A well-performing water line is probably one of the essential features of your home. It provides clean water to your entire house, allowing you to shower, wash clothes and dishes, and water your lawn, but when do you need a water line replacement?
As water lines age, like anything in your home, they become vulnerable to aging, temperature changes in the weather, ground movement, mineral buildup, and even pressure under parking areas.
And like anything else, ignoring these problems only makes them worse and more costly. Unfortunately, plumbing problems do not go away on their own. Left unattended, they may even cause damage to your home.
You May Have A Water Line Issue If
* Discolored water
* Reduced water pressure
* Puddles/wet spots in your lawn not attributable to rain or watering
* Significant increase in your monthly water bill
* Sound of running water, especially at night or when you are not using water at all
What Is A Water Line?
All residential plumbing systems have two water lines… one to your house and one away from your house. Today we are talking about the line to your house from the public water supply. This line also splits in most homes at/near your water heater, so you get both hot and cold water in your home.
Most leaks occur in the mainline, resulting in structural damage to your walls and floors, including mold and mildew.
Many DIY types can handle basic plumbing issues in a home, like clearing a clogged drain or backed-up toilet. However, a water line replacement requires more skill and knowledge.
When you notice the problem right away, you may only need to repair the line. But, if your home is over 50 years old or you’ve experienced ongoing plumbing problems come up one after another, it may be time for a water line replacement.
Do You Need A Water Line Replacement?
Caught early, you may only need a repair, but let us help you determine the problem and the best approach to repairing it.
* Factors that you need to consider in making this decision include:
* Age of the existing waterline. The average lifespan of a water line is around 50 years.
* Material of the existing water line. Older homes may have lead pipes, which can present health hazards.
* Past repairs. Water lines with a history of previous issues are prone to further problems. A complete replacement is your best option in these cases.
* Damage. If there is a small crack, a repair might be all you need. If the line has burst, a replacement is likely necessary.
* Cost analysis. As a general rule, if the cost of repairing is 50% or more of the replacement cost, choose to replace the line. Materials are only about 20% of the total job.
We can assist you in making the right choice – whether you need a repair or a replacement. We will also do all the heavy work and deal with the local water offices to obtain permits, inspections, and certificates necessary to finish the job.
We can even use trenchless technology in some cases to ensure your water line replacement is done quickly and correctly with minimal expense. CONTACT us today.
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