While slab foundations offer many advantages, they also come with certain disadvantages, including slab leaks.
Unfortunately, slab leaks quickly spread, are hard to detect, and are not a do-it-yourself project. So, put your toolbelt down for this one and call residential leak detection services in Fort Lauderdale for quality repair. But when to reach out for help? Look for these warning indicators to deal with a slab leak head-on before it spirals out of control.
What is a Slab Leak?
A slab leak occurs when pipes beneath a concrete foundation develop cracks or leaks. This leakage often goes unnoticed by homeowners for extended periods. It causes water seepage beneath the foundation, causing severe harm to walls, hardwood flooring, carpets, drywall, and other house parts. Slab leakage can sometimes even cause structural collapses.
There are many causes of it, for example
- Shifting of soil due to incidents like earthquakes.
- Poorly installed pipes weakened over time.
- Corrosive effects of acidic water on pipes.
- Natural deterioration of old sewer pipes.
These causes can occur simultaneously, making it imperative to detect and address them swiftly from residential leak detection services in Fort Lauderdale to prevent extensive damage.
Warning Signs of a Slab Leak That Need Residential Leak Detection Services in Fort Lauder
If you suspect that your home’s slab foundation has leaked, here are a few things that might confirm it:
1. Ceiling Slab Getting Heavy
When a home’s foundation swells, it can cause an upward movement of the entire building, known as heaving. If this swelling occurs due to a leak beneath the foundation, it becomes a significant issue that requires expert intervention. A sudden shift in the foundation can result in cracks on the interior and exterior walls and the foundation itself. However, these cracks may also occur due to the natural settling of the house. That’s why it’s crucial to have someone knowledgeable enough to distinguish between these causes to assess the situation accurately.
2. Warm Spots on the Floor
A leak in the hot water line can make parts of the floor warmer than usual. You can notice it easily on floors with carpets or thin linoleum. Tiles or hardwood floors can make it harder to find these warm spots unless the leak is really bad.
A bad leak might make water get under the tiles, showing other signs of water damage. This warm spot is a clue that something might be wrong with the pipes under your floor and that you should call residential leak detection services in Fort Lauderdale.
3. Raised Dome in the Floor
Sometimes, if a leak keeps going for a long time, it can change the shape of your floor. It might look like a bump or a raised area. It is a sign that the water from the leak is getting severe.
This spot shows where the leak might be and indicates that your home foundation could be in serious trouble. So, don’t ignore this warning sign and call a professional before it spreads.
4. Low Water Pressure
When your home’s water pressure drops unexpectedly, it might hint at a leak beneath the foundation. Leaks can reduce water flow and pressure in faucets and showers. This change often indicates an underlying issue that needs attention.
Don’t dismiss low water pressure as a mere inconvenience, as it could signify a hidden leak causing damage below your home’s foundation. Promptly addressing this issue by calling residential leak detection services in Fort Lauderdale to prevent further harm and maintain your home’s structural integrity.
5. Lawn Growing Unevenly
Your yard can also give hints about leaks. If you see parts of your lawn growing differently, it might indicate trouble underground.
When there’s a leak, the extra water can change how plants grow. Some areas might look greener or grow faster, while others might struggle. Keep an eye out for these changes—they might mean there’s a leak causing uneven water distribution underground. If you spot this, immediately call residential leak detection services in Fort Lauderdale.
6. A Foul Odor from Walls or Floors
Stinky odors from water leaks often occur due to bacteria or mold. When water accumulates in hidden or confined spaces, such as under floors or behind walls, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and mold growth. As these microorganisms multiply, they release gases that produce unpleasant odors.
Stagnant water can also pick up debris, dirt, or organic matter and create a foul smell. If you notice this odor, it’s a sign that a pipe might be leaking and causing damage inside your walls or under your floors.
7. Hearing Water Running, Though No Taps Are On
Imagine hearing water sounds, but none of your taps are open. This could indicate that water is flowing where it shouldn’t be. If you hear water running but can’t find a reason, it might mean a hidden leak.
Sometimes, this sound might be subtle, so pay attention—it could be your house trying to tell you there’s a leaking issue needing fixing.
Wrap Up
The aftermath of a slab leak can be catastrophic, causing extensive damage to your home. Identifying these warning signs early on empowers homeowners to swiftly address the issue by timely calling in residential leak detection services in Fort Lauderdale. The professionals can save your home from costly and extensive damage. Don’t let a hidden leak undermine the very foundation of your haven—stay alert, stay protected!
