Slab Leak Detection
A slab leak is a water line failure under a home's concrete foundation. Detection uses acoustic listening, pressure isolation, thermal imaging, and tracer gas to pinpoint the break before any concrete is opened.
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Signs of a slab leak
- A warm or hot spot on the floor (hot-water line leaks)
- The sound of running water when every fixture is off
- Unexplained rise in the water bill
- Damp carpet, buckling wood, or loose tile
- A musty smell near the floor
- Reduced hot water pressure
How professionals locate a slab leak
Detection starts by isolating the system: shutting the main and watching the meter, then separating hot and cold lines to determine which side is losing water. From there, acoustic listening equipment, thermal imaging, and pressurized tracer gas narrow the leak to a small area of slab.
Accurate detection matters because it determines the repair option — spot repair through the slab, rerouting the line overhead or through walls, or a partial repipe.
Is a slab leak an emergency?
It is urgent rather than instantly catastrophic. A slab leak rarely floods a home in minutes, but it can erode soil under the foundation, drive humidity and mold, and waste large volumes of water. Most homeowners should have it evaluated within days, not months.
Frequently asked questions
Can I confirm a slab leak myself?
You can gather strong evidence: shut off every fixture and appliance, then watch the water meter. Continued movement means water is leaving the system somewhere. Locating it under concrete requires professional equipment.
Does detection damage the floor?
Detection itself is generally non-destructive. Concrete is opened only for the repair, after the leak location is confirmed.
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