What a slab leak is
In many slab-on-grade homes, water lines run beneath or inside the concrete. Corrosion, abrasion against the concrete, shifting soil or poor original joints can let one of those lines leak where it cannot be seen.
Signs to look for
- A warm or hot patch on a tile or concrete floor, from a leaking hot-water line
- The sound of running water under the floor when nothing is on
- Damp carpet, lifting floorboards or cracked tile without an obvious cause
- A water heater that runs more than it used to
- A higher water bill and a meter that moves with the water off
Repair options
Once the leak is located, it can be repaired through the slab at that spot, or the affected line can be rerouted through walls or the attic so it no longer runs under the foundation. Which makes sense depends on the pipe’s condition and how many leaks it has had.
When professional help makes sense
As soon as you suspect one. Water under a foundation can undermine the soil and damage flooring, and pinpoint leak detection keeps the repair to one small opening rather than a search.