Homes with slab foundations have different considerations than those on a basement or crawlspace. Neither is specifically better or worse, but they do have different needs and requirements throughout the course of their lifetime. So if you have a home with a slab foundation, how can you tell if you’re experiencing a leak?
In most cases, a leak of this magnitude will be coming from inside the home. The potential cause will often be your hot water heater or plumbing lines. This is why it’s so important to recognize a leak in your slap and have the issue repaired as quickly as possible to avoid costly repairs and major construction.
- Pooling water.
Water always finds a way, so you can follow a leak to its most obvious source. If you see water pooling near the edges of your foundation or outside the home when it’s not expected, it’s time to call in a professional to take a closer look.
- Damp carpet or damaged hardwoods.
Unless you’re playing with a kiddie pool in your living room, you shouldn’t have damp carpet on your slab foundation. If you do, or you have buckling or cracking hard woods, time for a second opinion.
- Detectable mold or mildew.
As soon as mold or mildew take hold in your home, it is already a major cause for concern. If you see it, certainly call in a professional. But keep in mind that your first sign might be the musty smell.
- Cracks in walls or trim.
Are you noticing cracks in your drywall or plaster? Or seeing damage issues with your trim or baseboards. This isn’t normal for a home on a slab, so call someone to take another look.
- Hot spots on your floor.
Sometimes visible water isn’t going to be your first indicator. A slab foundation shouldn’t be changing temperature, so this might be an indicator of a leak specifically from your hot water heater.
- Increased water bills.
In fact, another indicator that you might have a leak in your slab is a sudden spike in your water bills. If you or your family have not increased your water usage significantly, this is likely a major plumbing issue.
- Water heater always running.
Likewise, if you notice that your water heater is constantly running, it may also indicate a link. They’re not smart devices so if there is water leaking, the hot water heater will continue to run to compensate.
- Decreased water pressure.
You may also notice this in decreased water pressure at your faucets or in your shower. Don’t take these plumbing signs lightly as a leak in your slab foundation will only increase in cost if it gets worse.
Are you concerned about a leak in your slab foundation? Contact Simpson Plumbing today.
