilant in looking for signs of trouble, especially if their home is over 20 years old.

Signs of a Slab Leak

Detecting a slab leak early is essential to minimizing the damage to your home. Here are a few signs that could indicate a slab leak:

1. Increased Water Bills If your water bill has unexpectedly increased without a noticeable change in your water usage, it could indicate a hidden leak beneath your home’s foundation.
2. Warm or Wet Spots on Floors Warm or damp areas on your floors, especially in rooms where no plumbing fixtures are present, could signal a slab leak, particularly if the hot water lines are involved.
3. Cracks in Floors or Walls Shifting foundations caused by leaking water can lead to cracks in your walls or flooring. If you notice new or growing cracks, it may be time to investigate further.
4. Hearing Running Water If you hear the sound of running water even when all faucets are turned off, this could indicate that water is leaking beneath the foundation.
5. Low Water Pressure If your home’s water pressure suddenly drops, it may be a sign that water is leaking out of the pipes before it reaches your fixtures.

What Causes Slab Leaks?

There are several reasons why slab leaks develop:

• Shifting Soil: The expansive clay soil in Natchitoches and the surrounding areas can expand and contract with changes in moisture, putting stress on underground pipes and leading to cracks and leaks.
• Corroded Pipes: Over time, pipes made of materials like copper can corrode, leading to leaks beneath the foundation.
• Improper Installation: In some cases, pipes that were not installed correctly may develop leaks sooner than expected due to improper alignment or fittings.
• High Water Pressure: Excessively high water pressure can put strain on your home’s plumbing system, increasing the risk of a slab leak.

Addressing Slab Leaks

If you suspect a slab leak in your home, it’s important to take action quickly to prevent further damage. AxsomAir Cooling, Heating, Electrical & Plumbing has extensive experience in detecting and repairing slab leaks. Our advanced leak detection technology allows us to accurately locate the source of the problem without causing unnecessary damage to your home. Once the leak is identified, we can recommend the best solution, whether it involves repairing the damaged section of pipe or rerouting the plumbing to prevent future leaks.

Preventing Slab Leaks

While not all slab leaks can be prevented, there are some steps you can take to reduce the risk:

• Routine Plumbing Inspections: Regular plumbing inspections can help catch small issues before they become major problems. This is especially important in older homes.
• Water Pressure Regulation: Installing a pressure regulator can help maintain safe water pressure levels throughout your home, reducing strain on your pipes.
• Proper Drainage: Ensuring that your property has adequate drainage around the foundation can help reduce the risk of soil shifting and damaging your pipes.

AxsomAir’s Ironclad Guarantees

At AxsomAir, we stand behind the quality of our work. With our Ironclad Guarantees, you can rest assured that your home is in good hands. Our guarantees include:

• No Lemon Guarantee: If a major component of your system fails within the first 10 years, we’ll replace the entire system at no additional cost to you.
• 100% Satisfaction Guarantee: We’re committed to your satisfaction. If you’re not completely happy with the service we provide, we’ll make it right.

These guarantees give you peace of mind, knowing that you’re receiving the highest level of service and protection.

About AxsomAir Cooling, Heating, Electrical & Plumbing

AxsomAir Cooling, Heating, Electrical & Plumbing is proud to serve Natchitoches, Provencal, Converse, Many, and the surrounding areas. With years of experience, we specialize in a wide range of home services, including slab leak detection and repair, HVAC maintenance, electrical services, and more. Our team is dedicated to providing reliable, professional service, and we’re here to help keep your home safe and comfortable.

Suspect a Slab Leak? Contact AxsomAir Today!

If you suspect a slab leak in your home, don’t wait until the problem gets worse. Contact AxsomAir Cooling, Heating, Electrical & Plumbing today at (318) 217-2313 or schedule an appointment online. Our experts are ready to help protect your home and restore your peace of mind.