Your Ultimate Resource: Catching a Slab Leak Early is Critical

Slab leak series: Part 1 of 2

What is it and what are the first signs?

Home foundations of all kinds are bound to have a host of issues unique to each type. The surrounding land will aid in those differences as well. Stability and necessity are the reasons why regional construction standards exist. Most homes in

California are built on concrete slab foundations which in nature are designed specifically for stability but also for regions that are not prone to heavy amounts of flooding.

A slab leak on the other hand can cause substantial issues to your home's concrete foundation and it is not an entirely uncommon occurrence either. Given the nature of the problems they can cause, it is important for every homeowner to know what a slab leak is and how to identify the first signs of one. Early detection is key and having the right resources and solutions will save you considerable time, money and patience in the long run.

So what is a slab leak? A slab leak is simply a leak in the water lines that run underneath the concrete slab of your home. These types of leaks are usually a sign of pipe corrosion that has been lingering and expanding over time. There are two standard types; drainage side and pressure side and neither one is better than the other. These leaks can go undetected for quite some time and have the ability to wreak havoc on the foundation of your home. Residual standing moisture can begin to corrode your home in less than 24 hours let alone days, weeks or months.

It is not unusual for slab leaks to go undetected for quite some time because they are not clearly visible. Therefore the ability to recognize one is crucial. Here are some easily identifiable signs of a slab leak:

• Moisture or mildew under the carpet
• Damp or warm spots on the floor
• Cracks in your baseboards or leading up the walls
• Standing water around the outer perimeter of your home
• Issues with water pressure being very low

Most often the signs are there even if the immediate visual recognition of the leak is not. If suddenly you experience any one or all of the about signs it is time to call for help. The faster you act on this problem the faster the ability to fix it happens. A slab leak is nothing to take lightly and must be addressed at first sign. Trusted and reliable resources are crucial at this time.