Precautions to Take to Prevent Slab Leaks

Homes with slab foundations usually have water lines running under the slab and into the house. Sometimes, these lines can crack or break, causing water to come into the house or saturate the ground under the house.

In many cases, a slab leak requires expensive repairs and causes extensive property damage. If you can prevent a slab leak from happening, you can save a lot of money, time, and trouble.

Many people have never heard of a slab leak, so they can’t do anything to prevent one. Developing an awareness of this type of problem sets the stage for preventative action. This kind of leak usually results from a preventable underlying cause.

If you address the most likely causes of a slab leak, you can make sure you do what you can to keep your pipes intact. Taking the following precautions can prevent a slab leak in your Winchester home.

Monitor Water Pressure

The pressure inside water pipes can cause material fatigue that eventually results in a rupture. Also, many pipes have anti-corrosion coatings inside them that can wear away. Over time, corrosion occurs, wearing down the pipes, and causing leaks.

You can find out the appropriate water pressure for your home from either your home builder or a qualified plumber. In many cases, they can recommend a reasonable interval for having the water pressure in your home measured and adjusted.

Check Acidity

Water with improper pH characteristics can eat away at your pipes, eventually causing leaks. Although you might not have a direct way to change the pH of your water supply, you can periodically have the water in your home checked.

If your pH becomes a problem, your plumber can suggest options available to correct the pH. In some situations, you might need to contact your water company. Regardless, testing the acidity of your water can help you take steps to prevent problems.

Take it Easy on Drains

When you have a slow or clogged drain, you might react by using commercially available liquid drain openers. Although drain cleaners can solve the problem, they can hurt your pipes if used too often.

Recurring drain problems can indicate other problems, so contact your plumber for assistance, before you cause a slab leak by using too many chemicals.

Slab leaks can cause serious and expensive problems that Winchester homeowners often can avoid. Use these tips for preventative action, and consult with a plumber if you have any questions. With some caution and preventative measures, your plumbing will serve you well for a long time.

Don’t let a slab leak destroy your Winchester, VA home! Call Powells Plumbing at 540-665-8196 to get it fixed.