In the world of plumbing, the terms “slab leak” and “structural damage” almost always go hand in hand. No surprise there, really, seeing how this particular issue can reach such an extent that it can jeopardize the integrity of buildings on your property in virtually no time.
Even with this in mind, the vast majority of homeowners remain reluctant to have Riverside County slab leak detection experts do regular inspections and maintenance of their sub-foundational piping infrastructure.
The main reason for this is that the consequences of allowing this problem to persist mostly remain an unknown, simply due to its situational and hidden nature. Today, we’ll help remedy that by delving deeper into the assessment of water-based foundation damage.
What are the structural damages due to slab leaks?
Subsurface leaks are nothing to be trifled with, as they can cause an array of structural hazards. These may include (but aren’t limited to):
Foundation damage
Starting with the obvious, slab leaks are notorious for their ability to saturate or erode the soil beneath the foundation. This can lead to subsidence, settling, or shifting of the foundation, resulting in uneven floors, cracks in walls, and overall structural instability.
Cracks in walls & floors
As the building’s foundation moves due to water damage, it inevitably stresses the walls and flooring above it. After a (short) while these shifts can cause visible cracks which can compromise the structural and aesthetic integrity of the building.
Sinking/settling of the slab
The same soil shifts can also cause the slab to sink or settle unevenly, causing a variety of issues including sloping floors, misaligned doors and windows, cracked walls and ceilings, and many others.
Structural instability
If slab leaks are left untreated for a prolonged period, they can begin to weaken the building’s framework. This can potentially lead to sagging floors and crooked walls, as well as a complete collapse of the building (in most extreme cases).
Wood rot
Every building has a large amount of wooden components, such as supporting beams and subflooring. If these elements are exposed to continual moisture, they can weaken, deteriorate, and eventually rot, further undermining the structural integrity of the building.
Electrical hazards
Moisture from slab leaks can seep into virtually every part of the structure, enabling it to reach wiring and electrical systems. When that happens, it can cause short-circuits which can lead to extensive damage and, in worst-case scenarios, electrical fires.
Non-structural dangers of slab leaks
Although not as dangerous as some issues on this list, some foundation-leak-related problems can grow to be more than a nuisance, which is why they bear mention here.
- Compromised insulation: Water saturation can reduce the effectiveness of insulation materials. This can lead to decreased energy efficiency, as well as heating and cooling problems.
- Mold & mildew growth: Believe it or not, these fungi aren’t just eye and nose sores. They can damage building materials and pose health risks to the occupants.
- Damage to personal property: Moisture can damage furniture, electronics, and other common household items, which can result in costly repairs or replacements.
- Increased utility bills: Continuous water loss and compromised energy efficiency can result in higher utility bills, especially if the problem persists for long periods of time.
Where in Riverside County can I find experts for slab leak detection?
From Corona to Blythe and throughout Riverside County, you won’t find a more reliable plumbing team than The Leak Detection Pros. Expertly trained in the latest leak detection and remediation techniques, and equipped with state-of-the-art tools and accessories, our experts are able to deliver top-quality results with great consistency. Get in touch with us today and ensure your property has the protection it deserves!