When you have pipes that run under concrete slab foundation, you need to know how to identify leaking pipes and potential hot spots in a timely fashion. Identifying slab leaks quickly allows them to be repaired before any lasting damage can be done to the structure.

Detecting Water Leaks Under Slabs Foundation

There are quite a few ways to detect leaking pipes that occur under slab foundation. The most common include:

• Higher than normal water bills
• High meter readings
• Hot spots in the concrete (normally from hot water leaks)
• Hearing water flowing but the faucets are turned off
• Moisture and areas of mildew under carpet and linoleum
• Cracks that start small and begin to rapidly spread outward

If you know your home, you’ll be able to detect subtle differences in the concrete slabs rather easily. Don’t discount the changes that you see. Instead, call a professional and have the area carefully examined.

Making the Needed Repairs

It’s important to make the necessary repairs as soon as the leak is discovered to prevent the damage from spreading. The following tips will help:

• Look at your blueprints to find out exactly where your water pipes are located
• Have the water company perform a pressure test
• If possible, isolate the damage and make spot repairs
• Spot repairs can be made by using epoxy coating to thoroughly seal the pipe
• If spot repairs aren’t possible, reroute the piping, making it more accessible in case another leak occurs in the future

While the perfect remedy would be a spot repair, there are times when that just isn’t possible. If that’s the case, redirecting the water pipes around the concrete slab may be your best bet for making long lasting repairs.

If you live in the Santa Ana, California area, you need to call a professional to help find the right solution for your home. Professional plumbers have the tools needed to test your water lines, find the leak, and make the necessary repairs. Don’t take chances when it comes to protecting your home. Call a professional today.