Category Archives: Project Highlight

  • 24
    Jun 20
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What is Heavy Construction?

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Heavy construction is a subset of the construction industry geared toward larger structures. Because of the amount of engineering and project management that goes into heavy construction, specialized equipment and highly experienced individuals are part of the successful completion of a project. In many cases, these are municipal and government projects. So how should companies and government entities plan for large-scale heavy construction? Read on to find out.

Heavy Construction Planning: The First Step of a Successful Project

Before starting any heavy construction project, planning is essential. This multistep process starts with a project initiation document or PID. This preliminary document estimates the cost of the project (budget), the necessary materials to complete the project, and how many workers are required. Without this document, construction firms cannot conduct a feasibility test of whether the project is profitable or doable.

EPS Inc. has been serving our municipal, commercial and residential clients for multiple decades. Our experience, manpower and equipment availability gives us the ability to be price when planning a heavy construction project. We are the Bay Area heavy construction company of choice for many municipality projects due to our commitment to quality and excellence.

Once the construction company drafts a PID, it moves on to more specific estimates of the resources required, as well as technical portions of the project. Using the PID, a more accurate and specific plan comes together, as well as a strategy to complete the project under these rubrics. Many times, construction software eases this complex step and crunches numbers to provide the information for a proposal or presentation.

Equipment and Manpower for Heavy Construction

Determining the equipment and manpower for a heavy construction project isn’t always easy. Volatility in economic conditions and other situations can cause variability. In this regard, estimates may change.

However, the initial step of project planning can provide a solid estimate for the amount of equipment and manpower. A formulaic approach can help determine this number, as well as past projects. The idea is that a company with more experience in municipal and large-scale construction projects is more apt to provide a concrete idea for these numbers.

In addition, heavy construction firms must make seemingly smaller decisions that have a huge impact on a project. This includes aspects such as:

  • Whether to lease, buy, or use already purchased equipment
  • What subcontractors to hire
  • Whether to hire temporary personnel to meet the demand of the project
  • Where to buy wholesale materials
  • Other logistical considerations

By determining these needs, a heavy construction project can move forward without any hiccups. In this regard, trade magazines and journals are a vital resource to limit the amount of overhead and get the best workers for the job. Experienced firms may already have a team of suppliers and workers assembled to limit the chances for sunk costs.

Beyond these vital aspects, heavy construction companies must also devote a portion of their efforts to contingency plans. Few projects of this scale will proceed without a hitch. Therefore, a contingency or emergency plan can prevent a bleeding of resources and cash flow.

By choosing a company that has the necessary manpower, machinery, and expertise to finish a heavy construction project, governmental organizations and private builders can avoid any headaches during the process. With a well-constructed building delivered on time and under budget, all parties can enjoy the result of planning and project management.

When you rely on our EPS team, you’re in good hands. From manpower to equipment availability and experience. We get the job done! Contact us with any heavy construction project you’re planning, and we’ll be glad to assist you from start to finish.

  • 16
    Apr 20
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Local Infrastructure and Municipal Underground Projects Continue During the Covid-19 Shelter in Place

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Businesses across the country have suspended their operations due to the Covid-19 outbreak, and many more have cut their staff to all but essential workers. However, local infrastructure and municipal underground projects can’t slow or stop as a result.

Residents of these areas need the infrastructure and underground utilities during shelter-in-place orders, and municipalities are forced to continue their workload in the face of danger and adversity. Thanks to the selfless work of these individuals and government planning, none of the essential services that people need will halt as a result of Covid-19.

Underground Sewer

Underground sewer systems are among the most important services to residents during the Covid-19 pandemic, especially as these services come under strain due to more usage. Fortunately, underground sewer repair and other projects will continue during the outbreak to ensure that these services continue uninterrupted.

Although there’s little evidence to support that Covid-19 can spread through sewer systems, protecting against sewage backups remains crucial. Many residents may find that a sewage overflow may cause problems, specifically because of the lack of cleaning supplies as a result of panic buying.

Therefore, municipal workers will continue to monitor sewer systems, build new lines when necessary, and conduct repairs. These projects will also follow all current mandates and safety procedures to keep workers and residents safe.

Utilities

Although utilities supply the power necessary to curb cabin fever and reduce boredom, they also play a vital role in the everyday lives of citizens, especially during the Covid-19 outbreak. Without gas, power, internet, and telephone lines, the ability for people to cook, work remotely, or contact family members and emergency services becomes compromised.

During the Covid-19 shelter-in-place requirement, municipal crews continue their normal routines. This will include the inspection of all above-ground and underground utility lines, as well as any repairs necessary due to weather, wear and tear, or any other type of issue. Like other businesses, these workers will apply social distancing guidelines and other protocols designed to minimize the spread of Covid-19 to coworkers or other members of the general public.

Emergency Pipe Replacements

Pipe repair and pipe replacement are two essential services that homeowners and renters need to survive and maintain their quality of life during the coronavirus pandemic. Without fully functioning pipes, water systems, and other utilities can be rendered useless. When pipes fail, it can create a catastrophic scenario, especially for customers who are confined to their home for the near future.

Municipalities understand the importance and maintenance of pipes. As a result, they continue to put crews to work, albeit with safety guidelines in place. Thanks to the efforts of these workers, everyone affected by Covid-19 can enjoy uninterrupted services and maintain their way of life as long as possible, despite the challenges posed by coronavirus.

Through planning and strict safety guidelines imposed by municipalities, residents can enjoy the services they need to make life easier during the Covid-19 pandemic. In these times of uncertainty, having these services will at least provide a bit of consolation and reassurance.

EPS Inc. has been a partner of Bay Area municipalities for multiple decades, we want to honor those that continue to serve during these difficult times facing our nation and are proud to support their efforts on municipal infrastructure projects whenever and wherever they need us.

  • 18
    Feb 20
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civil engineering contractor bay area

Why Is Civil Engineering More Complex?

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A civil engineering contractor provides a complex form of engineering for several reasons. Not only do civil engineers provide the transportation, utility infrastructure, and buildings that allow modern society to function, but they must also make it coexist with existing structures and nature.

With so much responsibility riding on the shoulders of civil engineering projects, it’s important to understand the various aspects that make it a complex and crucial part of all types of construction projects.

EPS Inc. has been providing civil engineering services and underground infrastructure support in the Bay Area for multiple decades. We rely on our experience, advanced equipment and professional staff to support the residential, commercial, and municipal sector in the South Bay.

Underground Infrastructure

Underground infrastructure is what makes high quality of life possible. Although few people ever see the underpinnings of plumbing, sewer, and other utility lines, they’re an integral part of everyday life.

Deciding how and where to lay underground infrastructure is one of the most difficult problems faced in civil engineering. These pipes and utility lines must follow a specific set of guidelines without interfering with existing infrastructure or affecting the property of private individuals for a prolonged period of time.

Unlike other branches of engineering, the area to build such infrastructure isn’t a blank canvas. Rather, it’s a time-consuming process that has several moving parts. Figuring out how to complete a project on time and under budget is a crucial aspect that further exacerbates the challenge of many civil engineering projects.

Limiting Damage to Existing Infrastructure

Another crucial aspect of civil engineering is attempting to limit the damage to existing infrastructure. When laying or repairing sewer lines, underground pipe, electrical lines, and other utilities, the overarching idea is to reduce the potentially devastating effect it has on roads, sidewalks, and greenery.

To complete this task, many civil engineers turn to trenchless digging. To complete underground projects without disturbing the surface, civil engineers start by assessing the damaged areas or the places that are ideal for new pipes and lines. Once they’ve determined where to start the project, trenchless digging comes into play.

Without an abundance of crew and equipment needed for digging, trenchless options reduce costs and don’t need to tear out roads or landscaping. Workers either dig a small pit to place the trenchless digging equipment or they drive the pipe downward using specialized equipment. This allows crews to complete the project with only a mild disturbance above ground.

Choosing the Right Civil Engineering Contractor for Projects

Once a civil engineering project has been conceptualized, budgeted, and planned, the next step is to find a reputable, respected, honest and experienced civil engineering contractor. Unfortunately, this is easier said than done, especially if the funding or budget isn’t concrete.

That’s why you need a licensed, experienced, and well-equipped civil engineering contractor. When you choose a company with proper licensing and experience, you can feel confident that the job will be completed up to professional standard without worrying about any shortcomings. Well-equipped and well-staffed companies can also limit the amount of time it takes to complete a civil engineering project, enabling you to stay on task.

On your next civil engineering project, don’t take any chances by going with a cheaper or less experienced contractor. The success and outcome of your venture will depend on it. Contact us with any upcoming projects no matter how simple or complex anywhere in the Bay Area.

  • 08
    Mar 18
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san francisco underground construction contractor water main

What do Our San Francisco Underground Construction Projects Consist Of?

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When we talk about underground in San Francisco, one might automatically think of an underground nightclub.  Well, it’s not quite as exciting but for our underground construction crew, it’s just as much fun.  Being a Bay Area underground contractor, we see many projects in the area that involve new construction and existing construction.

Trenchless Underground Projects

No matter what the project involves underground, we use our expertise and advanced equipment to get the job done.  Trenchless is the way to go because it saves time, and money.  Something both the client and as an underground construction contractor we appreciate also.

Less disruption occurs to the surface above, therefore, less repairs to put things back in order.  View our recent sewer rehab project in Daly City involving 1700 feet of underground pipe.

 

Underground Pipe Replacement

The most common underground construction projects in the Bay Area involve pipe!  all kinds of pipe, whether it’s sewer replacement, pipe freezing, pipe reaming, repair and more.

Besides the trenchless method, we rely on other critical equipment that allow us to efficiently complete the various San Francisco underground construction projects such as laser guided bore, and more.

We are the #1 referred and preferred underground utilities contractor in the Bay Area.  Builders, homeowners, and business owners throughout the area call on our expertise and equipment to run conduit as far as the eyes can see.  Water, gas, electrical cable, and whatever else is needed.

Underground construction isn’t as simple as having one piece of equipment.  For over 25 years, we’ve been serving the Bay Area and have tirelessly invested in the most advanced equipment available to insure expeditious completion of projects.

EPS Express Plumbing is your source for underground utilities, commercial, residential, and municipal projects anywhere in the San Francisco Bay Area.  If you have a project coming, contact us for a detailed proposal that will meet your schedule and budget needs.

  • 05
    Feb 18
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Trenchless Pipe Reaming Project in Daly City for a Sewer Rehab by EPS Express Plumbing

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When Daly City asked us to complete a sewer rehab in the Bay Area, the EPS Express Plumbing team was eager to comply using trenchless pipe reaming to get the job done.

What is Trenchless Pipe Reaming?

Trenchless pipe reaming can also be called pipe eating.  It’s a pipe replacement technique that removes the existing pipe and at the same time install a new pipe replacement without digging a huge trench.

Pipe Reaming Project in Daly City

“We enjoy challenging projects, we’ve been doing this type of work in the Bay Area since 1989” said Nick Bechwati, owner of EPS Express Plumbing.

The company is regarded as the best in the Bay Area for all projects involving trenchless pipe replacement for sewer, underground utilities, cable, and everything in between.  Using techniques such as pipe lining, pipe bursting, laser guided bore, micro tunneling with an emphasis on pipe reaming.

No matter what the size of the project, large or small, EPS is has the manpower and equipment required to handle it.

Pipe replacement in the Bay Area has been provided to all cities including the latest sewer rehab project in Daly City.

Daly City Pipe Reaming Sewer Rehab Highlights

There was 1700 feet of existing old 12″ vitrify clay pipe that needed replacement.  The project was managed by Nick Bechwati, our hands on owner and an entire crew that’s experienced and the best in the industry.

Using the trenchless pipe reaming technique 1700 feet of 18″ High-Density Polyethylene “HDPE” pipe was installed through the existing old 12″ vitrify clay.

A special thanks to the City of Daly City and to the entire EPS Express plumbing crew for properly organizing, and setting standards that meet stringent requirements while taking the community and the flow of traffic in the area into consideration.

If you’re looking for an underground construction, civil engineering company you can rely on, we invite you to rely on our expertise to get any size project completed in time and within budget.

EPS Express Plumbing has been serving the entire Bay Area for over 30 years including Daly City, San Mateo, Burlingame, San Francisco, Foster City, Brisbane and all surrounding areas.

We look forward to helping you with your next pipe replacement project.  If you have a civil engineering project, contact Nick Bechwati directly.

  • 19
    Jul 17
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EPS Inc., a Bay Area Heavy Construction Company Saved My Home from a Sinkhole in San Mateo

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Douglas Irvin, a 74-year-old retired Bay Area resident and no stranger to engineering, he retired after 32 years in engineering with the department of defense.

He said in an interview earlier this week.  “Nick Bechwati saved my home and I am grateful.  Nick did everything he could to save money and discussed what he planned to do each step of the way.  He treated me like the professional engineer I am”.

Douglas Irvin has owned a rental property in the San Mateo area for over a decade, all was great until he received a call from his tenant one morning in February 2017 letting him know that a huge sinkhole ripped apart the yard, drained the koi pond and has threatened the home.  Irvin was left with a big problem and a project ahead he wasn’t expecting.

“I had to act fast, I was worried about another rain storm coming and the house collapsing” he said as he recalled the story to me earlier this week.

As the San Mateo Daily Journal reported in February and Irvin recalled during our conversation, he was left with a lot of unanswered questions.

Where is the water coming from? Was there a pipe that failed? Who is responsible for the uphill storm water?  With all these questions, he knew he had to act fast and possibly get the answers later.  He didn’t want to lose his home, and wanted the right heavy construction company for the job.

“There’s a 48” storm drain pipe that ran right through my property, never saw it on the map, I always thought it ran around the property”. Said Irvin

His home was in danger of collapsing, and the entire seen was a complete disaster, marked off by bright yellow caution tape by local authorities.

What lead you to Nick Bechwati, owner of EPS Inc. in the Bay Area?

“I’m not a stranger to engineering, after 32 years I still had a lot of contacts and started asking around for the best Bay Area heavy construction company.  Everyone kept pointing the finger to Nick Bechwati as the most experienced, and best equipped to handle this project, so I gave him a call”

How did your first meeting go with Nick?

“When nick walked up to meet with me, he was holding and leaning on a cane, I also have trouble getting around at my age, so we immediately had something in common.” He said as he chuckled.

Nick Bechwati was still recovering from leg surgery due to an accident that happened earlier this year, he never missed a day of work after his surgery, he is a dedicated hands-on owner that has been serving the Bay Area since 1989 providing advanced drilling, heavy construction, and plumbing services for residential, commercial and municipal clients throughout Northern California.

“They say I’m a workaholic but I don’t see it that way.  If you love and enjoy what you do, is it considered work?” Said Nick Bechwati, owner of EPS Inc. dba Express Plumbing.

His dedication must’ve been apparent to Mr. Irvin during their first encounter.  Irvin continued, “After 32 years of experience in engineering, and dealing with so many people in the industry, I’d like to think I’m a pretty good judge of character.  I didn’t hesitate, after a small conversation with Nick, I agreed with everything he said, I liked his ideas, and action plan, I could tell he was the one I’m trusting my home to, and signed a contract to start right away.”

Were you around your San Mateo rental home during the heavy construction project?

“I’m retired, so I had all the time in the world to hang around the project, I knew what I was looking at and I saw Nick on the job, I documented, took photographs and observed him making some tough decisions, it wasn’t easy, but he had a solution I agreed with every time”.

“This wasn’t your everyday situation, they had to go 25 feet below the pipe and clear all the debris, it needed the right person for the job, someone that can act fast, with no room for error, being an engineer myself, I would’ve done exactly what Nick did in many situations”.

The project was quite involved, it required someone with experience to deal with the permits, and City licensing requirements, etc… “Nick has been around for a while, his relationship and contacts with the local City helped ease the process”. Irvin said with satisfaction.

Did you know EPS Inc. has an Express Plumbing division that handles every day plumbing issues?

“Well, this project didn’t need a plumber that’s for sure, but yes I am familiar with all the services his company provides.  I’ll tell you, if I do need a plumber anywhere in the Bay Area they’ll be the ones I call.

During our conversation, Douglas Irvin was a joy to speak with, he was very forthcoming and shared all he could about the project with a passion.  Very mild tempered when discussing a disaster that threatened his home, this can only come from his many years of experience in engineering.

EPS Inc. dba Express Plumbing is a full-service company specializing in engineering, heavy construction, drilling and plumbing.  Nick Bechwati has been serving the Bay Area since 1989 by providing the highest quality, guaranteed services to not only meet but exceed the clients’ expectations.

The company provides its services to residents, business owners, Bay Area cities, along with 24-hour disaster response.

Anything else you’d like to add Mr. Irvin?

Nick Bechwati did save my home, I made the right choice when I picked EPS Inc. to handle this heavy construction project.  I still have many issues to deal with at the City, but for now, my home is saved and I couldn’t be happier.

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