A slab leak is one of the most serious plumbing issues a homeowner can face. These leaks occur under the concrete foundation of your home, often going unnoticed until they cause significant damage. If left untreated, slab leaks can lead to foundation cracks, mold growth, and skyrocketing water bills.

At Plombier Candiac, we specialize in slab leak detection and repair, helping homeowners prevent costly structural damage. In this guide, we’ll show you how to detect a slab leak early, what causes it, and the best ways to fix it before it gets worse.

What Is a Slab Leak?

A slab leak occurs when a water or sewer line beneath your home’s concrete foundation develops a crack or hole. These leaks can be caused by:

✔️ Pipe corrosion due to old or low-quality piping
✔️ High water pressure that weakens pipes over time
✔️ Shifting foundation or soil movement
✔️ Poor installation of plumbing pipes
✔️ Abrasion from pipes rubbing against concrete

🚨 Slab leaks can be dangerous because they’re hidden beneath your home’s foundation, leading to costly damage if not repaired quickly.

How to Detect a Slab Leak

Since slab leaks occur beneath your home, they can be difficult to identify. However, there are several warning signs to watch for:

✅ 1. Unexplained High Water Bills

If your water bill has suddenly increased without a change in usage, it could indicate a hidden leak in your plumbing system.

✔️ Check your water meter – Turn off all water sources and see if the meter is still running. If it is, you likely have a leak.

✅ 2. Warm Spots on the Floor

If a hot water pipe is leaking, you may feel warm or hot spots on your floor. This is common in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.

✔️ Check for warm areas by walking barefoot on tile or hardwood floors.

✅ 3. Water Puddles or Damp Flooring

If you notice water pooling on your floors or carpets that feel constantly damp, it could be a sign of a slab leak.

✔️ Inspect flooring for warping, discoloration, or mold growth.

✅ 4. Cracks in Walls or Foundation

A slab leak can shift your foundation, leading to cracks in walls, ceilings, or floors.

✔️ Check for new cracks or gaps in your foundation, especially near doors and windows.

✅ 5. The Sound of Running Water

If you hear water running under the floor, even when no faucets are on, a slab leak could be the culprit.

✔️ Listen for faint dripping or hissing sounds beneath your home.

🚨 If you notice any of these warning signs, contact Plombier Candiac immediately for a professional slab leak inspection.

How to Fix a Slab Leak Before It Gets Worse

Once a slab leak is detected, it’s crucial to repair it quickly to avoid further damage. Here are the best methods for fixing a slab leak:

🔧 1. Epoxy Pipe Coating (For Small Leaks)

If the leak is small and the pipe is still in good condition, epoxy coating can seal the crack without excavation.

✔️ Best for: Minor leaks that don’t require pipe replacement.
✔️ Process: A plumber applies a durable epoxy sealant inside the pipe to stop the leak.

🔧 2. Pipe Rerouting (Bypassing the Damaged Section)

If a portion of the pipe is severely damaged, the best option may be rerouting the plumbing above ground.

✔️ Best for: Older homes with outdated pipes.
✔️ Process: The damaged section is cut off, and new pipes are installed above the slab to bypass the leak.

🔧 3. Trenchless Pipe Repair (Minimal Digging Required)

Trenchless pipe repair involves inserting a new pipe lining inside the existing pipe, sealing the leak without breaking up the concrete slab.

✔️ Best for: Homes where digging through the slab is not ideal.
✔️ Process: A new pipe liner is inserted and cured inside the existing pipe, reinforcing it from within.

🔧 4. Direct Access Repair (Excavation Required for Major Leaks)

For severe slab leaks, plumbers may need to cut through the concrete slab to replace the damaged pipe section.

✔️ Best for: Major leaks that cannot be repaired with epoxy or rerouting.
✔️ Process: The slab is opened, the broken pipe is replaced, and the foundation is restored.

🚨 This method is more invasive and requires professional expertise to ensure the foundation remains structurally sound.

How to Prevent Slab Leaks in the Future

Preventing slab leaks starts with regular maintenance and early detection. Here’s what you can do to protect your home:

✅ 1. Monitor Your Water Pressure

✔️ High water pressure can damage pipes over time.
✔️ Install a pressure regulator to keep pressure between 40-60 psi.

✅ 2. Schedule Annual Plumbing Inspections

✔️ A professional plumbing inspection can detect small leaks before they worsen.
✔️ Plombier Candiac offers slab leak detection services to catch problems early.

✅ 3. Use Corrosion-Resistant Pipes

✔️ If your home has old galvanized steel or copper pipes, consider replacing them with PEX piping, which is more flexible and corrosion-resistant.

✅ 4. Keep an Eye on Foundation Cracks

✔️ Small foundation cracks can worsen if water seeps in from a slab leak.
✔️ Seal any cracks and monitor for new damage.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

📞 Call a plumber immediately if you notice:
✔️ A sudden increase in your water bill.
✔️ Warm spots on your floors.
✔️ Visible water damage or mold growth.
✔️ Cracks forming in walls or foundation.
✔️ Sounds of running water beneath your floors.

🚨 Slab leaks can cause significant structural damage if left untreated. Contact Plombier Candiac today for expert slab leak detection and repair.

Final Thoughts

A slab leak is a serious plumbing issue that requires immediate attention. If ignored, it can lead to foundation damage, mold growth, and costly repairs. By knowing how to detect the early warning signs and taking preventative measures, you can protect your home from major water damage.

If you suspect a slab leak in your home, don’t wait until the damage worsens. Contact Plombier Cowansville for professional leak detection and repair services today! 🚰🏠🔧