cost - leak on main water line and changing valve

sandrashand

I have a small leak on my main water line going to the meter in front of my house....what cost should I expect for fixing that?

Also, the plumber indicated that it would be better to have a ball valve instead of a gate valve for the main water valve to the house, but he wants $375 to change it which seems way too high.

What should I expect as a cost?

Thanks!!!

broox

Where are you? How long is the run of pipe? Is he going to just repair the leak or replace the whole pipe? What material is the existing pipe? How deep is the existing water service?

Jackofall1

I would be careful using a ball valve, if not exercised regularly, ball valves, especially lower end ones, will seize, I believe this is why gate valves are used, they are almost indestructable.

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fireguy

You are right, that price is way out of line. I suggest you hire someone from Craig's list.

sandrashand

I am in Houston, texas and he is going to replace a small section with pvc piping...he wanted to change the valve going to the water meter, but I read online that usually the city is responsible for both valves on either side of the meter....he wanted $569

As for the valve on the main water line at the house, he would just change the valve from gate to ball...for this he wanted 375$

LateralConcepts

No offense, but I think you're backwards on your thinking. Ball valves have far fewer problems, leaks, etc.

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Bondo

Ayuh,... That's been my experince too....

I pretty much use nothing but ball-valves anymore...

Jackofall1

None taken, but I have seen process ball valves especially inexpensive ones freeze up because of lack of use, where a gate valve can usually be persuaded to move.

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sandrashand

I still am looking for views on the cost issue

kenmac

It's hard to say if his prices are out of line. He's seen the job we have not. In my area you could call 5 plumbers & get 5 different prices. If I didn't like his price I would call someone for a 2 nd opinion

plumberinlaw

this is a do it yourself forum, why don't you do it yourself? 1. call city, have water shut off 2. remove old valve. 3. Install new valve (Ball Valve). 4. Call city have water turned on. The details depend upon your piping i.e. copper, lead, cpvc etc.

COLDIRON

Yeah in law that's the ticket, DIY save a bundle just pay for the material.

Know It ALL

Sandra, is there a problem with your old valve? Just leave it there. I'm thinking that in Houston you service (main) line should not be deeper that 8-10 inches. With a the proper parts this is a one hour job.

samps70

my ? is if it is in front of the meter it should be the water dept. to fix this please let me know good luck & God bless.