What Is a Water Line and Why Is It Important
A water line is the primary pipe that delivers clean water from the municipal supply to your home. If it leaks or breaks, it can cause flooding, low water pressure, and costly damage.
Its role is to ensure that you have sufficient clean water available to flush a toilet, wash your dishes or wash your food before eating it. In addition to low water pressure, signs of a water line break include higher water bills and discolored water.
How Do I Know If My Water Line Needs Repair or Replacement?
You may need a water line repair if you notice pooling water, high water bills, or low pressure. Replacement is needed if the line is old, made of lead or galvanized steel, or repeatedly leaks.
Strange noises from a water line or puddles outside of your home may also be signs that your home’s water line needs to be repaired or replaced.
Decreased pressure may be indicative of a clog while discolored water may be caused by buildup inside of the pipe.
Depending on where the pipe is located, you may see cracks or other signs of damage when looking at it. Call a professional if you can’t get access to the pipe or there is no obvious damage on the exterior.
Repair vs Replace: Which Is Better for a Water Line?
Repair makes sense for newer copper lines with isolated leaks. Replacement is the best option if the pipe is old, unsafe material, or near the end of its lifespan.
Generally speaking, you typically want to repair newer pipes or pipes that incur minor to moderate damage. This is because repairs are less expensive and can restore a quality pipe to like new condition.
However, new pipes may be ideal if existing ones are old or made from materials that might lead to hard water or other safety hazards.
How Much Does Water Line Repair Cost?
On average, water line repair costs $1,000–$3,500, while full replacement ranges from $3,000–$10,000 depending on pipe length, material, and permits.
There are a number of factors that determine the cost to repair a water main. These factors include your location, the scope of the job and the type of materials that you want or need to use.
The average cost for this type of project is just over $1,700. A replacement will cost as much as $8,000 depending on where you live.
What Is the Water Line Repair Process?
The water main repair process includes permit approval, excavation, shutting off water, replacing damaged sections, inspection, and backfilling.
Step 1: Confirm leak and get permits
A professional can locate the leak and help get necessary permits to excavate and replace your pipes properly.
Step 2: Excavation & shutting off city water connection
Shutting off the water prior to excavating minimizes the risk of a massive flood on your property. It also ensures that you don’t have to pay for water that you won’t use.
Step 3: Pipe repair or replacement with approved materials
You’ll likely opt for PEX or PVC piping to replace older copper pipes. This is because they tend to last longer and are suitable in various climates.
Step 4: City/municipal inspection
Local authorities will need to ensure that the pipes were installed properly by a professional. They will also want to see that all applicable codes were followed before you can fill the exposed ground.
Step 5: Backfill and site restoration
After getting approval, you can now fill in the exposed area and restore it for use by your family or others on your property.
DIY Water Main Repair vs Hiring a Professional
Ideally, you’ll hire a professional to do the job since you’ll need permits and because of the highly technical nature of the work. Generally speaking, hiring someone to do the work can save money in the long run as a professional is less likely to make mistakes that can lead to doing the job twice.
How to Prevent Future Water Line Problems
The best way to prevent future issues is to engage in basic preventative maintenance. For instance, you can monitor your water bills or ensure that trees are kept away from pipes so that roots can’t grow into them. Regular inspections can also reduce the risk of future issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a water main last?
A properly installed and maintained water line can last several decades. This also assumes that the ground doesn’t shift or that trees aren’t planted near the line after it is installed.
Does homeowners insurance cover water main breaks?
A typical homeowners insurance policy does not cover damage caused by a water main break. However, you can add service line coverage or a similar add-on to ensure that you’re protected.
How fast can a water line repair be done?
Minor repairs can usually be done in a few hours. However, more significant repairs that need specialized equipment may take multiple days to complete.
What material is best for water service lines today?
Ideally, you’ll use PEX or PVC pipe to ensure that you get the most value for your money. However, it may still be possible to use copper pipes without running afoul of building codes.
Let Us Be Your Water Line Repair Professionals
Generally speaking, repairs are best when damage is minor, easy to fix and on pipes that aren’t close to the end of their useful lives. Otherwise, a full replacement may be the most economical decision in the long-term.
Regardless of what you choose, give the team at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing a call to schedule an inspection and receive a free quote. We are the punctual plumbers who serve Birmingham, AL and surrounding areas.