Although most professionals will be called when a Water Main Repair in Arlington VA job is required. It’s a good idea to understand just what is involved when a water main is repaired. First, the water main is a pipe that runs from the water meter located outside your house into the base or foundation of the house. The water main pipe is made out of copper. The pipe runs under the house and is connected to several lines that provide water flow in the house. The lines and the pipe can become worn out due to age or damage. They can also freeze up due to cold water. When this happens, the pipe will burst and water flow becomes disrupted.
The first thing to address when working with a Water Main Repair in Arlington VA is to search for the leak. This is done by checking the ground for excess water or a saturated ground. Sometimes it will be pretty obvious a water main broke because water will flow out into the streets, causing a small flood situation in that area. Contact the water department in your area if you see a gush of water flowing out in the middle of the street. To repair a minor water main break, turn off the water to the main or the pipe. Be sure the dirt has been removed from around the pipe.
Cut the damaged section of the copper pipe with a tool called a tubing cutter. Remove a couple of inches from each direction of the pipe. With sandpaper, wax the ends of the water main after you have the cut the edges. Place a coupling on each end after you polish them and insert the polished ends into the couplings to redo the water main. Turn the water back on and let the faucet run water until it is smooth. Be sure to check for any leaks. Since most people do not know how to repair a water main break, there are several repairmen or contractors to contact. Visit the website of each one to see what they offer. If the water main break, be sure to contact your local water department first to see what you need to do.
