Property owners do everything they can to keep the place in good condition. However, whether it’s rodents, bad weather, or general wear and tear, maintenance tasks can quickly become tedious. However, few things cause as much widespread damage as water, particularly if you have no idea how to detect a water leak under concrete before it spells trouble.

Advantage Plumbing & Sewer Co.’s knowledgeable plumbers in West Chicago, IL, know first-hand how challenging it can be to find hidden leaks and fix them before things get serious. These water leak detection experts share more about common concrete floor leak issues below, so if you notice any of the signs of a leak and need a plumber, be sure to call the team as soon as possible. 

Watch For Sudden Water Bill Increases 

When your water bill suddenly increases without warning, and you don’t receive notice of a rate increase, there’s a good chance you have a plumbing leak somewhere. 

Is the problem in the hot water lines? The gas or electric bill might spike because the water heater must constantly run to keep up with demand.

Still, even a small leak under a concrete floor can waste hundreds of gallons of water. Don’t wait too long; you’ll see a noticeable increase in your monthly water bill if you don’t catch it in time.

Don’t Ignore Water Pressure Changes

Have you noticed a weaker flow in the shower or while washing the dishes? Perhaps the laundry doesn’t seem as clean after a machine cycle. Plumbing leaks can cause a decrease in water pressure, which needs attention from a professional plumber.

Inspect For Wet or Damaged Flooring

Water leaks under the concrete floor can easily damage any carpet or flooring materials on top of it. In that case, you might notice the following issues:

• Wet spots on the carpet
• Wood flooring starting to warp, buckle, or split
• Dark stains

Unusually warm spots on the floor can also indicate a concrete slab leak from a break in the hot water line. Pets will often be the first to find these warm areas, so check for a hidden water leak under the floor if your furriest family members have changed their favorite napping spot.

Follow Moldy or Musty Smells To The Source 

If you’re wondering how to detect a water leak under concrete like a professional, start by following your nose. Water damage quickly causes mold and mildew, which have distinct odors. If you notice a musty or unpleasant odor around, the water lines under the concrete floor could be in urgent need of repair.

Take Visible Mold Seriously

Finding hidden leaks isn’t always a game of hide-and-seek; mold on the walls or in and under the carpet fibers also indicates a severe moisture problem. If you rule out other potential water sources, the next logical conclusion could be a concrete slab leak.

Monitor Unusual Noises 

One common sign of a plumbing leak is the constant sound of running water. You may not hear anything if the leak is tiny and water is slowly seeping out of the pipe, so stay alert to the other signs of trouble. However, even if it sounds far away, it’s best not to ignore dripping or running water if you aren’t using a faucet or running appliances.

Thankfully, it’s easy to confirm a leak by checking the meter as follows:

• Turn off all the appliances connected to the water line, including sinks and toilets.
• Remove the cover from the meter. 
• Check whether the numbers are still running.

If the meter is still running, your water is flowing. If so, it’s likely that your property has a leak.

Check for Damaged Concrete

In time, water leaks can severely damage concrete floors. It might be that the wet soil underneath the concrete can shift and resettle, moving the concrete and causing cracks or uneven flooring. You might also notice puddles or damp spots.

If the water is seeping up through the concrete floor, it will damage walls, floors, and ceilings. Are there unexplained water spots or stains visible? Your property may have an undetected slab leak.

Link Potential Outdoor Issues

Sometimes, problems in the yard necessitate detecting water leaks. For example, water can erode the soil under your property’s foundation, causing depressions or, in extreme cases, sinkholes. Watch for clues like pooling water, low spots where there weren’t any previously, or outdoor areas that always seem wetter or muddier than the rest of the yard.

Know What to Do After Detecting a Water Leak Under Your Concrete Floor

Knowing how to detect a water leak under concrete is only the first step. Next, you’ll need to call a reliable plumber like Advantage Plumbing & Sewer Co. The team should arrive with leak-detecting equipment to investigate and advise you on how to proceed. 

For instance, a typical leak detection service will locate the leak, turn off the water supply, and then make the necessary repairs and replacements. They might also need to remediate any mold as a result of the leak.

Find Out How Plumbers Detect and Repair Slab Leaks 

Have you called a plumber for underfloor leak detection? Several methods help these professionals to find and assess the problem, including pressure testing, moisture meters, thermal imaging, and acoustic detection.

Depending on what they find, plumbers can repair the leak or replace damaged lines. Some cases may require cutting out portions of the concrete to access the pipe.

Call Advantage Plumbing & Sewer CO. for Help With Concrete Floor Leaks and More

Will a clogged shower drain cause a leak? Whether you aren’t sure how to detect a water leak under concrete or you have questions about water pipes and fixtures, Advantage Plumbing & Sewer Co. can help. The team serves homes and businesses in West Chicago, IL, and the surrounding areas through reliable repairs, maintenance, and installation services. 

Stop plumbing leaks today—call Advantage Plumbing & Sewer Co. at (847) 613-1344 or schedule an appointment online!