Are Slab Leaks More Common in Older Homes?

It’s perfectly normal for homes to shift or settle over time. For older homes, this can cause the foundation to put extra stress on the pipes directly underneath your home, causing them to crack and break. As time passes, pipes become more vulnerable to damage, which is why slab leaks are so common in older homes. These slab leaks can cause significant damage to your home if not properly addressed.

Galvanized Pipes

In the 1940s and 50s, galvanized pipes were the industry standard – and thankfully, the plumbing industry has come a long way since then. Now we know that, over time, galvanized pipes can corrode and develop mineral deposits. These deposits can build up, obstructing water flow which can cause the pipes immediately below your foundation to crack or burst from the pressure, resulting in a slab leak.

Abrasion on Pipes

As pipes move water through your home, they move slightly and can scrape against your older home’s concrete slab. Over time, these scrapes can cause damage to the pipes, ultimately developing cracks and leaks near the slab foundation.

Disintegrating Orangeburg Pipes

Homes built in the 1960s often used copper and Orangeburg sewer pipes. These materials corrode more easily than modern pipes, making them susceptible to cracks and holes. If those leaks develop below your foundation, they’ll result in a slab leak.

Why Modernize the Plumbing in Your Older Home

Due to the water accumulation, undetected slab leaks can cause severe damage to your home. Mildew, mold, rot, and soil erosion can lead to serious foundation damage and structural damage.

To protect your loved ones and cherished belongings, consider repiping your home to meet current plumbing standards if it’s more than 70 years old.

To schedule slab leak detection and repair services in the Houston, TX, and greater Clear Lake area, call Alliance Plumbing at 281-488-0296 today!