Finding Water Leaks Under Concrete

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.

Finding water leaks under concrete.

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. A slab leak is a break in a pipe that runs beneath the concrete foundation of your home. To escape this water may pool on top of your floors yard or the concrete itself. 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.

If you have wood panel floors watch out for spots where the wood starts to warp. In the case of a tub set on a concrete slab the leak will ruin flooring in the bathroom or adjoining rooms. Loose flooring near the tub or damp floors in adjoining rooms if the tub is on a concrete slab. An easy trick if the water leak is hot water is to simply place your hand on the floor or walk barefoot.

Slab leaks can occur in either water or sewer lines. 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. 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. When the pipe breaks water seeps into the ground and your home s foundation.

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. Slab leaks create water build ups underneath your concrete foundation. Water stains on the ceiling or joists below.

If you find no leaks coming from these apparent sites then there s a high likelihood that you have a leak under the floor. Investigate appliances and fixtures. If you notice that one area of the floor is hotter or colder than another area chances are you have a water leak. How to find the source of a leaking tub drain.