What is a common cause of water main breaks?

Temperature changes leading to ground movement is a common cause of water main breaks. As temperatures fluctuate, especially during transitions between seasons, the ground can expand and contract. This movement creates stress on the water main, particularly in areas where the soil has experienced significant changes in moisture content. When the pressure becomes too great for the pipes to handle, they may crack or break, leading to leaks or ruptures.

In many regions, especially those with extreme seasonal temperature variations, this phenomenon can occur frequently. This highlights the importance of considering environmental factors in water main design and maintenance practices, as well as the need for careful monitoring during periods of temperature change to preemptively address potential failures.