Why Are Slab Leaks So Common in Texas?

Your property needs a sturdy foundation to stay safe and sound. When issues like slab leaks occur, your foundation is put at risk. Unfortunately, slab leaks are a common plumbing issue in Texas. Due to unique environmental conditions here in Texas, slab leaks tend to be more common, especially in areas where there is a high concentration of homes built on concrete slabs.

Since slab leaks are such a serious and common issue for Texan homeowners, our team at Napps Cooling, Heating & Plumbing has put together this guide that explains what slab leaks are and why they frequently occur in Texas. We also go on to offer advice on how to identify the signs of a slab leak and preventative measures you can take to avoid this plumbing issue at your home.

What Is a Slab Leak?

A slab leak is when the plumbing pipes installed beneath a home’s concrete foundation begin to leak. These leaks can be caused by various factors, such as corrosion of the pipes, shifting soil, or poor installation. Over time, even small leaks can lead to significant water damage, undermine the stability of the foundation, and result in expensive repairs.

Why Are Slab Leaks Common in Texas?

While Texas is a great place to live, the environmental conditions here are to blame for the frequency of slab leaks. Some of the reasons Texas homes are prone to slab leaks include;

Clay Soil

Texas’ soil contains a large amount of clay, which tends to expand and shift significantly when moisture levels change. The frequent expansion and shifting can place stress on your plumbing system and your foundation. This stress can cause the pipes to crack or fracture and lead to a slab leak.

Climate

The hot and humid weather in Texas can cause pipes to corrode faster. This is especially true for galvanized steel pipes, which many homes in Texas have. When pipes are corroded, they are more susceptible to cracking due to expansive soil. This combination creates the perfect conditions for slab leaks to occur.

Outdated Infrastructure

Many older homes throughout Texas rely on outdated plumbing systems. Older pipes made from outdated materials have likely seen a lot of wear and tear. This makes the likelihood of the pipes cracking or corroding and leading to slab leaks much higher.

Signs of a Slab Leak

The sooner you can detect a slab leak, the better. Early detection and action help prevent the leak from doing serious damage to your foundation, so keep an eye out for these common signs of a slab leak:

• Unusually high water bills
• Damp flooring
• Cracks in baseboards or walls
• Sound of running water when no plumbing appliances are in use
• Mold, mildew, or excessive moisture on floors and under carpets
• Standing water or puddles in your home
• Weak water pressure
• Water pooling around the foundation
• Hot or cold spots on your floor

How To Prevent Slab Leaks

When it comes to slab leaks in Texas, the best offense truly is a good defense. By taking these preventative measures, you can greatly reduce the chances of experiencing a slab leak at your property:

• Install a water softener: If you live in an area with hard water, installing a water softener can reduce mineral buildup in pipes, extending the life of your plumbing system.
• Schedule regular plumbing inspections: A professional inspection of your plumbing system can identify weak points or early signs of trouble before they lead to a slab leak.
• Monitor water pressure: High water pressure can stress pipes and cause leaks. Installing a pressure regulator can help maintain a safe water pressure level in your home.
• Foundation maintenance: Watering the soil around your foundation during dry periods can help stabilize the soil and prevent excessive shifting that could damage your plumbing.
• Upgrade aging pipes: If your home has older pipes, consider replacing them with more durable materials, such as PEX, which can withstand soil movement and corrosion better than older metal pipes.

Schedule Slab Leak Services in Longview, TX

If you suspect your home in the Longview area has a slab leak, reach out to our team at Napps Cooling, Heating & Plumbing. We offer expert leak detection and slab leak repair services to ensure your home’s foundation stays safe and reliable. Our plumbers use state-of-the-art tools to detect leaks and apply the necessary repairs. With over 65 years of experience serving residents throughout the greater Longview area, our team fixes it right the first time.

Call Napps Cooling, Heating, & Plumbing today to schedule slab leak repairs in Longview or the surrounding areas.