The water main is the cornerstone of every plumbing system. It sends and receives the water from your well or city plumbing system. Damage in your water main can shut down the entire plumbing system in your home. Lodder Brothers Limited provides expert repairs to get your water flow back to normal as quickly as possible.
Our services extend to residents throughout Guelph and surrounding areas in Southern Ontario.
What Causes Water Main Problems?
Leaks are the most common problems affecting water mains. Leaks often occur in worn piping. They can cause your water to run poorly, increase your water bill, and even cause damage to the other pipes near your water main. Severe water main breaks can lead to flooding in your home.
In cold weather, your water main can freeze and break. As the water in the pipe freezes, it will expand. Frozen pipes will cause your water to immediately stop flowing and can only be repaired by warming the water main. This will cause the ice in the pipes to melt back to liquid. Unfortunately, this warming action results in your pipe expanding and contracting, which can also cause it to break. Avoid thawing your pipes on your own, and instead contact your plumbing technician for assistance.
While water main breaks are more likely to occur in the winter, they can also happen during the summer. Extreme heat can also cause the water in the pipes to expand and contract, leading to a damaged water main.
How Do You Repair a Water Main Break?
A water main break can't be plastered or spot repaired the way ordinary leaks can be repaired.
Replacing a broken water main system requires shutting off your water, digging up the water main, removing the pipe, and replacing it with a new one. Once the new line is set in place, we will inspect your system once more to make sure everything is working properly.
Signs You May Have a Water Main Issue
Identifying early signs of a water main problem can save you from extensive damage and costly repairs. Common indicators include a sudden increase in your water bill, discolored water, or unusually wet areas on your lawn that may indicate a leak underground.
Other signs to look for include a drop in water pressure or unusual sounds coming from your plumbing system. It's important to monitor these symptoms and contact a plumbing service if you notice any of them, as prompt action can prevent more serious issues from developing.
Preventative Measures for Water Main Maintenance
Preventing water main issues is often easier and more cost-effective than dealing with repairs. Regular maintenance checks and inspections can help identify potential problems before they escalate. Additionally, proper insulation of pipes in colder months can prevent freezing.
Consider scheduling routine professional assessments of your plumbing system. Simple actions, like maintaining a steady flow of water during extreme temperatures, can ensure the longevity and efficiency of your water main, ultimately avoiding inconvenient breaks.
