Precautions to Take to Prevent Slab Leaks
Regular plumbing maintenance is not only one of the most important things a homeowner can do to keep their home in great shape, but it can also detect problems and have them fixed before they become large and expensive problems.
This is the case with slab leaks, which while being one of the most common plumbing problems within many homes, go undetected for months or sometimes years before damage becomes evident.
However, while this problem can be troublesome, the good news is that there are many things that can be done to prevent slab leaks in most homes.
Correct Pipe Installation
When a house is built, many pipes are constructed below or within the foundation as part of the home’s plumbing system.
However, if these pipes are not installed correctly by workers familiar with slab leaks, the results can be problematic years down the road.
Eventually those pipes will begin to experience stress on certain pressure points within the layout, resulting in cracks forming and water leaking into the foundation. When this happens, the leaks may go undetected for long periods of time.
However, if water bills start to go higher and higher, it’s a good bet there is a slab leak somewhere. A plumber can inspect the pipes and foundation, locate the leak, and make the necessary repairs.
Chemicals and Drain Cleaners
In today’s world, many people assume if they use drain cleaners there is no danger of their pipes being damaged. Unfortunately, that is far from the truth.
For those people who use drain cleaners on a regular basis, chances are they are damaging their home’s pipes more than they know.
In particular, they are probably damaging the pipes located under the foundation, since these pipes are often made of metal and are very susceptible to corrosion due to the chemicals. By using drain cleaners infrequently, slab leaks can be avoided.
Rust-Colored Water
To prevent slab leaks in a home, a plumber should be called if the water starts to take on a rust color. This could indicate pipes within or below the foundation could be leaking due to corrosion, so they should be checked as soon as possible.
If they are found to be leaking, a plumber can install new pipes that will be more resistant to rust and corrosion. This will not only solve the immediate problem, but lessen the chances of future ones as well.
Don’t let a slab leak destroy your home! Call NixCo Plumbing at (513) 398-5907 to get it fixed.