Salt Lake City’s semi-arid climate is a regular reminder about water preservation and efficiency. The presence of a wide range of water resources, and years of water resource management have helped stabilize water, yet despite all these efforts, it is not strange to come across points of water loss. Worse still, some of those instances present challenges to homeowners and building occupants, and a slab leak is one of the most frustrating issues anyone can face.
What is a Slab Leak?
A slab leak is one of those disturbing leaks that are concealed from the eye. A slab leak forms within the concrete slab foundation of the building. Often, the source of the leak is the water line in the slab. Older piping systems are the most susceptible to this problem because of the age-related corrosion of standard metal pipes.
Reasons to be Wary of Slab Leaks
A leaky showerhead or faucet is nothing compared to a slab leak. The fact that this water stands for a long time before being detected presents the possibility of a mold problem, which often leads to respiratory issues for the building’s occupants. The affected area could also rot, making it a safety hazard for kids or elderly persons in your home.
Slab leaks also put the building in danger. When the concrete and steel in the foundation shifts owing to pressure, cracks may follow. Buildings built in the 1980s are especially susceptible as they have copper piping beneath. Unfortunately, repairing a slab leak for an older building can be extremely expensive, especially if you need to replace outdated components.
Look for These Signs
When your water tends to be on an upward trend, some questions emerge. If you have already ruled increased consumption, then there is probably a leak somewhere. Slab leak signs may be noticeable immediately or after some time. Apart from the sharp increase in water bills, other possible signs of a slab leak are sounds of moving water in the floor and warm sections on the floor. Perhaps the most telling signal is a significant reduction in water pressure.
What can you do?
If you are already in this mess, swift action can be valuable. Modern technology helps identify the exact location of the leak. Such solutions are important because they may minimize the scope of work. When in the hands of a skilled emergency plumber, electronic leak detection methods can be used on any type of foundation with an excellent degree of accuracy.
What is the risk level in Salt Lake City?
Some properties in Salt Lake City may attract slab leaks for a few reasons. If the building is located in clay, salty soil, its water pipes will be highly susceptible to corrosion. Expansion and contraction of the pipes form cracks eventually. In concrete slab foundations, the same mechanisms cause friction on the pipes. This results in leaks over time.
Experiencing a slab leak on your property might seem like a headache but if detected and repaired early, it shouldn’t pose much of a problem. It is highly recommended that you check your home’s foundation regularly in order to minimize any issues that may arise.