Water leaks occurring underground and beneath concrete structures are among the most difficult to repair, often requiring complex excavation and restoration. We recently executed a critical repair project in Tucson, AZ, where a homeowner was experiencing a significant leak upstream of their water meter, resulting in water waste and potential foundation issues.
The Challenge: A Leak Under Concrete
The problem was identified as a leak in the existing water line, specifically located upstream of the water meter and situated underneath the concrete sidewalk. Further inspection revealed the pipe was made of PVC, a material prone to failure, especially when subjected to the stress of being buried beneath heavy structures. The homeowner, recognizing the structural risk and the cost of wasted water, decided to replace the entire section of the line running beneath the sidewalk and driveway, a distance of approximately 25 feet.
The Solution: Excavation, Upgrades, and PEX Installation
Our team approached this project with a multi-step plan focused on durability, control, and restoration:
- Careful Excavation: The most labor-intensive step was opening the cement sidewalk and driveway to gain necessary access to the faulty line. This was done meticulously to allow for a clean replacement and successful restoration later.
- Durable Pipe Installation: The old PVC line was replaced with a 1-inch PEX pipe. PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is a flexible, highly durable, and corrosion-resistant material that is ideal for underground service lines, offering superior resistance to cracking and freezing compared to older materials like PVC or rigid copper.
- Enhanced System Control: Recognizing the need for immediate system control, we installed a new emergency water shutoff near the meter. This addition is vital for the homeowner to quickly stop water flow in case of future internal plumbing emergencies.
- Pressure Regulation: Crucially, we also installed a water pressure control device. High water pressure can stress a home's entire plumbing system, leading to premature failure of fixtures, appliances, and pipes. This device was added to regulate the incoming water supply to a safe, controlled level, protecting the home's interior plumbing infrastructure.
Restoration and Finalization
After the new line and control devices were securely in place and thoroughly tested for leaks, the final phase involved returning the area to its original state:
- We backfilled the trench and compacted the soil to prevent settling.
- The removed sections of the driveway and walkway were re-cemented by our concrete specialists, matching the existing surfaces as closely as possible.
- Finally, any disturbed landscaping was reset, and the water was fully restored to the home.
This comprehensive repair ensured the homeowner received a durable, modern water service line with the added benefit of critical pressure regulation, safeguarding their home for years to come.
Are you concerned about a leak near your water meter or experiencing high water pressure in your Tucson, AZ home? We specialize in underground line replacement and pressure control installations.
