[adama1]

Thanks in advance for any suggestions>

Two years ago I replaced a wood floor in my dining room that showed signs of discoloration from moisture. At the same time I removed carpet from 3 bedrooms and all showed signs of some moisture between the slab and the pad.

A leak detection company was hired and sent a camera through the sewer lines and pressure tested the water lines and concluded there may be a very small leak. I replaced a supply line to one of the bathrooms by running a plastic line through the existing copper line.

The flooring in the dining room, kitchen, and den were all replaced with ceramic and the grout lines sealed. The floors in the bedrooms were replaced with carpet.

Shortly after water beads started showing up in the den and dining rooms in the grout lines in certain areas. Other areas the grout color changed to a darker color indicating moisture.

I replaced all the water lines under the slab and ran them through the attic and down the walls. Still the moisture was present. I installed a French drain all around the perimeter of the house slab and installed gutters all around the house.

Waited 3 months and water was still present. I blocked off the main sewer line and removed a toilet and filled the line with water to the top of the floor. Waited 4 hrs and no level changed.

So no water leaking from water supply line and no sewer line leaks.

How long does it take for the soil under the slab to dry out? I am still not convinced any water lines were leaking under the slab to start. The house is on a slab with an 18" footing around the perimeter. There is about 15" of sandy soil on top of a dense clay soil under the slab. The house is 24 yrs old.

Could it be an artesian well? Any suggestions on the next plan of action?


Thanks

[doug238]

Do you live in Florida? Has anyone in your area repiped because of pipe failure? Was you meter moving when you had the previous 'leak'?

[adama1]

No I live in Louisiana. No one I am aware of has repiped. The meter would rock back and forth moving less than a couple of 100's over 8 hrs.

[doug238]

Is the air conditioner set way low, too cold? Does the condensate drain to the outside? Is the air handler condensate drain or pan clogged?

[adama1]

AC low setting around 71. Drains into sewer system. Checked it is not plugged. Actually more water was present when the unit was left on 82 while away 5 days on vac.

[doug238]

I would definitely verify over 4 minutes of no meter movement then I may guess flood waters under the house. I personally have never heard of this but without looking I don't know.