Can A Pipe Leak Under A Driveway Be Repaired Without Removing It?
South End Plumbing, Heating, & Air Expert Tips

Can a Pipe Under a Driveway Be Repaired Without Removing It?
It begins as just a trickle– an innocent little stream of water diminishing the driveway. Perhaps you blame it on the rain you have actually been having lately or presume the neighbor is over-watering their yard once again.
However, in time, that trickle grows. Quickly, you see swimming pools of water around your home or on the road. You see that your water bill is increasing, even though you don’t seem like you’re using more. Ultimately, your home’s water pressure begins to drop.
Uh oh … you’ve got a water leak under the driveway. How do you fix it, will I have to have all or part of my concrete driveway replaced? Here we’ll cover some of the details and options:

Why is Water Coming from Under My Driveway?
A couple of common culprits often cause a water leakage under the driveway. Over time, pipelines can simply wear with age. Even if pipes are still undamaged, changing temperature levels and shifts in the soil can move them, triggering breaks and leaks.
Tree roots might turn into pipelines, triggering them to break. And in some cases, pipes are made from inferior material, causing corrosion and failure.
Regardless of the cause, a leak must be repaired. If it’s left too long, not only will your water expense spike, but, you may sustain damage to your home and residential or commercial property.
What are the indications you have a water leakage? Look for these warnings:
- Water Pooling Around Your Home
If you see a trickle, look next to and around your driveway for proof of pooling water. Water will flow to the lowest point in its path, so check for puddles and damp spots in low-lying areas. The problem may be because of corroded or burst pipes or, in a worst-case circumstance, a damaged water pipe. The water main is a large pipeline that connects to a service pipe. It’s the primary source of water for your home and property. Water pipe leakages can rapidly become substantial hassles, and it’s best to call a plumber if you presume yours is broken. - Spiking Water Expenses
Often, there’s not much physical evidence of a water leak. Your water costs may reveal that there’s a problem. Take a look at your last couple of water expenses and look for any cost spikes in your water bill. It may show a spike from one month to the next or a slower increase in time. If you have not been drinking additional water, utilizing your washing device or dishwasher more than normal, or irrigating your landscape more often, this may indicate a water leak. - Reducing Water Pressure
When a water leakage starts, you may discover a loss of water pressure in your house. Test and check your water pressure with a gauge or ask your utility or a plumber to come to examine the pressure for you. For the most part, the home’s water pressure ought to check out between 40 to 50 psi. Anything under this may indicate a leak. - Hissing or Rumbling Sounds
The water main enters your home listed below the ground, usually in a crawl space or basement. Head down and listen for any uncommon noises, such as rumbling or hissing. You’ll want to listen when the water isn’t being used. If you hear a sound, you may have a leak.
What are the steps or tools to detect a water leak outside?
If you think you have a water leak but just aren’t sure, take these steps:
- Make sure no water is currently being used in the home
- Shut off your water at the main valve after it enters your home (usually in a utility room, basement, or crawl space)
- Note your numerical usage at your water meter on the road, then return in an hour to check if it’s increased
If the water meter increases during this period, you most likely have water leakage.
How Do I Find a Leakage Under Concrete?
Finding a leakage under concrete isn’t basic. It’s not normally a job that can be done yourself.
You’ll likely need to contact a plumber to determine the leakage. In some cases, they’ll have leak detection tools that use acoustic and thermal technology to find the source of the water leak.

How Do I Fix Water Pipes Under My Driveway?
When a pipeline bursts under a driveway, repair work will typically include excavation. In such cases, the concrete piece needs to be broken and the underlying pipeline fixed or replaced. The concrete is then poured again to be repaired.
Alternatively, the underground pipes may be re-routed above ground. That way, the concrete can stay undamaged.
Often the leaking pipe can be “re-lined.” This includes pushing a liner through the existing pipe; made from epoxy, the liner then solidifies, sealing any cracks and leaks.
South End Plumbing specializes in leak repair, so remember, we are just a click away. We also specialize in video sewer line inspection – give us a call! South End Plumbing is one of the only companies that will give you a free estimate. Call us at 704-919-1722 or fill out the form online to schedule a visit.