Water Main Break Repairs

When it comes to water main break repairs, you want an immediate response from a reliable, experienced contractor. The professional plumbers at Michael J. Messick Plumbing have more than 30 years of experience with all types of plumbing issues, including water main break repairs. Our technicians pride themselves in their ability to diagnose and repair problems promptly and efficiently, and our trucks are outfitted with a large selection of parts and equipment to provide quick remedies.

To minimize the destruction that can result from a water main break, call Michael J. Messick Plumbing at the first sign of a problem. When it comes to plumbing emergencies, few things are as challenging and urgent as a water main break. This unexpected catastrophe can disrupt your daily life, damage property, and lead to significant water loss.

A water main is the principal line in the water supply system that delivers water to the service lines connected to your home or business. When this line cracks or leaks, a water main break repair is required to minimize the resulting damage and restore water to nearby properties. Water main breaks can be extremely disruptive, causing interruption of services, damage to nearby properties, road closures, and possible flooding.

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What is a Water Main Break?

A water main break refers to the rupture or damage to a large underground pipe that carries potable water from a treatment plant to homes, businesses, and other structures. These water mains are typically made of materials like cast iron, PVC, or ductile iron. When a break occurs, it can lead to substantial water loss and property damage.

Causes of Water Main Breaks

Corrosion: Over time, pipes can corrode, particularly if they are made of metal. Corrosion weakens the pipe's structure and can lead to ruptures.
Freezing Temperatures: Water mains can break due to freezing and expansion of the water within the pipes.
Ground Shifting: Earthquakes or ground movement can stress and damage water mains.
Aging Infrastructure: Aging water systems are more susceptible to breaks.
External Factors: Construction work, nearby excavation, or accidental damage from other activities can cause water main breaks.

Signs of a Water Main Break

Loss of Water Pressure: A sudden drop in water pressure throughout your home can be a sign of a water main break.
Water Puddles or Sinkholes: If you notice water pooling in your yard or the formation of sinkholes, it may indicate a break.
Discolored Water: Dirty or rusty water flowing from your taps can be a sign of a water main break, as it may pull sediment into the water supply.
Unusual Water Bills: A significant increase in your water bills without a corresponding change in water usage could be an indicator.
Noise: Sometimes, a faint sound of rushing water can be heard near the site of a break.

Steps to Take When You Suspect a Water Main Break

Confirm the Issue: If you suspect a water main break, contact your local water utility provider and report the issue. They can confirm the problem and, if necessary, shut off the water supply to prevent further damage.
Shut Off the Water: Locate your main water shut-off valve and turn it off to prevent further water from entering the broken line. If you're unsure about the location of your main shut-off valve, contact us for assistance.
Call Messick Plumbing: Hiring a professional plumber with experience in water main repairs is crucial. We can assess the damage, locate the break, and recommend the best repair strategy.
Temporary Repairs: Finding and isolating the source of a break in an underground water main line requires experience and specialized tools. In some cases, we may perform a temporary patch to stop the immediate water flow and allow time for planning a permanent fix. Our technicians will determine the extent of the damage and recommend either repairing the existing pipe or replacing the damaged section with new piping.
Permanent Repairs: Because there are so many contributing factors, each break is unique. Repairs can take anywhere from several hours to several days to complete and may involve excavation and careful planning.