Slab Leak Repair in Fort Wayne, Indiana
Many Fort Wayne commercial buildings and homes are built on concrete slabs with plumbing under the slab. That plumbing can develop leaks over time. In fact, it is one of the most common plumbing problems. The issue can be complex and frustrating to repair because the heavy concrete slab covers the plumbing. It is possible to fix these problems, but it is a challenging project that takes skill and experience.
The key to repairing slab leaks is early detection. Well-trained specialists can repair damages that have occurred and prevent further destruction. Home and commercial building owners need to recognize signs of slab leaks to know when to call for professional help. Below are some common indicators that point to slab leaks as well as their causes.
Hot Spots on the Floor
A “hot spot” that appears on floors is often one of the first issues that alert building owners to the presence of a problem. When a warm area suddenly appears on flooring, it may point to a broken hot water line beneath the slab. It is important to clarify that a warm area on floors only appears when a hot water line has been damaged. But, there can still be an issue even if no hot spots appear, so property owners who suspect a leak need to look for other signs of problems.
Water Appearing from the Ground or Slab
Any time a noticeable leak appears in a building, it points to an escalating slab leak problem. Once the issue gets to this point, the situation is critical, and immediate repairs are essential. When pools of water or puddles appear, it means that enough water is coming from pipes to seep through the floor. Floors that always feel wet, even when no one has recently showered, are strong indicators of a slab leak.
Backups or Stoppages in Showers, Tubs, and Toilets
Poorly functioning showers, tubs, and toilets often indicate that a wastewater line is damaged. The best way to figure out the leak’s location is to determine which fixtures are backing up. Once the area has been narrowed down, owners can look for other signs that indicate a slab leak. However, there are many reasons that bathroom fixtures develop problems, so the situation is not always a sign of a slab leak. It is important to investigate every reason that tubs, showers, and toilets might be malfunctioning.
The Foundation Has Moved or Cracked
Water is one of nature’s most powerful elements, and it can affect a home foundation’s integrity and lead to cracks. Foundation issues often show up as cracks in home walls and flooring. When a homeowner notices cracks and other indicators that a foundation may have shifted, it could signal the presence of a slab leak. Property owners should be aware that slab leak repairs are generally expensive, so problems must be handled as soon as possible.
Foul Odors
In advanced stages, water damage often leads to mold and mildew growth. The problem occurs when water from a slab leak saturates the wood, turning building materials into the perfect breeding ground for growth. The result can be unpleasant odors that spread through homes. In fact, it is common for homeowners to smell unpleasant odors before they see evidence of mold or mildew. It is critical to be aware of this issue and schedule a professional inspection since an issue can escalate rapidly and lead to extensive damage.
Common Slab Leak Causes
- Pre-Installation Damage or Poor Installation
It is common for some materials to get roughed up during home construction, which is not usually an issue. But that does necessarily apply to pipes. Installing damaged pipes can eventually cause problems, including leaks. Improperly installed pipes can lead to serious issues once a slab and an entire house sit on top of them.
- Abrasion
It is normal for pipes to expand and contract as water travels through them. But, depending on home construction methods, this could lead to problems. When pipes are installed in areas that expose them to gravel, concrete, and other pipes, materials can rub against them. If there isn’t enough room for expansion, pipes will develop areas of wear.
- Corrosion
While it is natural for underground pipes to contact soil, the situation can lead to corrosion. The issue occurs most often when builders use copper pipes.
Expert Repairs Are Essential
Anytime a homeowner suspects they may have a slab leak, it is essential to contact plumbing professionals immediately. It can be difficult for property owners to recognize signs of slab leaks, but Summers Heating & Cooling experts are well-acquainted with the issue and can make repairs that prevent further damage. Well-trained, experienced plumbers will handle the problem quickly and efficiently.
