Slab leaks are the most dangerous type of plumbing problem in your home. They are also very difficult to detect. Slab leaks break through the concrete, which forms the foundation of your home. This is why they are dangerous.
Homeowners should be aware that slab leaks don’t just happen under shoddy construction; they can also occur due to undetected water problems. Every year, thousands of homeowners experience a slab leak for the first time. Sometimes it’s a slow drip from an unknown source, and other times it’s a sudden flash flood from a burst pipe under the floor.
How to Tell If You Have a Slab Leak
Yes, slab leaks are difficult to detect, but there are some signs you can be on the lookout for:
- Warped floors
- Mold
- Mildew smell
- Flooding in your yard
- Foundation damage
- Damp carpeting
When you notice any of these signs, call a plumber immediately. Otherwise, you could experience these dangers:
Negative Health Impact
When you’re inside your home, you want to be safe and secure. However, slab leaks can cause you to breathe in mold spores that can cause issues within the respiratory tract. In fact, the longer you breathe them in, the greater damage to the body.
If you notice mold in your home, have it checked by a plumber first. Remember, even if you don’t see mold, it can still impact your health because sometimes, it’s not too visible.
Unexplained wheezing, coughing, and sudden development or worsening of asthma may be due to the presence of mold in your home.
Home Damage
One of the reasons slab leaks are dangerous is because they can weaken the integrity of your home’s foundation. Your foundation is where your home sits on, which means an issue with it can cause significant problems. Keep in mind that even if you have sturdy materials, damage from slab leaks may still happen due to water pressure as it can force shifts in the foundation.
Usually, this begins with cracks, and when left unnoticed for too long, the foundation could collapse. This is more common if your home was built before 1990.
Negative Effect on Finances
Imagine if you catch the problem early on—you get to save yourself from many major inconveniences that will likely cost you a lot of money. That’s why it’s essential you have your home’s plumbing checked regularly. You should also be on the lookout for the signs we discussed above, especially if you suspect you have slab leaks.
On the other hand, if you don’t know anything about slab leaks, you could end up spending a lot of money.
It can be difficult to understand the dangers associated with slab leaks in your home. Many homeowners only discover the problem after mold has already developed. If you suspect you have a slab leak, it’s important to act quickly to avoid long-term damage.
Avoid Slab Leaks!
Do you suspect slab leaks in your home? Get an evaluation from a licensed plumber or contractor about slab leak issues. Doing so will help you avoid the dangers of slab leaks and save you a lot of money in the long run!
Candu Plumbing & Rooter is a reliable plumber that can help with slab leak issues in your home. Our professional team can save you a lot of trouble. Contact us today to schedule a service!