Express Sewer & Drain Blog

You've likely experienced the effects of a water main break in your area, whether directly or indirectly. Water mains play a subtle yet essential role in our everyday lives, delivering clean and potable (drinkable) water to our homes, schools, businesses, and public spaces.

In this article, we will dive into the lifecycle of a water main break, clarifying the reasons behind these disruptions and exploring the complicated process of addressing them.

What Causes Water Main Breaks?

Water main breaks can be caused by a variety of factors, with the most common being aging infrastructure and natural wear and tear. Over time, the materials used in water mains, such as cast iron or concrete, may deteriorate, making them vulnerable to cracks and fractures. Environmental elements, like shifting soil, freezing and thawing cycles, and corrosive soil conditions, can worsen this deterioration. 

Additionally, sudden changes in water pressure, often due to rapid valve adjustments or water hammer effects, can stress the pipes, potentially leading to a break. Excavation near water mains or accidental impacts during construction also pose a risk. Understanding these root causes is crucial for preventative maintenance and ensuring the reliability of our water supply systems.

Implications of a Water Main Break 

A water main break carries significant implications, affecting individuals, communities, and the environment. It leads to immediate water service disruptions, causing inconvenience and potential property damage, especially in flooded basements. 

Road closures and traffic congestion can happen, along with damage to infrastructure and increased emergency response costs for municipalities. This can ultimately lead to water health concerns, with potential contamination risks, requiring water use restrictions and boil advisories. Repairing the break can be quite costly, which is often passed on to consumers through water rate increases. 

The Water Main Break Timeline

The water main break timeline typically goes something like this:

1. Initial rupture due to factors like aging infrastructure.
2. Escaping water causes flooding and potential property damage.
3. Swift detection and response are crucial to minimize disruptions.
4. Repair crews are dispatched to isolate the damaged section.
5. Repairs involve excavation, pipe replacement, and infrastructure restoration.
6. Water service interruptions and boil water advisories may be necessary.
7. Successful repair concludes the incident, restoring water service.

Throughout this timeline, the implications and challenges associated with water main breaks are addressed, highlighting the importance of efficient and effective response procedures.

Don’t Wait to Repair Water Main Lines in Sacramento

When a water main breaks in Sacramento, Express Sewer & Drain is here to assist. Our dedication to safe and efficient plumbing repairs makes us the trusted source for any issues with water main lines in the area. Give us a call today to learn more about our services!