Slab Leak Detection & Repair — Chesapeake Beach, MD
A Chesapeake Beach homeowner noticed their water bill had doubled with no explanation. We used acoustic leak detection to locate a pinhole leak in a copper pipe under the slab — repaired with minimal concrete cutting.
The Problem
A homeowner in Chesapeake Beach called us after receiving a water bill that was nearly double their normal amount. There were no visible leaks anywhere in the house — no wet spots, no water stains, no dripping faucets. The water meter was spinning slowly even when all fixtures were off.
Our Diagnosis
We performed a pressure test on the supply system and confirmed a leak in the pressurized supply line. Using acoustic leak detection equipment, we located the leak under the concrete slab in the hallway — approximately 8 feet from the water heater. The leak was in a 3/4-inch copper supply line, likely caused by acidic well water corroding the pipe over 22 years.
The Repair Process
- 1Performed pressure test to confirm active leak in supply system
- 2Used acoustic leak detection equipment to pinpoint leak location under slab
- 3Marked leak location — 8 feet from water heater, under hallway
- 4Cut 18-inch access opening in concrete slab at leak location
- 5Exposed and inspected copper pipe — found 2 pinhole leaks within 6-inch section
- 6Cut out damaged section and replaced with new copper using compression fittings
- 7Pressure-tested repair at 100 PSI for 30 minutes
- 8Patched concrete slab with hydraulic cement and concrete patch
- 9Recommended acid neutralizer installation to prevent future corrosion
The Outcome
The repair held on pressure test. Water bill returned to normal the following month. We installed an acid neutralizer to raise the pH of the well water from 5.8 to 7.2 — the root cause of the pinhole leaks. No further leaks in the 4 months since repair.
Key Takeaway
Acidic well water (pH below 7.0) is the leading cause of premature copper pipe failure in Calvert County homes. An acid neutralizer is a the cost of the repair investment that can prevent thousands of dollars in leak repairs over the life of the home.
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What Southern Maryland Homeowners Are Saying
Real Google reviews from homeowners we've helped across Calvert & Anne Arundel County.
George Baker III
Annapolis, MD
May 2026
"We recently had Deep Dive Plumbing Maryland out to our home in Annapolis after we suddenly started noticing sewer flies throughout the house. They truly lived up to their name and performed a full "deep dive" diagnostic inspection instead of just treating the symptom. During their inspection they discovered our sewer pipe connected to the toilet had been leaking into the basement for quite some time. The team explained everything clearly, provided upfront pricing before starting any work, and even gave us a military discount which was greatly appreciated. They were professional, respectful, extremely knowledgeable, and took the time to make sure the repair was done correctly."
Angelis Reilly
Southern Maryland
June 2026
"TJ was great!! He answered our emergency call late evening hours. He was honest and gave us options to make a decision. Highly recommend!!"
Sally Ludwig
Dunkirk, MD
June 2026
"Great service with knowledgeable and neat professionals. Highly recommend! Deep Dive Plumbing helped with my bathroom project, including reinstalling a pedestal sink after new flooring was installed and addressing a toilet issue that had been causing constant clogs. The team was professional, courteous, and took the time to make sure everything was completed correctly. Their attention to detail and cleanliness really stood out. I am very happy with the results and would not hesitate to call them again."
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We diagnose first, then fix. No guesswork, no repeat service calls. Serving Calvert and Anne Arundel County, Maryland.