What is a slab leak? A slab leak is an underground water line that has developed a crack or pin hole leak within the pipe. Slab Leak Detection is thr process by with which we find the leak.

What causes slab leaks? Most often a slab leak caused by improperly installed piping

What other causes are behind slab leaks?

• High water pressure can contribute to slab leaks by way of the undue stress "excessive" pressure placec on the water system
• Thermal Expansion causes many of slab leaks. Slab leaks tend to more often be on the hot water system side caused by the expansion/contraction of the pipes during the heating of water.
• Hard water and elevated ph levels also contribute to slab leaks. If you have experienced one or more slab leaks installing a water conditioning system may be your cure.
• Hot soil or contaminated soil can lead to pipe failure.

What are the warning signs of an underground slab leak?

• High water bills
• High gas bills
• Warm floors
• Musty/Mildew smells
• Warped wood floors or baseboards
• The constant sound of running water even with no water fixtures in use
• The water heater is constantly in heating mode

How can I determine if I have a leak?

• The simplest way is to mark and record your water meter and allow for 30 minutes or so to pass. If the dial moves and the reading increases YOU HAVE A LEAK
• Another way to verify a leak exists is by way of shutting off your water and allowing a few minutes to pass. If the water system charges back up when you turn the system back on CHANCES are you have a leak.

Are slab leaks and the resulting water damage covered under my Homeowner Insurance?

It is always best that you refer to your particular insurance policy and written coverage. However, the majority of insurance companies will not cover plumbing. They will cover the resulting water damage on the premise that the leak is a result of a sudden burst or break.

Some insurance carriers will cover the cost associated with locating, accessing and the put back of concrete involved in repairing the actual leak (they won't cover the cost associated with the actual pipe repair).

What is best? A direct repair of the slab leak via the concrete removal and repair, or a above ground pipe re-route?

It is always best to re-route or repipe the water system. If you have had one leak the chances of another leak occurring is high. By eliminating the underground piping you greatly reduce the chances of another flood to your home.

How can I protect my home from having a slab leak or plumbing problems in general?

• Always maintain your water pressure below 70 psi. A water pressure regulator will ensure that the pressure remains at or below 70 psi. However, pressure regulators due fail as well, as such, you should check or have your water pressure checked at least once a year.
• Have your water supply tested for high levels of hardness. If you live in an area with hard water you ought to consider the installation of a water conditioning system. Along with protecting your piping system "water conditioners" protect your complete plumbing system inlcluding faucets, fixtures, dishwashers, shower doors, and more...
• One of the most understood causes behind slab leaks is thermal expansion. Thermal Expansion occurs during the heating cycle of the tank type water heater. As the water heats "it expands" just like a tea kettle builds steam as its cooked: the water in your water heater does the same. The pressure builds up and places undue stress on your water system. The frequent expansion and contraction created during the heating cycle can lead to pipe movement and "ultimately" leaks. Installing a thermal expansion tank or some form of protective device - will eliminate this very misunderstood problem. 

For more information or questions concerning underground water slab leaks give us a call on our toll free number 1-855-896-3601 We are happy to help

By; Anthony Pouliot

Have a foul smell? We can find the source by way of our smoke testing service.

A smoke test forces non-toxic, artificially created smoke through waste and drain pipes under a slight pressure to find leaks.Plumes of smoke form where there are defects. This test can be performed when the plumbing is brand new, but more often it is used to find sewer gas leaks that may plague a building or an area. Any sign of smoke escaping can be considered a possible site for sewer gas to escape. Sewer gas typically has a rotten egg smell and can contain methane gas, which is explosive, or hydrogen sulfide gas, which is deadly.

Plumbing smoke tests are also used to find places where pipes will spill fluid,and to check sanitary sewer systems for places where ground water and storm runoff can enter. Smoke testing is particularly useful in places such as ventilated sanitary sewer systems, where completely sealing the system is not practical.

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