A slab leak is one of those plumbing problems that can sneak up on you — silent, hidden, and expensive if left unchecked. Many Georgia homeowners don’t even realize there’s a problem until they notice damage underfoot or a spike in their water bill.
Knowing the early warning signs of a slab leak and how to act quickly can save you thousands in repairs and protect your home’s foundation from long-term damage.
Understanding What a Slab Leak Is — and Why It Happens
Before we talk about fixing a slab leak, let’s start with the basics.
A slab leak occurs when a water pipe running beneath your home’s concrete foundation develops a crack or pinhole. Because the plumbing is encased in concrete, the water has nowhere to go — so it seeps into the foundation and the surrounding soil.
Over time, this can cause:
- Foundation shifts or cracks
- Damp floors and walls
- Mold and mildew growth
- Sudden water pressure changes
Homes throughout Dallas, Marietta, and Metro Atlanta are particularly prone to slab leaks due to soil movement, temperature fluctuations, and aging water lines.
Common causes of slab leaks include:
- Corrosion from hard water minerals
- High water pressure or constant vibration
- Poor installation or thin copper pipes
- Soil expansion and contraction after heavy rain or drought
Even a small leak can release gallons of water a day — so catching it early makes all the difference.
Top 6 Warning Signs You Might Have a Slab Leak
Spotting the early symptoms is your best chance to prevent serious structural damage. If you notice any of the following, call a plumber right away:
1. Unexplained Increase in Water Bills
A steady rise in your water bill, even when usage stays the same, is one of the most common red flags.
2. Warm or Wet Spots on Your Floors
If part of your floor feels warmer than the rest, it could be a leaking hot-water line beneath your slab.
3. Low or Fluctuating Water Pressure
A slab leak can divert water away from your fixtures, leading to inconsistent pressure or slow-flowing taps.
4. Mold, Mildew, or Musty Odors
Persistent dampness under flooring provides the perfect environment for mold and mildew growth.
5. Cracks in Tile or Foundation
When soil shifts beneath your home, it can cause visible cracks in the floor, baseboards, or walls.
6. The Sound of Running Water When Everything Is Off
Hearing water movement when no fixtures are running is a major indicator of a hidden leak.
How a Professional Plumber Diagnoses and Repairs a Slab Leak
Once you suspect a slab leak, the next step is professional diagnosis. Detecting a leak under concrete requires specialized tools and experience — this isn’t a DIY fix.
At TKO Plumbing Services, we work closely with trusted local leak detection experts who use advanced equipment to pinpoint the exact location of the leak. Once identified, our team steps in to handle the slab leak repair safely and efficiently.
Our repair process typically includes:
- Coordinating the leak detection inspection
- Evaluating whether the line should be repaired or rerouted
- Carefully accessing the pipe through the foundation or a nearby wall
- Replacing damaged sections with durable materials
- Pressure-testing the system to confirm all leaks are resolved
We focus on minimizing disruption to your home while ensuring a long-term, watertight repair.
Preventing Slab Leaks in the Future
While some leaks are caused by age or soil movement, regular plumbing maintenance can significantly reduce your risk. Here’s what homeowners can do:
- Have your water pressure tested annually to prevent pipe stress.
- Schedule a plumbing inspection every few years — especially in older homes.
- Install a water softener if your area has hard water to reduce corrosion.
- Don’t ignore small leaks — they often indicate a larger hidden problem.
Catching small plumbing issues early helps prevent full-blown slab leaks later on.
When to Call a Professional for Slab Leak Repair
If you notice any of the warning signs above, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Slab leaks can erode your foundation, warp flooring, and even lower your home’s structural integrity over time.
TKO Plumbing Services specializes in slab leak repair throughout Metro Atlanta, including Dallas, Marietta, Lithonia, Hiram, and surrounding Georgia communities. We’ll coordinate leak detection, perform expert repairs, and restore your home’s plumbing system quickly — all with no service fees and upfront pricing you can trust.
Call TKO Plumbing for Expert Slab Leak Repair in Metro Atlanta
Don’t let a hidden leak turn into a costly foundation repair. If you suspect a slab leak, call TKO Plumbing Services today at 678-383-5883 or contact us online. Our licensed plumbers will repair the problem efficiently, protect your home’s structure, and help you get back to peace of mind.
