A slab leak is a break in a water line running beneath the concrete foundation. It is invisible, often slow, and capable of causing real damage to flooring and the foundation itself. Finding it precisely means the repair can be targeted to a small spot rather than opening long trenches through the floor.
The causeWhy it happens
Water lines under a slab sit in soil that moves, against concrete that can abrade them, and carry water that slowly works on copper from the inside. Over years, pinholes form, joints weaken, and pipes rub through where they meet rebar or gravel. Hot water lines are more prone to failure because heat speeds up corrosion. The most common symptoms are a warm spot in the floor, an unexplained jump in the water bill, the sound of water running with everything off, and cracked tile or damp carpet.
DiagnosisWhat we check first
- 01Meter test and line isolation
- We confirm a leak exists and determine whether it is on the hot or cold side.
- 02Pressure testing
- Isolating sections under pressure tells us which line is losing water.
- 03Electronic listening
- Ground microphones and acoustic sensors pinpoint the sound of escaping water through concrete.
- 04Thermal imaging
- On hot water leaks, thermal cameras show the heat spreading through the slab.
The optionsWhich repair fits, and when
We lay out the choices plainly, explain what each involves and leave the decision with you.
Direct access repair
The leak is pinpointed, we cut a small opening in the slab, repair the pipe and patch the concrete.
Reroute the line
The line under the slab is old or has leaked before. A new line is run through walls or the attic and the old one is abandoned.
Partial or full repipe
Multiple leaks or failing pipe throughout. A repipe moves supply lines out of the slab entirely.
Local conditionsSlab Leak Detection on the west side of San Antonio
Slab foundations are standard across west San Antonio, and expansive clay and caliche soils move them more than in many other regions. That movement stresses pipes where they pass through the slab. After long dry spells followed by heavy rain, we often see a jump in slab leak calls around Alamo Ranch, Westover Hills and Marbach.
From the jobNew PVC line exposed in an excavated trench
A few things that help
Check the water meter with all fixtures off. Walk the floors barefoot and note any warm spots. Look for cracked tile or damp carpet and tell us where.
QuestionsCommon questions about slab leak detection
How do I know if I have a slab leak?
Warm floors, a running meter with all water off, the sound of water, cracked tile and a sudden bill increase are common signs.
Do you have to break up my floor?
Only a small area once the leak is pinpointed. If rerouting is the better choice, no concrete needs to be cut.
Can a slab leak damage my foundation?
Over time, yes. Saturated soil under the slab can move, which is why slab leaks should be addressed promptly.
Related workServices that often go with it
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