How Much Does Water Line Installation Cost?
If you are building a new home, setting up all of the utilities, like water line installation, is one of the earliest steps you'll perform. Connecting to the city's water line is essential in most areas of the country. Due to this, you need to have a firm understanding of what it is likely going to cost you. This way, you can plan ahead before dealing with the city or other sources of water lines.
Cost Breakdown For Water Line Installation
Here are the main variables to keep in mind when considering the cost to install a water line:
- pipe material
- permit application
- labor
Pipe Material
There are different kinds of pipe material to consider, although it often depends on where you live. You want to avoid pipes freezing, so specially insulated pipes are required. PVC and copper are other options for when freezing pipes really isn't a problem. Usually, the colder areas of the country you live in, the more it is going to cost you.
There are various piping materials and widths available which can affect your overall cost. The most commonly used material is copper piping. On an average, this will usually cost $10 - $20 per ft. PVC piping is also popular, but has a much lower quality and naturally costs less. Expect to spend between $3 - $4 per ft.
Permit Application
Before you begin, you'll need to apply for a permit. The permit is going to vary from city to city. It may also vary based on the distance in feet you need (this is where living hundreds of feet away from the city connection can cost you). Usually, you'll spend just a $150 to $200 for a 200 ft permit, in some situations, longer main line permits may exceed $1,500.
Your contractor can help you determine this cost to install a water line ahead of time and should assist with any permit applications.
Labor
The average labor rate for plumbers varies by location, but $50 - $60 per hour is generally what is charged. Though, some areas have hourly rates as high as $80 - $150 an hour. In some cases, completing the job can take up to 2 days which is 16 hours of labor. This lengthy installation could set you back $800 - $2,400 on labor costs.
If you need to hire excavation machinery to dig trenches, expect to spend around $200 an hour.
When it comes to connecting to the city and a new water line installation, most homes usually cost around the same average. While there are some variations, the size of the property doesn't matter as much as you might think. To avoid being overcharged, compare at least 3 quotes from reputable contractors in your area.
How Much Does It Cost To Install a Water Line?
A new water line installation is a must for any new home. However, you also need to know what it is likely going to cost you to avoid being overcharged. By looking at these different variables, you'll have a better understanding of the cost of a water line installation.
Based on the type of material used and the amount required, you're likely to spend over the $1,500 mark on copper piping. While it can drop lower, even down to around $1,000, this would cover a PVC pipe water line installation. Working on a general, national average, you could spend around $2,000 on a typical new copper pipe water line installation.
If you're a good way away from the water main connection, a copper water line installation with multiple extras can cost closer to $4,000. Although, again, it will depend on a few different factors.
Although it is possible to install a water main line yourself, we highly recommend you hire a professional. This will save you a lot of time, provide peace of mind, and should anything go wrong, you will have a warranty of sorts for the services rendered. Remember to compare quotes beforehand so you don't get ripped off, and also check references for a quality plumbing service for your new water line installation.
Find Trusted Local Pros For Your Water Line Installation
With this in mind, you can now enter your home zip code in the space provided below and get connected with the best local contractors in your area. This offer is 100% FREE and there's absolutely no obligation to purchase, hire, or sign any contracts.
HomesAce will connect you with top-rated professionals in your area for a quote tailored to your specific needs and it's also a great way to see what's possible given your budget.
