Slab Leaks
What is a Slab Leak?
Slab leaks occur when a water pipe under the concrete foundation of your home, also known as the slab, develops a leak. These leaks can be particularly troublesome due to their location and the potential damage they can cause, including water waste, increased utility bills, and structural damage to your home.
Common Causes of Slab Leaks
Pipe Corrosion
Over time, pipes may corrode, especially in areas with high water acidity or low pH levels.
Abrasion
Pipes can wear down due to constant contact with concrete, gravel, or other pipes.
Pressure
High water pressure or external pressure from soil shifts and earthquakes can cause pipes to crack.
How is Slab Leak Detection Done?
At Brower Plumbing & Rooter, we use advanced methods and technology to detect slab leaks:
Electronic Leak Detection
Specialized equipment is used to detect the electromagnetic signals from your plumbing, pinpointing the leak’s location.
Acoustic Listening Devices
These tools amplify the sound of water escaping the pipe, helping our technicians locate the leak.
Infrared Cameras
Thermal imaging can detect temperature variations in the slab, indicating the presence of a leak.
Our non-invasive detection methods ensure accurate results with minimal disruption to your property.
How Professional Plumbers May Fix a Slab Leak
Once a slab leak is detected, our experienced plumbers at Brower Plumbing & Rooter may employ one of several methods to fix it:
Direct Access Repair
This involves opening the slab at the leak point and repairing the damaged pipe. It’s a straightforward but invasive method.
Epoxy Pipe Coating
For systems with multiple leaks, an epoxy coating can be applied inside the pipes to seal leaks without extensive excavation.
Pipe Rerouting
In cases where the leak is inaccessible or the damage is extensive, we may reroute the pipe above ground or in the walls to avoid future slab leaks.
Trenchless Pipe Repair
This is a less invasive method that involves creating small access points to repair the pipe without extensive slab disruption.