Finding Water Leaks Under Concrete

A slab leak is a break in a pipe that runs beneath the concrete foundation of your home.

Finding water leaks under concrete.

How to find the source of a leaking tub drain. Water stains on the ceiling or joists below. Slab leaks can occur in either water or sewer lines. Signs of trouble bathtub drain leaking.

The only problem you may encounter is cavitation this. With concrete slab leaks contrast in temperatureis important in enabling the thermal camera to visualize the source of a potential leak. If you have carpeted floors search for areas that look darker or are unexpectedly damp. Slab leaks cause costly damage so early detection is important.

If you have wood panel floors watch out for spots where the wood starts to warp. To find a water leak under a concrete floor is relatively straightforward particularly if the leak has a high frequency or has a high volume. Loose flooring near the tub or damp floors in adjoining rooms if the tub is on a concrete slab. If you find no leaks coming from these apparent sites then there s a high likelihood that you have a leak under the floor.

Concrete allows sound to pass through it fairly cleanly this is due to there being little variation in the density or make up of the material. Infrared cameras don t see water but rather can visualize the impact water has on the temperature of surfaces around them due to the evaporation process. If the water meter test indicates a leak inside your home check the cabinets under the kitchen laundry and bathroom sinks to make sure they re dry. Water bills that are suddenly higher than normal this can be accompanied by higher gas electric bills if the leak is in a hot water pipe sudden presence of mold mildew in walls or under carpet areas of the floor that are suddenly warm if you have pets they may suddenly prefer to sit in these warm spots.

Slab leaks create water build ups underneath your concrete foundation. If you notice that one area of the floor is hotter or colder than another area chances are you have a water leak. An easy trick if the water leak is hot water is to simply place your hand on the floor or walk barefoot. Investigate appliances and fixtures.