Slab Leak Detection For Leaks Buried Beneath Concrete and Paving

The signs of a slab leak are not always obvious, but symptoms can include:

1. Unexplained internal water damage, including mould and mildew growth
2. High water bills, especially an unexplained increase
3. Warm patches on a concrete floor indicate an underfloor heating leak
4. A decrease in mains water pressure
5. The sound of running water when no appliances are being used
6. Cracks in concrete slab floors or walls from soil expansion or erosion
7. Internal wet patches as water seeps upwards from the leak
8. External pooling or water, especially during dry weather conditions

There are several reasons why slab leaks occur:

1. Pipe materials: Many older homes have cast-iron pipes. Unprotected, they can rust over time due to the presence of minerals and water in the soil. Hot water lines made from copper can also corrode over time, allowing for leaks to occur.
2. Movement of soil: Some soils expand when wet and shrink when dry. This puts stress on pipes that can eventually lead to them fracturing.
3. Temperature changes: The pipes themselves can also expand and contract in response to shifting temperatures, resulting in cracks and leaks.
4. Poor installation: If pipes haven’t been fitted correctly or are not adequately supported, leaks are likely to occur eventually.
5. Accidental damage: Groundwork or digging can damage pipes. Even if they are not broken, any weak spots will result in leaks over time.
6. Electrolysis: When different metals are in contact (such as copper pipes and steel rebar in concrete), it can occur, increasing the likelihood of corrosion.
7. High water pressure: Changes in water pressure can cause stress on pipes over time, eventually leading to rupture. Water supply companies have to increase pressure levels as demand increases from the development of new properties.

The impact of ignoring a slab leak depends on its location and severity. For example, if there’s a serious rupture in a mains water communication pipe, large amounts of water could be escaping every hour. In addition to the cost of a water meter constantly spinning, water will also erode the soil, which could result in subsidence issues. If an insurer is aware that the problem was ignored, they may refuse to pay the claim.

More minor leaks beneath a property can cause damage in other ways if left unresolved. Brickwork, mortar, and concrete can weaken if left permanently saturated. Timbers that are exposed to moisture will rot and weaken. Mould will thrive in these damp conditions, and this could have health consequences for people living in the property.

Damage to flooring, plasterboard and furniture can also occur. Excess moisture can also damage fixed-wire electrical installations, posing risks of electric shock and fire. Ignoring a leak is encouraging it to get worse, and can lead to a complete failure of a plumbing or heating system. The market value of a property will be negatively affected by a leak or damp conditions.