Seven Signs the Cold May Have Triggered a Slab Leak

Those who live in Arizona are well familiar with our hot summers. They know the effects the sweltering temperatures can have on their plumbing and air conditioner. But the colder winter weather—as mild as it might be here—can also take its toll. The chilly overnight desert temperatures can cause slab leaks.

A slab leak is a leak that has developed in a copper water line running below the concrete foundation of your home, or a leak in the concrete itself. They can go undetected for months because the leak lurks below the surface. This can lead to huge problems, including mold damage and termite infestation. Eventually, the slab leak can even cause the homes foundation to collapse. That’s why it’s so important to spot a slab leak before it causes any lasting damage. Watch out for these signs that the cold may have triggered a slab leak:

  • Damp flooring: Unexplained wet spots are never a good sign. Slab leaks will allow water to leak underneath, causing the concrete to become completely saturated with water. The water will eventually be absorbed by the flooring or carpets and may even warp wood floors. Call a plumbing company in Mesa, AZ as soon as you notice any wet spots.
  • Mold: Water that has seeped into the floor will eventually be absorbed by the drywall. This will create an environment prime for mold growth. The mold could cause lasting damage to the drywall, leaving you with no choice but to pay for both mold removal and wall replacement.
  • High water bills: A hidden slab leak could be causing huge spikes in your water bill. Call a plumbing company in Mesa, AZ to find the cause before it gets worse.
  • Musty smells: The damp environment and undetected mold growth can create an unpleasant musty odor. The smell will only get worse the longer the leak persists. A slab leak along the sewer line will smell even worse.
  • Cracks in the baseboard: Persistent dampness can compromise the integrity of the baseboard or walls and eventually cause them to crack.
  • Soaked landscape: Does the backyard lawn suddenly seem mushy with mud and water? A slab leak can flood the backyard with pools of water that never seem to dry. This can ruin the landscape by flooding the dirt and killing the grass.
  • Damaged foundation: A slab leak can cause the floor to rise. Over time, the foundation will start to shift and crack as a result. You’ll be left with no choice but to undergo major repairs to the entire foundation if the leak escalates to this point.

Call a professional for leak repair in Mesa, AZ

Reach out to the team at PlumbSmart Plumbing Heating and Air if you suspect there’s a slab leak in your home. One of our expert technicians will fix the leak and then address any damage it may have caused. The extent of the repair may vary drastically based on the age of the plumbing, the location of the leak and the extent of the damage. Contact us today to schedule an inspection!