Expert Structural Leak Detection Services

At American Heritage Environmental LLC., we specialize in providing unmatched leak detection services. Our services are designed to quickly and accurately pinpoint leaks, ensuring that your property remains safe and secure. Whether it's a minor drip or a significant water intrusion, our team is equipped with the latest technology to detect leaks in walls, crawlspaces, underground areas, concrete slab foundations, and driveways. Using advanced tools like thermographic and sonar sensors, we can identify the source of the leak and mitigate potential damage.

Water sprays from a pipe on the side of a building, with sunlight creating a mist effect. A ladder is propped against the structure, and trees are visible in the background.
A partial view of a thin, black curved line set against a white background.
Person using an orange metal detector in a backyard with plants and a wooden fence.

What is Structural Leak Detection

Structural leak detection is the process of identifying the source of a leak or moisture intrusion that may not be directly related to plumbing systems. This thorough inspection is essential for detecting potential leaks, preventing further damage, and ultimately protecting the integrity of your home. Early detection is crucial, as prolonged exposure to water or moisture can lead to extensive damage and costly repairs.

Plumbing Leak Detection

Leak detection in plumbing systems can be especially challenging because leaks often go unnoticed until they become significant issues. For example, the constant drip of a leaking faucet can be barely audible during the day but becomes incredibly loud and intrusive in the quiet of the night. While traditional methods for locating leaks, such as relying on nighttime quiet to isolate the sound of escaping water, can work in residential settings, they are less effective in facilities that operate around the clock. Fortunately, advanced technology now allows professionals to magnify the sound of leaks, making them much easier to detect, regardless of ambient noise.

A hand holds a moisture meter against a wall, displaying 67.5% with peeling paint visible.

Advanced Leak Detection Technology

American Heritage Environmental employs state-of-the-art sensors that detect sounds like the gurgling or hammering caused by cracked pipes beneath the surface. We use ground sensors to detect leaks through hard surfaces such as concrete, asphalt, and tile, while probe sensors are effective for softer surfaces like grass or carpet, or for direct contact with above-ground pipes and hydrants. These sensors are equipped with shock-resistant housings to minimize background noise.

Safety Tips

To protect your hearing, always use a leak locator with a safety switch, which mutes loud sounds when the button is released.

Leaks often produce distinctive sounds based on three primary factors:

Pipe Vibration

Pipe Vibration

The loudest and easiest to detect, caused by water forcing its way through a crack in the pipe, producing a whooshing or hissing sound.

Water Impact

Water Impact

As water hits the surrounding soil, the type of material (e.g., rock, gravel, or loose soil) affects the sound. Harder materials often produce hammering or knocking sounds.

Water Flow

Water Flow

Water flowing through the soil creates a gurgling sound, resembling a small stream or brook.

A partial view of a thin, black curved line set against a white background.
A hand holds a thermal imaging camera displaying a color image of heat distribution on a building's wall.

Accurate Leak Detection in Challenging Environments

Leaks in certain environments, such as loose or sandy soil or newly buried pipes, may produce more muffled sounds, making them harder to detect. Additionally, pipes that have been leaking for some time may absorb the vibrations, further complicating detection. At American Heritage Environmental, we use the latest technologies, including thermographics and sonar sensors, to precisely locate leaks in walls, crawlspaces, underground, concrete slabs, and driveways. Our expertise ensures that we can pinpoint the exact source of leaks, preventing the damage they can cause.

Accurate Leak Detection in Challenging Environments

Leaks in certain environments, such as loose or sandy soil or newly buried pipes, may produce more muffled sounds, making them harder to detect. Additionally, pipes that have been leaking for some time may absorb the vibrations, further complicating detection. At American Heritage Environmental, we use the latest technologies, including thermographics and sonar sensors, to precisely locate leaks in walls, crawlspaces, underground, concrete slabs, and driveways. Our expertise ensures that we can pinpoint the exact source of leaks, preventing the damage they can cause.

A person uses a handheld thermal imaging camera to detect temperature variations on a wall and pipes.
A person holds a magnifying glass over a small model house on a white surface.

Reach Out Today

Structural leak detection is a critical process that helps identify and locate leaks or moisture sources that are not directly associated with plumbing issues, safeguarding your property from extensive damage. Our pipe leak detection services utilize cutting-edge sensors to locate leaks through various surfaces, ensuring effective solutions. We also offer 24/7 services, ensuring that you get the help you need whenever you need it. For a free quote, call or email us today.