Emergency Slab Leak Services in Columbia, SC

Trust the Most Experienced & Best Rated Plumbers in Columbia, SC

Post-WWII, many U.S. homes were built upon concrete slabs because of their durability, cost-effectiveness, and straightforward construction. These slabs are your home’s foundation, and beneath them run your plumbing, piping, and underground water lines. As you can imagine, concrete slabs are difficult to get around.

So when leaks in those water lines occur — also known as slab leaks — they spell trouble fast as they’re hard to detect and resolve. Often, they require advanced tools and techniques to diagnose the leak source and fix it properly. 

Slab leaks can quickly turn into a homeowner’s worst nightmare. The hidden nature of these leaks often means significant damage has already occurred by the time they’re noticed. You might see water pooling in unexpected places, notice damp floors, or experience a sudden spike in your water bill. Worse, slab leaks can threaten your foundation’s integrity and lead to costly repairs if left unchecked.

At Cassell Brothers, we understand how stressful and overwhelming this situation can feel. That’s why we’re here 24/7 to provide expert slab leak detection and repair services in Columbia, SC. With decades of experience, advanced tools, and a commitment to your satisfaction, we’ll quickly identify the problem, stop the damage, and restore your peace of mind.

What Causes a Slab Leak?

• Contracting or expanding soil: This is a common cause of slab leaks. Soil contracts and expands when it goes from wet to dry, and that movement can often threaten your underground water lines. Though you may not notice these leaks for some time, they’ll damage the pipes and cause more water to spill out, creating a dangerous cycle that could cost lots of money if not dealt with correctly.
• Improper housing materials: Slab construction gained popularity in the 1940s. Slab foundations comprise over 60% of newly built homes in the U.S. today. Older homes may be made of deteriorating, insufficient materials that won’t maintain the integrity of your pipes. Newer homes may be more susceptible to slab leaks if constructed improperly or with inadequate materials.

Signs You Have a Slab Leak

Most modern homeowners are unfamiliar with how slab foundations work. What’s more, these leaks occur under layers of concrete and may persist for long periods without you ever knowing what to look for or what’s causing the issue. It can make a world of difference if you enlist professional plumbing help when you notice signs like:

• An increase in water bills
• Uneven growth in your lawn or plants near the slab foundation
• Wet spots around your foundation
• Cracks in your floorboards and walls
• The sound of water running below your floor when no appliances are on

Contact our plumbing professionals online or call us if you suspect your home may have a slab leak.

Why Columbia Homeowners Trust Our Slab Leak Expertise

For over 30 years, Cassell Brothers has been the trusted name in plumbing services in Columbia, SC. Our team has earned more than 4,000 glowing reviews from satisfied homeowners.

Every technician is licensed, insured, and background-checked, so you know your home is in safe hands. We stand behind our work with a one-year warranty and promise upfront pricing with no hidden fees. Flexible financing options are available to fit your budget, and we use state-of-the-art technology to deliver efficient, reliable repairs.

Our Slab Leak Repairs Process

At Cassell Brothers, every slab leak repair begins with precisely detecting the leak source. Each leak is unique, but once it’s located, our experts will recommend a comprehensive repair strategy that involves one of several methods, including:

• Repiping above ground: In some situations, rerouting your piping above ground instead of working through underground lines is a better choice. Our plumbers recommend specialized repiping solutions that open up new water lines in more accessible areas of your home.
• Drilling into your cement slab and fixing leaks: This is usually the last resort as it’s the most costly, disruptive, and intensive way to fix a slab leak. It involves advanced drilling that severely impacts other areas of your home and requires you to relocate until the job is finished.
• Tunneling beneath the slab: Tunneling is a minimally invasive option that allows homeowners to stay in their homes while our plumbers and/or certified engineers tunnel underground. Once repairs are complete, we make a point of safely and correctly replacing and treating the soil that was dug out.

Slab Leak Repair: Understanding Your Options & Costs

The cost of slab leak repair depends on several factors. The location of the leak plays a big role; easily accessible leaks cost less to repair than those in hard-to-reach areas. The extent of the damage is another key factor, as severe foundation damage or water damage can increase costs. The repair method also matters—ranging from simple water line repair to complex foundation repair. Local building codes in Columbia may also influence costs, as all work must comply with regulations.

The best way to understand your repair options and get an accurate estimate is to schedule an inspection with Cassell Brothers. Our upfront pricing ensures there are no surprises, and we’ll help you choose the most effective solution for your home.

For expert plumbing services in The Midlands, count on Cassell Brothers. Call us or schedule slab leak repairs online with us today.

Immediate Actions for Suspected Slab Leaks

If you think you have a slab leak, taking the right steps before professional help arrives can minimize damage.

• Turn off your water supply: Prevent further flooding or water damage.
• Check for signs: Look for damp spots, warm floors, or cracks in your foundation.
• Avoid DIY fixes: Attempting repairs without expertise can make the problem worse.
• Monitor moisture levels: Keep an eye on the affected area until a professional arrives.

While these actions can help limit immediate damage, it’s crucial to wait for an expert to handle the repair. Mistakes in dealing with underground pipes or foundation damage can lead to more expensive fixes later.

Essential Slab Leak Questions Answered

• What causes slab leaks?
  Common causes include shifting soil, pipe corrosion, and poor installation. Columbia’s clay-rich soil and fluctuating weather patterns can also contribute to slab leaks.
• What are the signs of a slab leak?
  Look for damp or warm spots on floors, cracks in your foundation, water pooling, or an unexplained increase in your water bill.
• Can slab leaks damage my foundation?
  Yes, untreated slab leaks can erode soil beneath your home, causing foundation cracks and instability.
• Is slab leak repair covered by insurance?
  Many insurance policies cover water damage caused by slab leaks, but it’s best to check with your provider for specifics.
• How can I prevent slab leaks?
  Regular plumbing inspections, proper drainage, and monitoring for early signs of leaks can help reduce the risk.

Count on Cassell Brothers for Slab Leak Repairs

When you’re experiencing slab leaks, “Call on Cassell for Comfort!” Every plumber on our family-owned and -operated team is licensed, bonded, and insured, so you can enjoy plumbing services that are 100% satisfaction guaranteed.

For expert plumbing services in The Midlands, count on Cassell Brothers. Call us or schedule slab leak repairs online with us today.