Even though it might not seem like much of a threat initially, a water leak under the slab in San Diego households is no trifling matter. It can be extremely hard to detect, and even harder to deal with once it reaches the surface. At that point, taking action to avoid massive slab leak harm is crucial, and we’re about to tell how to do it properly.
Also, knowing the right way to waterproof your concrete foundation so as to deter sinkholes and other potential consequences of slab leaks might be even more important. Luckily, we’ve covered that as well so that you can have one less worry on your mind. Keep reading for some invaluable info!
How do you stop water seeping under a slab floor?
If you’ve had a professional successfully identify a slab leak with special equipment or managed to recognize a leak in your concrete foundation on your own, here’s what you can do to handle the issue:
Fill the cracks
No matter how small the cracks are, they can still inflict enormous damage on your house. In order to seal them, you will need a concrete patching compound you can find in hardware and home improvement stores. Apply the compound on a clean crack with a trowel or a putty knife and let it dry until it forms a waterproof seal.
Support joints
Any joints in your concrete floor also invite water to seep in, and the best way to stop water here is to seal them up with exterior-grade caulk. Seal up the joints between the floor and the walls, as well as any expansion joints that were installed in your concrete floor slab. Lastly, seal around any fixtures that penetrate the floor, such as pipes or heaters.
Seal the concrete
Another option is to seal up the porous surface of the concrete with a silicate-based sealant. Spread it over the concrete with a paint roller or a paintbrush and it will penetrate the holes through which water is oozing. The material will reach lime in the concrete, expand, and harden to fill in the surface entirely.
How do you waterproof a slab foundation?
A sure-fire way of averting leaks in the slab is making your concrete foundation waterproof. The most common methods of doing this are:
Installing an interior drain tile system
An interior drain tile system can reduce hydrostatic pressure and stop water from flowing from below and damaging mechanical systems. Placing heating ducts and other mechanicals under your slab can complicate the installation, but the drain tile will take effect as long as it is built in below the level of any HVAC ductwork.
Putting an exterior drain tile system in place
You can also install an exterior drain tile system, along with an exterior waterproofing membrane applied to the frost walls. This will prevent further water penetration through them.
Proper yard drainage and water management
In order to keep your concrete slab dry, you should also make sure to keep your gutters clean and flowing. Additionally, extending downspouts away from the house also goes a long way in preventing slab leaks.
Looking for professional water leak under slab repairs in San Diego? KIC Restoration is at your service!
Don’t let slab leaks bother you for a second longer and make you concerned about the 
condition of your house. With KIC Restoration readily available, you can rest assured that our expert plumbers will arrive in record time to pinpoint the leak and handle it skillfully. We are fully committed to ensuring your home is once again completely safe.
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Book now and get the finest service available.