
How to Repair a Broken Black Plastic Main Water Line
- Step 1. Locate the main water shut-off valve and turn off the water to the entire building. This will eliminate water...
- Step 2. Remove any standing water from the area where the crack in the pipe is located. For most in-home repairs, this...
- Step 3. Cut the section of cracked pipe from the HDPE tubing with a hacksaw...
How much does it cost to repair a water line?
Water Main Break Repair Cost. Repairing a broken section of your water main line averages $400 to $2,000. The price is at the lower end of the range if the breakage is small and easy to access. However, costs can be higher if the breakage is large and in an inaccessible area.
How much to replace water main line?
New Water Main Cost by Material
- PVC Water Main Pipe Cost. PVC piping costs between $0.50 and $5 a linear foot. ...
- Polyethylene Water Main Cost. The cost of a polyethylene 1 water main line is $2 to $5 a linear foot. ...
- Cast Iron Water Main Cost. ...
- Fiberglass Water Pipe Cost. ...
- Brass Water Pipe Cost. ...
- Copper Main Water Line Cost. ...
How to repair a broken underground water line?
Part 3 Part 3 of 3: Fixing the Broken Line
- Saw off a 4 in (10 cm) section of pipe at the leak. You need to remove a large enough section to fit your slip coupling into the pipe.
- Place a band clamp on each end of the pipe. A band clamp is a strap of metal that forms a loop that you can tighten.
- Insert a slip coupling into the pipe. ...
- Tighten both clamps to seal the line. ...
How much does it cost to repair a water pipe?
The water damage can only get worse, which adds to the bottom line of fixing this leak. Pipe bursting repair costs $100 to $200 per foot with most spending between $400 and $1,500 total. Water damage clean up and repair may add $1,000 to $2,000 in costs depending on the extent.

How do I fix a leaky main water line?
Turn off the water supply to the leaking pipes and clean the area around the hole to be patched. Use a metal file to smooth any sharp edges that might cut through the patch. Apply the patch and repair clamp so it evenly overlaps the damaged section of pipe. Tighten the clamps to seal the leak.
How much does it cost to fix a cut water line?
Main Water Line Repair Cost Repairing your home's main water service line costs $934 on average. You'll typically spend between $337 and $1,533. You'll typically pay $70 to $120 per hour plus materials for most water line repairs. Materials include new sections of pipe, valves and bushings.
How do you fix a PVC main water line?
3:235:39How To Repair a Broken PVC Water Main - DIY! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipHot some up blue glue wonder why it was named Christy's inventor I gave it a lease 15 minutes to putMoreHot some up blue glue wonder why it was named Christy's inventor I gave it a lease 15 minutes to put the glue dry good and hard compression coupler now goes.
Can you patch a water line?
1:443:23Do-it-Yourself : Quick Water Pipe Repairs - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnother easy way to repair a leaking water pipe is with a pipe repair kit like one of these. JustMoreAnother easy way to repair a leaking water pipe is with a pipe repair kit like one of these. Just follow the manufacturer's instructions that come with your kit. Basically.
How long does it take to fix a water line break?
between four to eight hoursWater mains are generally repaired and completed between four to eight hours. One factor that may delay the repair is location of the break. A water main that is buried deep inside the earth or under another utility will take much longer.
How do you replace water lines under a driveway?
0:101:25How to Replace Irrigation Pipe Under Driveway - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipGo slow go easy. If you feel a hesitation. Or you feel it not wanted to pull through easily stopMoreGo slow go easy. If you feel a hesitation. Or you feel it not wanted to pull through easily stop immediately don't force it because your coupler you can pull your coupler. Right off of the pipe.
Can you repair a cracked PVC pipe?
Epoxy is one of the most commonly used solutions for repairing cracked PVC pipes, especially for homes with older pipes. It comes in both putty and liquid forms, and it can be used to temporarily repair leaks on PVC and its joints.
How do you fix a leaky PVC pipe without replacing it?
1. Fiberglass Resin Tape or Cloth. If you're looking for a temporary repair for a leaking PVC pipe, fiberglass resin tape can slow the damage. The fiberglass tape makes repair simple by using a water-activated resin that hardens around the pipe and slows the leaking.
What material is used for water main?
The most common materials for the manufacture of water main pipes and fittings are metal (cast iron, ductile iron, steel, and copper), clay and concrete pipe (vitrified clay, reinforced concrete, and asbestos cement), and plastics (PVCs, HDPE, and fiberglass).
Does Flex Seal work on water pipes?
Does Flex Seal Work On Water Pipes? Flex Tape, which appears on As Seen on TV, is intended for use on all types of surfaces, wet and dry.
How do you find a leak in an underground water line?
Look at your water meter for the leak indicator, which is often a small red, white, or blue triangle. The indicator spins when the house is using water. Because you shut off all water to the home, the triangle should be still. If it's spinning, you have a leak underground.
How do you fix an underground copper water pipe?
3:385:58How To Repair An Underground Copper Pipe Leak In Your Front YardYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd deeper it you want a very very clean surface in there it creates a much better flow. And it's upMoreAnd deeper it you want a very very clean surface in there it creates a much better flow. And it's up to code so we're gonna go ahead and take that next step in the soldering. Process.
How do you replace water lines in a house?
0:0211:12Water Main Replacement - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd that's 36 inches so we made it 36 inches deep the entire way after you have your trench dug downMoreAnd that's 36 inches so we made it 36 inches deep the entire way after you have your trench dug down to below the frost line the next thing you need to do is level out your ditch.
How much does it cost to replace a well pipe?
Well Pump Replacement Cost Breakdown Standard well pump replacement costs fall into three categories: Labor: Typically $300–$500 for a standard job. The pump: Between $100–$4,000 depending on pump type. Materials: Extra materials such as replacement pipes start at around $200.
What is the main water line?
A water main is the pipe that delivers clean water to your home from your municipal water utility. The water main connects to your private water service line, which is typically located below ground on your private property.
How much does it cost to replace a refrigerator water line?
A typical water line costs between $65 and $170 to run.
How much does it cost to repair a water main?
With that said, the typical price range for a repair on a line of 2″ or smaller is between $2,800.00 and $3,800.00. Manhattan repair work (like everything in Manhattan) will cost more, and is priced on a case-by-case basis.
How to find out how old your water line is?
A 2nd reliable way to find out the age of your line is by requesting DEP tap records. NYC DEP water records will indicate the age, size, and location of your line. The DEP records will also indicate the size of your tap connection to the city water main. Lastly, DEP records frequently indicate if the line was ever repaired or replaced in the past.
How to tell if water line is galvanized?
Since galvanized water pipe tends to corrode, many times only a visual inspection is needed to tell if your water line is galvanized. However looks can be deceiving. In many cases the pipe may be painted, or covered with dirt or discolored. A sure fire way to know if your water line is galvanized is to place a magnet on it. If the magnet sticks to the pipe, your line is indeed galvanized.
How old is a water main?
It is generally accepted that (regardless of the material) water services lines last about 50 years or so. Therefore a key determining factor on whether to do a water main repair or full replacement is finding out the age of your line. Right off the bat, if your line is lead, it is well over 50 years old. Even if your line is K copper, it can be quite old. Copper water tubing has been used as a material for well over 50 years. So if you have a copper line, some steps have to be taken to figure out how old it is.
What size water line for fire protection?
A water line for fire protection, or larger than 2″, requires a DEP inspection.
What is a lead water line?
Lead water lines are a dull silver color. If you scrape them with a coin, it will appear shiny silver. Lead is also a very soft metal, it is easy to make an impression on it, or bend it. Lastly, at the point where a lead water line connects to brass or copper, there will be an oval shaped wipe joint. The wipe joint is usually just before your main control valve in your basement.
Is galvanized water line magnetic?
Of all water line materials, galvanized is the only one that is magnetic. Lead, copper, and even brass water lines are not magnetic. As previously stated, a water main repair on a galvanized line is not allowed in NYC.
How to stop water from leaking from a water line?
Step 1. Locate the main water shut-off valve and turn off the water to the entire building. This will eliminate water leaking from the break in the water line. In most cases, you will locate the shut-off valve where the waterline enters the home. Usually this is in the basement.
What is a cracked HDPE water line?
HDPE coupler. Water or mineral spirits. Rag. A cracked black plastic HDPE (high-density polyethylene) water main can create serious water damage in or around your home. The quicker you get to the cracked line and repair it, the less water will soak into your walls or floor.
How to connect a pipe to a coupler?
Connect the coupler to one end of the pipe. In some cases, you do this simply by pressing the pipe into the coupler. In other cases, you must slide the pipe into the coupler and then turn the coupler with a pair of pliers to tighten it around the pipe. Follow the directions supplied with the specific coupler you purchase.
How to clean grease off plastic pipe?
Clean the inside and the outside of the pipe near the ends where you will attach the coupler. You can use water and a rag or you can use mineral spirits and a rag. Mineral spirits will remove any grease found on the plastic surface.
How to secure a pipe to a second piece of pipe?
Lift up on the couple and then lift up on the second piece of pipe. Slide the pipe into the coupler and secure it in the same manner as you secured the coupler to the other piece of pipe.
How to remove burred plastic from HDPE pipe?
Cut the section of cracked pipe from the HDPE tubing with a hacksaw or reciprocating saw. Remove the burred plastic left around the edge of the pipe with a utility knife. Burring happens when you cut the plastic with a saw. You can deburr it by running the sharp edge of the knife around the inside and outside edges of the pipe.
What is a cracked water line?
A cracked or severed underground water line is a vexing problem that few homeowners ever want to face. Much like a broken sewer pipe, a broken underground water line appears that it might be an expensive, time-consuming project that upsets your entire life. But it doesn't have to be that way.
How to tell if you have a leak in your water line?
Determine If You Have a Leak. Some common indicators of a leak in your underground water line include: Unexplained increase in municipal water bills. Water meter indicator is spinning even though no water in or around the house is turned on. Mushy, soft spots in yard.
How far below ground level is water line?
Unlike sewer lines, which can run several feet below ground-level, water service lines typically are located just below your area's freeze line: from 1 foot to 3 feet below ground-level.
How to locate a leak in a house?
One way to do this is by running a sightline from your home's street-side water meter to the point where the water enters your home.
How long has Lee been remodeling?
Lee has over two decades of hands-on experience remodeling, fixing, and improving homes, and has been providing home improvement advice for over 12 years.
Can you use a shut off tool on a water valve?
It is preferable to use a dedicated water/gas shut-off tool. If you do not have one, you can fit an adjustable wrench over the valve and turn the wrench with a screwdriver inserted into the back off the wrench.
Can you repair an underground water line?
But it doesn't have to be that way. By separating this project into manageable steps, you can repair your underground water line by yourself, or at least take on some parts of it, thus reducing the project's overall cost. Repairing an underground water line is often less arduous than repairing a sewer line since the line is located closer to ground level. Plus, the digging can be done by hand, eliminating the need for hiring an expensive compact excavator.
How to tell if a water line is leaking?
Only in extreme cases, such as a ruptured service line or the actual tap connection becoming dislodged from the city main, will there be a drop in pressure. Typically the first sign of a leak is the sound of running water, or a humming sound in the pipes. A leak will create a vibrating sound on your pipes and frequently be audible long before ...
What to call if water main breaks?
Call 311 for verification. Many people are reluctant to notify the authorities when they suspect a water main break or leak. However the NYC DEP will respond in a timely and professional manner when an inquiry is made through the 311 system regarding a line leak. When speaking to the 311 operator of the DEP it is important to clearly state ...
How to check if a toilet is running?
A simple way to check for a running toilet is to close the valve under the toilet and see if the water meter stops moving. Another simple way to check for a running toilet is to place some food or clothing dye inside the toilet tank. Then see if the dye appears inside the bowl itself after a few minutes. Another common source of a water leak inside ...
What is Balkan water service?
Balkan Sewer And Water Main Service is the largest house sewer & water service line replacement company in NYC. Balkan is licensed, bonded, and fully insured. As a family run business in continuous operation for well over 60 years, a Balkan 10 year unconditional guarantee on replacements means that they continue to stand by their work years after the installation has been completed. Being expertly equipped from a 48,000 square foot facility, having dozens of trucks, heavy moving equipment, backhoes and pneumatics ensures prompt and professional service every time. Having a highly trained, skilled, and dedicated team ensures long lasting installations.
What does it mean when you hear water running?
If you hear the sound of running water, unfortunately you have a water main leak on the service line to the street. You will in fact require a water main repair, or a full replacement. If there is no sound on the line after closing the main valve, and draining your plumbing system, then the leak is not on your main water line to the street.
What does it mean when the water meter stops moving?
If all the dials on the meter completely stop moving that means that there is no longer any water running through the meter. The 2nd step to take is to drain out the house plumbing. This ensures that water is not leaking inside the house from another source, such as a toilet, or an underground pipe. Typical water meter.
Where does water leak in a house?
Another common source of a water leak inside the house that may not be visible is from piping that runs under a slab or basement floor. That is why it is so important to drain out the house plumbing and ‘sound out’ the pipes before jumping to a conclusion.
How to tell if water line is broken?
Sometimes, a leak or break in the water has no obvious signs. Other times, it can be dramatic. Homeowners need to be prudent and watch for signs, great or small, which could indicate the water main line needs repair. There are many possible indicators of this, from changes in pressure to rusty-colored water coming out of your faucets. Here are a few of the most common signs your water main has broken: 1 A sudden increase in your water bill. 2 Wet spots or flooding in your yard. 3 The sound of water running when all the taps are turned off. 4 A vibrating sound in your pipes when the water is shut off. 5 A drop in water pressure. 6 Discolored water. 7 The growth of mold or mildew in your home’s lower levels. 8 Water in your home’s lower levels.
How much does it cost to fix a water main leak?
Repairing a leaking water main ranges from $300 to $3,000. This wide price range is because leaks can have many causes, and some are easier to fix than others. It might be caused by a leaky valve, which is easy to repair, or a corroded and broken piece of pipe that might be difficult to access and require heavy labor to fix.
What is the least expensive way to repair a pipe?
Small leaks and breaks and short sections of pipe with an issue cost the least to repair. If the pipe has been repaired before, the damage is in more than one section, the pipes are old, or if the cost of the repair is greater than 50% of the cost of a replacement, the recommended strategy is to completely replace the pipe. This means a much higher bill than a small crack that can be soldered shut.
Why is my water line rusty?
Have a professional diagnose this issue because there are several possible causes. Sediment or contamination is likely getting into your water through a crack in the pipe or that the pipes are rusty. However, the main line might not be affected. It might just be one pipe in your house.
How much does it cost to replace a trenchless water line?
Trenchless water line replacement costs between $1,500 and $4,000. This can be a very convenient and cost-efficient method for dealing with main water line repairs. Usually when the line needs to be fixed, a lot of work needs to be done. Parts of your property may need to be dug up, and you have to worry about re-landscaping later. Trenchless water line replacement is an alternative method that does not involve digging, saving you money and inconvenience and the repairman extra work.
What are the warning signs of a water line?
Many issues might arise with your water line, and you may notice warning signs and red flags. You see spot discolored water coming out of your faucets or that your home’s water pressure seems to have taken a sudden drop. When issues like this arise, call in the professionals to diagnose the problem and fix it before it becomes serious. The table below shows common water main problems and average repair costs for each.
What to do if water shut off valve is leaking?
If your main water shut-off valve is leaking, it must be repaired or replaced. For minor leaks, the existing valve may need tightening or readjustment to stop water from dripping out. In other cases, the valve might be damaged beyond repair and need replacing, which is a longer and more costly job.
