Sometimes under slab leaks can go unnoticed. This is because it happens beneath the house foundation. However, it is good to have tips for identifying slab leaks to help you address the issue.
Some of the signs of a slab leak are; a high water bill, crack on the foundation, damp floors, and foul odor from floors and walls.
Slab leaks can introduce wastewater that can be costly to repair. So, if you suspect your slab is leaking, take the shortest time to call an expert to avoid more damage.
As discussed below, the average cost of repairing a slab differs depending on the plumber and many other reasons.
Factors Affecting Under-Slab Plumbing Repair Costs
Many factors affect the cost of repairing slab leaks. They include;
Demolition Of Other Parts
When repairing slab leaks, other parts of the building may be demolished. In one way or another, walls, floors, and other structures may be taken down for better repair. The demolition can be done by using a machine or hand to increase the repair work cost.
The Severity Of The Slab Leak
The under slab plumbing repair cost can be affected by the leak’s extent. If the leak is in an accessible area, it can be less expensive. You may not require modern equipment to detect leaks. But if you are forced to use modern tools to detect the slab leak, the financial needs increase.
Disposal of Hazardous Materials
During slab plumbing repair, there is the generation of debris. Disposal of debris and other hazardous materials like asbestos comes with a cost. As the owner of the building, you must be ready to cater for the expenses.
The Different Slab Leak Detection
Detecting slab plumbing issues mostly requires advanced tools like electronic listening tools. Again, a need for line-tracing equipment may arise. Also, line video inspection around the slab may be required affecting slab plumbing repair costs.
Causes of Slab Leaks
Damages on the plumbing pipes under the slab can cause leakages. Some other common causes are;
- Ground movements that cause soil shifts, earthquakes, and sinkholes can lead to slab leaks. This movement can cause under pipes to crack hence the leaking.
- Abrasion due to water passing through the pipes can cause slab leaks. The pipes can vibrate and rub against the concrete, gravel, and slab, and with time the pipes wear out and crack, leading to leaks.
- The under-plumbing pipes can rust with time, wearing the metal and leading to leaks.
- High water pressure through the pipes on the foundation can damage the pipes forcing the water through the joints.
- Slab leaks can result from old pipes after they have deteriorated
Factors to Consider When Choosing Slab Plumber
Under-slab leaks are an issue that can be addressed. So many plumbers claim to be experts, and few can deal with foundation plumbing issues. Don’t go for less; consider the below factors to make an informed decision.
Experience
Consider a plumbing contractor or company with vast experience in slab leaks. Slab plumbing issues require an expert and a person who understands the techniques used to detect underground leaks.
The plumber must as well have successfully repaired slabs in different properties. From small houses to commercial buildings, the plumber must prove professionalism.
Certification
Your preferred slab leak repair service provider should be certified. Confirm the certification number to ensure authenticity. It is good for the plumber to have a master plumber for you to be sure of the services.
Most master plumbers are more qualified, and they have attained other qualifications. Also, they are recognized by the state board as the best plumbers.
License and Insurance
Your preferred slab leak repair contractor needs to have licensing credentials for you to be safe as they work on your building. The license ensures perfect services as you can sue them in case of shoddy work.
Also, the plumbers need to be insured. This liability insurance policy must be able to cover bodily injury and property damages. So, checking with their insurance company is important to confirm the worth of the insurance policy.
Through this, the slab leak repair provider will work diligently, knowing they are liable in case of any damage and injury.
Customer Reviews
People may not see it as a good way, but gaining information about your preferred service provider is advantageous. You need to know of the performance and how they have been dealing with its clients.
Check out all this information from different online platforms. Also, word of the month from previous clients can help you know if you are about to work with a well-reputed company.
When speaking to past clients, you can ask if the company has certification, time, and technical issues. A good company should speak for itself through the services it provides. That’s why; you can find people referring you to a service provider.
Tool and Equipment Used
When looking for a plumber, confirm the work tools and equipment. The slab leak repair service provider should have the right working tools and equipment to detect and solve plumbing issues.
Some plumbers need help to afford modern equipment for detecting slab leaks. If you are not keen on this, you may fully solve your slab issues leading to more water waste. If you have no idea about plumbing tools and equipment, consider hiring someone to take care of the whole project.
Communication Skills
Communication is vital in any company. The slab leak repair contractor needs the best plumbers with communication skills. You can engage the plumbers in a conversation to gauge their potentiality.
The contractor should communicate the time and when they finish the project. Through proper communication, everything can go smoothly.
Conclusion
As a property owner, you should be checking slab leaks. Though hard to know, some signs should signal you to call a plumber. Repairing slab leaks can be costly if the issue is not detected early enough.
This article teaches how to detect slab plumbing issues and gives tips on finding the right plumber.