Groundwater leaks can go unnoticed for a long time. In most cases, they are only detected once they have caused enough damage so that the signals can be seen from the surface. If you suspect you have a leak, it's vital to repair it as soon as possible, as broken pipes can cause major infrastructure problems and be extremely expensive due to sky-high water bills. Slab leaks represent an enormous challenge for homeowners, given their elusive nature and the high costs involved in repairs.
These leaks, hidden under our floors, can go undetected for days, weeks, or even months. But how long can a leak in a slab go unnoticed? We have to completely shut off the main water valve to stop whatever is causing this huge water bill. To determine if you have a leak, locate your water meter and, if possible, close the property's main water valve. The same is true if your water bill increases suddenly from month to month or if you notice standing water accumulating around the perimeter of your home. A groundwater leak, sometimes also called a slab-shaped leak, is a leak that originates in water pipes that run underneath the house or building.
Over time, the inner walls of the water pipes gradually corrode and, over time, they form holes through which water seeps. While you may not be able to determine the exact source of the leak, you can take a look at your most recent water bills to determine when your pipes might have been damaged. If there is a water leak under the concrete slab your house sits on, dripping water can seep into the foundation and cause cracks. Slab leaks are usually due to copper water pipes slowly corroding over time, and this is especially common when there is hard water.
As mentioned before, groundwater leaks are notoriously difficult to detect and are usually only seen once the damage has occurred. One of the easiest ways to determine if you have a groundwater leak is to look at the water meter. A leaking tile can cause serious water damage and ruin hardwood floors, carpets, drywall, and other furniture. If the water meter dial keeps turning when all the pipes are closed and there is no water running inside or out, it's an obvious indication that there's a leak somewhere in the water pipes.
To do this, first make sure to turn off all water appliances in your house and to record the current water meter reading. And when there is a lot of water due to an underground leak, even soil that drains well will reach a point where it can't hold any more water. Underground leaks can cause tap water to rust, become dirty, or filled with air; however, this can sometimes be a sign of a different problem with the water supply.
