Three ways to stop a slab leak
A spot repair opens the floor at the marked location, cuts out the damaged section and splices in new pipe. A reroute abandons the leaking under-slab line and runs a new line through walls, ceilings or the attic to the same fixtures. A repipe replaces most or all of the home's supply piping, usually overhead.
There is no single right answer. In a Fullerton home where the original copper is otherwise sound and this is the first leak, a spot repair may be sensible. Where leaks have happened before, or the pipe shows thinning and corrosion, moving the water lines out of the slab can head off the next one.
Side by side
| Spot repair | Reroute | Repipe | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What is replaced | A short section at the leak | One line or branch, moved out of the slab | Most or all supply lines |
| Floor opening | Yes, at the leak | Usually none in the slab | Usually none in the slab |
| Wall and ceiling openings | Rarely | Some, along the new route | Several, then patched |
| Best fit | First leak in otherwise sound pipe | Repeat leaks on one line, especially hot | Many leaks or failing pipe throughout |
| Remaining risk | Other old pipe under slab can still leak | Other under-slab lines remain | Lowest for supply lines |
Which way to lean
- IfThis is the first leak and the exposed pipe looks healthyA spot repair is often reasonable.
- IfThe same hot line has leaked beforeAsk about rerouting that line overhead.
- IfLeaks have appeared on several lines over a few yearsGet an evaluation for a partial or whole-house repipe.
- IfThe leak sits under expensive or irreplaceable flooringA reroute may avoid opening the floor at all.
- IfThe house still has galvanized supply linesRepiping is commonly discussed because galvanized pipe corrodes from the inside.
Factors that shape the decision
- Pipe material
- Copper, galvanized or newer plastic lines
- Leak history
- First leak or one of several
- Location
- Under tile, hardwood, cabinets or open floor
- Access
- Attic space and wall routes available
- Plans
- Remodeling soon or staying long term
Questions to ask about each option
- What did the exposed or tested pipe look like?
- How many openings will this take, and who patches them?
- What pipe material will you use and why?
- Does this need a city permit and inspection?
- What happens to the old line left under the slab?
Common questions
Is rerouting better than a spot repair?
Not always. Rerouting avoids breaking the slab and moves that line out of harm's way, but it involves wall and ceiling openings. It tends to make most sense after repeat leaks.
What is epoxy pipe lining?
Some contractors coat the inside of existing pipes. Ask any contractor proposing it what the method involves, what it suits, and how it is inspected.
Will I need to move out for a repipe?
Many repipes are done with the household in place, with water off during parts of the work. Ask the plumber about the schedule and water outages.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.