Category Archives: Underground Infrastructure

  • 21
    Oct 22
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5 Spooky Underground Destinations

5 Spooky Underground Destinations

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Abandoned homes, ruins, and graveyards all have a creepy factor that’s off the charts. But what if you took the same idea and put it far below the Earth’s surface? You’d have spooky underground destinations that add another haunting element to the equation. If you’ve ever wondered what some of the scariest underground destinations are around the world, here’s a quick list to quell your curiosity.

1. Cu Chi Tunnels in Vietnam

Winding through the jungle and hills of Southern Vietnam, the Cu Chi Tunnels were dug by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. With these tunnels, the Viet Cong could move undetected toward unsuspecting U.S. troops.

Today, you can visit the Cu Chi tunnels, but there’s something creepy knowing that these tunnels were used to fight agains the U.S. And with the rusted remains of artillery, tanks, and armored cars, the visit is almost off-putting.

2. Batu Caves in Malaysia

The 140-foot gold plated Hindu god outside of the Batu Caves in Malaysia is an impressive entrance into the caves below. But with somewhat creepy cave drawings, sculptures of eerie Hindu folklore, and ambient lighting just about everywhere, it’s definitely not for the faint of heart.

3. The Paris Catacombs

Meticulously carved by humans beneath the City of Lights, the Paris Catacombs holds over 6 million bodies over five levels. Built in the late 18th century, the catacombs were initally made to address the need to move bodies over a rapidly expanding city. Today, you can get a one-hour tour of the catacombs, but be on the lookout for skeletons — which are just about everywhere you look.

4. Edinburgh Vaults

The Edinburgh Vaults in Scotland are another urban underground structure known for ghastly sightings. However, these weren’t built as a burial ground. In the late 19th century, the city built the vaults to hold food, but due to high poverty levels, the poor of the city started to use the vaults as their home. The vaults also became home to the city’s red light district, adding to the mystery, intrigue, and general creepiness of the vaults themselves.

5. Berlin’s Underground Bunkers

During WWII, the Nazis built miles of underground tunnels and bunkers beneath the city streets of Berlin. Constructed to withstand shelling and bombing from Allied forces, some of the bunkers were the final resting place of Berlin residents, as well as members of the Nazi party. Today, you can take a one-hour tour of the bunker, giving you plenty of time to contemplate the atrocities that WWII created.

Avoid Scary Underground Construction nightmares

If you don’t want a scary season with your underground infrastructure, the only sane thing to do is hire trained professionals for your next project. Regardless of the scope of your project, EPS Express Plumbing has the equipment, staff, and expertise to complete your project on time and within your budget. So, whether you need to dig underground infrastructure for sewage, electricity, or another utility, contact us as your underground infrastructure professional today.

  • 22
    Sep 22
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The World's 5 Most Famous Underground Structures

The World’s 5 Most Famous Underground Structures

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When you think of the great buildings of the world, skyscrapers, bridges, or mansions may come to mind. However, certain problems require complex solutions. From crypts to subway systems, underground infrastructure is vital to the success and convenience of humans. Here are some of the most famous and impressive underground structures in the world.

1. Arsenalna Subway Station

Built 346 feet below the streets of Kyiv, Ukraine, the Asenalna Subway Station is the deepest subway metro station in the world. Opened in 1960, it’s an engineering marvel based on necessity — simply to go comfortably under the Dnieper River.

Just as amazing as the structure itself, the escalator up or down into the subway station takes approximately five minutes, making it one of the longest escalator rides in the world to boot.

2. Paijanne Water Tunnel

Stretching 75 miles at a depth of between 100 and 330 feet below the ground, the Paijanne Water Tunnel is the main supply line of water for the city of Helsinki, Finland. Currently, it’s the second-longest tunnel in the world, trailing only the Delaware Aqueduct in New York City.

However, its relative size — wide enough to fit a truck inside, its depth, and the water flow of 350 cubic feet per second make it perhaps the most impressive underground infrastructure in the world.

3. AngloGold Ashanti Mponeng Gold Mine

Built to mine one of the world’s largest gold reserves, the AngloGold Ashanti Mponeng Gold Mine is also the deepest mine in the world. To get to the gold, a mine shaft extends more than 2.5 miles below the surface of the Earth. It’s so far down, that going from the surface to the bottom on an elevator takes over an hour.

Interestingly, scientists found several organisms at these depths that were previously unknown to mankind.

4. China Jinping Underground Laboratory

Constructed in 2010 under the cliffs and peaks of the Jinping Mountains in Sichuan, China, the China Jinping Underground Laboratory is the deepest facility in the world. Used to explore dark matter due to a lack of cosmic rays, the laboratory is situated more than 7,900 feet below the surface.

5. Wieliczka Salt Mine

Excavated from the late 13th century until 2007, the Wieliczka Salt Mine in Poland is the oldest continuously mined area in the world. But since its closure, the government wanted to do something extra special. Equipping the area with three floors open to the public, the salt mine features a labyrinth, hundreds of passageways, an underground lake, four chapels, sculptures, art, and more. As a result, it’s one of the world’s only below-ground UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Building Underground on Your Own

While you may not build an impressive underground structure of your own, underground infrastructure is always integral to any current construction project. To successfully build utilities protected from the elements, underground pipes are always the best option. You only need to make sure that you get a reputable company to do the job.

EPS Engineering dba Express Plumbing has been performing heavy construction and underground construction services for multiple decades.  As an underground plumbing contractor and civil engineering company, we can make any project happen, no matter how large or small.

Finding an underground infrastructure company with a solid reputation, experience, knowledgeable staff, and the right equipment ensures that your project goes off without a hitch and becomes a benefit rather than a hindrance.

Team up with us for your next project by contacting [email protected]

  • 15
    Aug 22
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Why You Should Switch To Underground Service Feeders

Why You Should Switch To Underground Service Feeders

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Whether you’re building a new house, you’re a contractor, or you work for a municipality, you have many choices to bring power to new construction. In the past, overhead service feeders were the industry standard — they still are today in many areas of the country. But it’s not the only option. By switching to underground service feeders for utilities, you can achieve a number of benefits you never thought possible. Here’s why you should consider it.

What Are Underground Service Feeders?

Before making the decision to use underground service feeders, you should probably know what they are. The idea is simple. Instead of having wires and cables for internet, fiber optics, and power above ground suspended by poles, they’re buried in the ground.

Moreover, the wires run along the standard utility poles, down a pipe to a transformer, and then into the ground where they’re fed into the house — typically through some type of PVC pipe.

The Advantages of Switching to Underground Service Feeders

Aside from having no visible wires above ground and a better overall aesthetic, underground service feeders have a more important role: they’re impervious to damage from weather, motorists, thieves, vandals, or any other thing that could cause significant damage. More than anything, you won’t have a disruption of power, internet, or other services that are integral to the comfort and convenience of your daily life.

The Added Cost of Underground Service Feeders

Unfortunately, the major downside of underground service feeders is the additional cost. According to some estimates, the underground infrastructure of this type is three to five times more expensive than traditional overhead service feeders.

This added expense can pose a problem to those on a budget. However, you have to make some major assumptions about the future of these wires. If these feeders or wires have far less of a chance of being damaged, the associated costs of repairs and downtime may actually make cost a non-issue.

A similar concept would be purchasing a brand-new car as opposed to a used one. A used one can certainly get you where you need to go, but after repairs and maintenance, you may find that buying a new car is actually the better option in a cost-benefit model.

Safety Concerns

When live wires come down during a storm or an accident, they pose an imminent threat to everyone around. But with underground service, you don’t have to worry about such issues. The only true safety concern is knowing where you can dig. As long as you plan ahead for digging a water feature or trench, underground infrastructure is almost always the safer solution.

Finding a Reputable Contractor for Underground Infrastructure

Even the best planning, budgeting, and management are all for nothing if you don’t have the proper company to do the work.

EPS Engineering not only specializes in underground infrastructure solutions but we have a variety of options available to residential, commercial, and municipal clients.  With many successful projects completed throughout the Bay Area, we can help.

You should place the utmost priority on finding a reputable contractor for underground infrastructure, or you just might find yourself behind on time and light on cash. Make sure that you choose an experienced company with great resources, the right equipment, and knowledgeable workers. Only then can you truly reap the benefits of a switch to underground service feeders?  The EPS Engineering team is here to assist you on your next underground infrastructure project anywhere in the Bay Area.  Contact us to discuss.

  • 20
    May 22
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What’s New in Civil Engineering in 2022

What’s New in Civil Engineering in 2022

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Innovation is perhaps the single most important aspect in the field of civil engineering. Without innovation, quality, efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability of both commercial and residential construction projects can stagnate. This, in turn, can lead to over-budget projects that aren’t done on time — two aspects that customers, builders, and firms can’t afford to have. But each year, innovative new concepts and products are changing the world of civil engineering. Here’s what’s new in civil engineering in 2022.

Implementation of Drones

Drones are everywhere. Photographers, drone racers, or just novice pilots all enjoy getting behind the controls and discovering new and hidden things. However, drone application to job sites has become more popular in recent times.

In 2022, the implementation of drones for civil engineering projects is transforming how project managers work. By flying a drone over a construction area, managers can observe large areas of land, as well as identify any potential issues along the way.

Self-Sealing Concrete

Concrete is one of the most common building materials on the planet, but due to sudden changes in temperature and weather, it’s also prone to cracking. Fortunately, self-sealing concrete may be available in the near future.

While the technology isn’t quite ready for market, self-sealing concrete uses small fibers or capsules filled with adhesives. When the concrete starts to crack, these capsules and fibers spring into action, filling the crack, preventing additional damage, and avoiding any problems with stability or aesthetics.

At EPS Engineering, we are focused on always researching and implementing new innovations, techniques and equipment that make sense for our customers.  Cost savings and efficiency without sacrificing on quality is key.  We love sharing these new innovations we research with you, whether we choose to implement them or not. 

Photovoltaic Glazing

With increases in greenhouse gas emissions and global warming at the forefront of global issues, humans need to develop a solution to keep the planet safe. One of the ideas swirling around is photovoltaic glazing.

Photovoltaic glazing is a type of outer coating that can be placed on the exterior of buildings to help them generate their own electricity. Essentially, this glaze allows buildings to supplement existing power systems and turn buildings into larger solar panels. Builders can place this glaze on several areas, such as:

  • Roof shingles
  • Skylights
  • Roof tiles
  • Building facades

With these additional power sources, occupants of the building depend less on fossil fuels to heat, cool, and power their homes.

Kinetic Footfall Power Generation

Another interesting idea in civil engineering in 2022 is kinetic footfall power generation. The idea is simple. Builders create blocks on the ground in places frequented by heavy foot traffic. When people step onto these blocks, the block connects to components that help generate power.

While this sounds like science fiction, it actually may become reality in the near future. It may not produce loads of power, but even enough to power the lights in a park is well worth the effort.

What Lies Ahead for Civil Engineering?

With so many interesting and innovative new ideas within the civil engineering field, creating new ideas may seem impossible. But each and every year, talented individuals and firms are finding ways to improve new and existing infrastructure to improve the longevity and quality of projects.

What lies next? Only time will tell, but fresh, original ideas are never too far off in the industry. The only thing left to do is sit back and wait for 2023. 

If you’d like to discuss civil engineering, underground construction, digging, or plumbing projects in the Bay Area, we’re happy to help. 

We can provide you with a detailed assessment and proposal whether it’s an existing structure, new construction, above ground or underground.  EPS Engineering has been serving the Bay Area for multiple decades, let us know how we can be of assistance.  Contact us today.

  • 24
    Apr 22
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4 Ways to Cut Costs on New Construction

4 Ways to Cut Costs on New Construction

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Whether you’re an individual building a new home, a business breaking ground on a development, or a municipality looking to save, cutting costs on new construction is essential. The good news is that you have several ways to achieve cost savings with just a modicum of effort. To get the project done on or under budget, here are ways to cut costs on new construction.

1. Consider Underground Infrastructure

Overhead infrastructure — such as utility lines, water pipes, and power cables — have historically been built both above and below ground, depending on existing infrastructure, local codes, and building costs.

However, underground infrastructure is the best option if your aim is to save money. While the initial cost is often higher, the total long-term cost is far less than above-ground options. New technology has cut costs significantly and even replacement costs in the future have dropped. Moreover, underground infrastructure is protected from the elements and extreme weather, which can lead to lower repair and maintenance costs over time.

2. Hiring the Right Crew

Another way to cut costs on new construction is by hiring the right company or contractor. However, this doesn’t mean you should accept the lowest bid for new construction. You have to dig a bit deeper than that. Consider the following characteristics and attributes of quality contractors and companies:

  • Making sure the company owns the equipment necessary to get the job done vs. renting it, which can often cost more.
  • Experience in the field. Companies with more experience may charge higher rates, but they can often get the job done in a fraction of the time.
  • Past jobs and reviews. Gathering intel from former customers and reviewing work can give you insight into whether the contractor or crew is the ideal choice for the job.
  • Getting everything in writing. An estimate enables you to see all the work that the company plans to complete, a breakdown of all costs, and a timetable for project completion.

EPS Inc. in San Mateo has been helping residents and businesses for multiple decades.  Whether it’s repairs on an existing structure or new construction, our crew is experienced and we own the largest fleet of underground construction equipment to get the job successfully completed.

3. Off-Season Construction

Although new construction costs have increased drastically since the onset of the global COVID pandemic, construction hasn’t really slowed as a result. But if you can find a lull in the schedule, it’s the perfect time to schedule your new construction.

When new construction hits a lull, most contractors lower their rates as a result. This is an amazing way to find extra savings on a project, even when the costs of labor and materials continue to rise.

4. Reducing Material Costs

The cost of nearly every building material has risen in the past few years. And while cutting costs in this regard may seem fruitless, doing a bit of extra research can cut costs immensely. Precast concrete is always a smart choice for custom sizes and buying materials in bulk or from a wholesaler can save money compared to retail options.

Cutting Costs Isn’t the Same as Going Cheap

While some homeowners and municipalities may cut costs by going with the cheapest available options, weighing the cost of experience vs. low-cost options is important. So, if you want to cut costs on new construction, going in-depth on your research, asking for reviews or recommendations, and letting your contractor get down to business without interference can put your construction on cruise control. What you do with the extra savings is entirely up to you. Our entire team of engineers, technicians, plumbers, and support staff are here to help you on your next project.  Contact us to discuss your plans, we’ll turn them into a reality.

  • 29
    Mar 22
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3 Ways Technology Is Propelling Underground Infrastructure

3 Ways Technology Is Propelling Underground Infrastructure

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Technological advancements are changing the world in almost every industry and even in people’s daily lives. In the construction industry, this is no different, especially with respect to underground infrastructure. Not only is underground infrastructure more sustainable than above-ground options, but it also is becoming less expensive due to technology. If you were considering underground infrastructure for your next building project, here are some ways that technology is making the choice easier than ever.

1. Upgraded Piping Materials

One of the biggest issues plaguing existing underground infrastructure is age. Cement, cast iron, and clay pipes laid decades ago are starting to reach the end of their useful life due to corrosion, cracking, and other issues. And with over half of water mains across the country built from these materials, upgrades are necessary.

Thankfully, the prevalence of PVC pipe has changed the game. This type of pipe is impervious to corrosion while also offering a life span of 100 to 125 years. Once installed, you never have to worry about replacing this part of underground infrastructure for the remainder of your life.

2. Improved Tunneling Techniques

Tunneling techniques have also propelled underground infrastructure to new levels, reducing costs and allowing pipes to fit into areas that were once thought impossible. Perhaps even more interesting is that these techniques limit damage to the surrounding area or above ground. Where old technology might have caused sinkholes or structural issues, modern tunneling techniques provide a low-risk option for laying water and utility pipes beneath the surface of the soil.

3. AI and Sensors Create Underground Maps

Another major issue that has proved an issue in the past is creating tunnels and pathways to properly accommodate underground pipes and utilities. Improper digging or digging unnecessarily caused over $30 billion in damages in 2021 alone. Moreover, another issue isn’t exactly a lack of places to put pipes, but rather, how to do it without interrupting traffic or damaging plant life or other above-ground infrastructure.

Fortunately, artificial intelligence (AI) and sensors have made this process that much easier. Israeli-based company Exodigo is at the forefront of this technology. Using a system based on AI and sensors that can reach up to 10 meters below ground, Exodigo can create a map of the underground infrastructure. The map is then superimposed over a satellite image of the above-ground infrastructure to determine the feasibility of a particular project.

These sensors also bring non-invasive technology, using drones to map the area while also “seeing” below the surface. While the technology is still in its relative infancy, it could become a game-changer in the future of the industry.

EPS Engineering in the Bay Area is relied upon by residents, businesses, and municipalities to complete the most complex underground infrastructure projects.  For multiple decades, we’ve served our community, our references speak for themselves.

While underground infrastructure may still remain a bit more expensive than outdated alternatives, the gap in costs continues to close. So, whether you’re a prospective homeowner, a project manager, or part of local government, considering underground infrastructure is a step in the right direction. Just make sure you contact us and schedule a consultation to discuss your upcoming project.

With EPS Engineering, you’ll have infrastructure that’s longer-lasting and with fewer complications than other alternatives.

  • 28
    Sep 21
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Who Is Responsible for the Main Sewer Line?

Who Is Responsible for the Main Sewer Line?

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Buried underground, your sewer line plays a vital role in your home. However, few notice the inconspicuous sewer line until it comes under duress or fails entirely. And that’s when homeowners hit the panic button. If a sewer line bursts or backs up, it’s certainly a cause for concern. But before you decide to call the insurance company or gather estimates, you should know when the repairs are your responsibility or the city’s responsibility. Here’s what you should know.

What Are Sewer Lines?

An upper lateral sewer line is an underground pipe that carries waste and wastewater from your home to the edge of your property line. Here it meets the lower lateral sewer line which feeds the wastewater to the public sewer.

When Are Homeowners Responsible for the Main Sewer Line?

Almost every type of damage to a sewer lateral is the responsibility of the homeowner. This includes both the upper and lower lateral, even if it goes beyond your property. In some cases, the lower lateral may be the responsibility of the city, but this is rare. More times than not, the homeowner is on the hook.

Sewer laterals most often fail or burst due to age, tree roots, or the material they’re constructed from. In particular, old clay pipes are especially perceptible to damage, as they’re far more brittle than modern PVC pipes. In other cases, a blockage or a pipe handling both sewer and storm drainage can, also known as a combined sewer, can cause the sewer lateral to become overloaded, backing up into your home.

Fortunately, most homeowners’ insurance policies cover damage to the sewer lateral. However, these policies can be costly and you may have to pay a hefty deductible before the contractor breaks ground.

At EPS Engineering we specialize in underground sewer.  Our team of San Mateo Plumbers and engineers can help you assess the situation in order to move forward with the most affordable and feasible solution.

When Is the City Responsible for the Main Sewer Line?

While some cities may fix the lower lateral sewer line, a majority of municipalities only repair the main sewer line. To determine who’s responsible, the city may have to send out workers to assess the damage. Once they dig, they can find out who has to pay for the repairs and they may even provide you with a formal letter notifying you that you must fix the sewer main.

No Matter Who Is Responsible, an Experience Contractor Is a Necessity

Regardless of who has to repair the damaged sewer line, hiring the right contractor is tantamount to success and preventing backups or other damage from happening in the future. A company that has the right equipment, expertise, and staff is integral to the success of the project.

Moreover, completing the repairs with minimal interruption to traffic or the ground above is essential. If you can find a reputable company that uses trenchless technology, both municipalities and homeowners can mitigate the amount of money and time needed to repair roads, lawns, or landscape above ground. So rather than pay a high deductible or let the insurance company sort out your contractor, do your due diligence and give us a call.  Your home and your wallet will thank you with our team of San Mateo sewer experts.

  • 24
    Aug 21
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All About City Potable Water and Proper Maintenance

All About City Potable Water and Proper Maintenance

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You turn on the tap, fill your glass, and guzzle down a glass of water. In the midst of refreshment, you probably don’t take the time to think about where the water came from. But cities and municipalities have to think about how to get this water to you each day.

Using a complex system of treatments and filters, local government agencies and hired contractors turn greywater into a usable substance, yet the quality of water and its ease of use may cause many people to overlook its source. Moreover, potable water and proper maintenance are essential to everyday life and the quality of living in suburban and urbanized areas. So where does potable water come from and why is maintenance so important? Read on to find out.

What Is Potable Water?

Also known as drinking water, potable water is treated water that’s safe to drink and use in food preparation. However, it’s also used for irrigation, washing, and plumbing. On average, a U.S. household consumes nearly 70 gallons of water a day and even more during extreme heat, underscoring the need for a clean water source at all times.

The process of treating water is complex, yet it’s simple enough for most people to understand. When the water reaches a water treatment plant, different types of non-toxic chemicals are added to the water. These bind with dissolved particles in the water that cause them to float to the bottom. The water is then filtered and disinfected to become potable water, which is then recirculated through water pipes.

What Type of Water Is City Water?

The source of city water varies from location to location. In some areas, it’s taken from lakes, rivers, streams, and reservoirs. In other areas of the country, it’s sourced from groundwater that’s pumped from a minimum of 30 feet below the surface. Depending on the source of the water, it may contain different elements that alter its taste, mineral makeup, and overall quality.

Maintenance of Potable Water Tanks

Potable water tanks are one of the most important aspects of modern-day drinking water systems. Without proper maintenance, however, water can become contaminated, which can cause widespread boil orders and other issues. As a result, maintenance becomes essential.

In general, potable water tanks should be inspected every five years to ensure the integrity of the metal, as well as to ascertain whether they’re susceptible to any other issues or leaks. If the local government fails to do this, people can become ill.

That’s why many municipalities turn to experienced contractors like us during inspection periods. A reputable company has years of experience in the industry assessing and treating potable water tanks. They also use specific equipment that’s been sanitized and is used solely for the purpose of inspecting and treating water tanks. With a trained staff that’s experienced in the industry, these companies are more apt to accurately find sources of contamination and keep potable water clean and safe for consumers.

In the Bay Area, municipalities rely on our team at EPS dba Express Plumbing to inspect, and repair Potable water tanks, pipes, and underground infrastructure.  We have dedicated equipment and experienced staff to ensure the integrity of these inspections.

Why a Seasoned, Reputable Contractor Is Ideal for Drinking Water and the Safety of Citizens

Because the public’s health is at risk, cities, and municipalities should put a premium on who they hire for the proper maintenance of potable water tanks and related services. By hiring only, a reputable, skilled company that has the right equipment and staff to get the job done, the quality of water and the health of citizens is all but guaranteed.

If you have any questions or would like to know more about our wide range of services at EPS Inc. dba Express Plumbing, contact Nick Bechwati, our owner for a private discussion.

  • 26
    Jul 21
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What is hot tapping in plumbing and when is it needed

What is hot tapping in plumbing and when is it needed?

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Keeping sewage and water pipelines are integral to businesses and the quality of living in households. But when upgrades or maintenance are required, turning off service seems like an inevitability.

However, hot tapping is a process that’s turning the plumbing world upside down. Through this method, service continues on existing pipes and systems while workers make repairs. Learn how hot tapping is revolutionizing the world of plumbing and utilities, and how this service can work for you.

What is Hot Tapping?

Also known as pressure tapping, hot tapping is a method whereby our technicians hook up a new branch connection to an existing or pressurized pipeline by drilling or cutting. Using specialized tools, workers can continue service of the pipeline while also making connections or repairing the original system.  Part of our method of service at EPS is to make sure we minimize the downtime required while completing a project.  We want your business or home to function as it should while we get the repairs done.

The advantage to hot tapping is both economic and environmental. Businesses aren’t hindered by a lack of services or utilities while the process also prevents the release of methane gas that’s found in sewage pipes.

Can A Live Water Main be Hot Tapped?

Another advantage of hot tapping is that it allows a live water main to undergo maintenance. Thus, we can hot tap a live water main while it continues to work unimpeded. Water main hot taps can range in size from a ½ inch to 48 inches depending on the functionality required and the size of the water main pipe (although the size of the water main is typically no bigger than 16 inches).

EPS Inc. dba Express Plumbing has been providing innovative approaches to engineering and plumbing in the Bay Area for multiple decades.  No matter how simple or complicated a project is, simply give our crew a call and we’ll give you multiple options.

Hot Tapping Vs Cold Tapping

The main difference between hot tapping and cold tapping is whether or not the pipe is pressurized. If the pipe is under pressure, workers use hot tapping; if the pipe isn’t under pressure, cold tapping is used.

The downside with cold tapping is that the pipe is taken out of service, which can have significant economic and environmental ramifications. However, cold tapping may prevent leaks or other issues that have a slight chance of occurring during the hot tapping process.

Choosing one over the other requires an assessment of the particular scenario, as well as which method requires the least downtime for residential and commercial customers of the service. That said, hot tapping’s ability to keep the line in service is one of the main reasons why contractors and companies choose it over a cold tapping process.

Hiring The Right Hot Tapping Contractor

Like many other types of underground repairs or underground infrastructure, choosing the right hot tapping contractor is the difference between the success of a lingering or even a failed project.

As a hot tapping contractor in the Bay Area, EPS Inc. has impeccable resources combined with the proper equipment and a team of skilled workers. Experience in hot tapping is also essential, as it can lower the time of the project and ensure it’s done correctly. Because of the complexities involved in hot tapping, customers and consumers shouldn’t settle for only some of these qualities. Our team at EPS Inc. offers these qualities and more.

Through hot tapping, governments and businesses can provide a much-needed upgrade to existing systems without lowering the chance for commerce or quality of living. If you’re in need of a hot-tapping experienced team or any other project that involves underground construction, heavy construction, drilling, plumbing, or civil engineering, give us a call, we look forward to serving you anywhere in the Bay Area.

  • 29
    Jun 21
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Common Questions About Underground Pipes

Common Questions About Underground Pipes

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Whether you’re building a new property, find underground piping inadvertently on your lawn, or you need to find the source of the problem, you may have several questions about underground piping. Here are some of the answers to the most commonly asked questions. 

What Are the Different Types of Underground Piping?

Underground piping systems use a variety of materials for effective operations. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) and CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride) pipes are two common options. Both are types of welded, plastic polymer pipes used for plumbing in both residential and commercial applications. These pipes are highly resilient and also have resistance to temperature changes, different soil conditions, and corrosion. In most instances, PVC and CPVC pipes have replaced outdated options such as clay or cast iron.

Another underground pipe material is copper. Used since the inception of underground piping, copper pipes are naturally corrosion-resistant and durable, making them an excellent option for all types of underground applications.

PEX piping is yet another type of underground piping, but even some plumbers and companies aren’t aware it’s approved for such usage. Although most often used in interior construction, this flexible plastic tubing can be used under concrete slabs and other similar types of construction.

EPS Inc. is a division of Express Plumbing that focuses on underground construction and engineering.  The two sectors of our company work hand in hand to ensure all your plumbing and engineering issues are handled by one company from start to finish.  This level of organization and expertise ensures your project, no matter how big, small or complicated is handled correctly and quickly.

What Is the Depth of Water Pipes?

The depth of your irrigation or residential piping will vary depending on the area you’re in. No matter the type of piping, it should be trenched or buried 12 inches underneath the frost line that is recorded in your area. This often translates to a distance of 5 to 6 feet. In areas without frost, the depth can be less, but a similar distance is often used for the sake of safety.

While the levels of depth changes on what zoning the area has previously made mandatory, the 12’ inch rule is generally used around much of the United States. Depth level of pipes can be affected by more than frost and weather conditions. If there is heavy traffic over the area where the piping is, the depth levels will go deeper to about 24’ inches below the frost level. Again, this all changes based on the diameter and size of the pipe, as well as the zoning in different areas.

How Deep Do Sewer Pipes Go?

Depths of sewer piping is very similar to water piping, but there are some changes in depth that vary due to weather. Since sewer pipes are carrying a liquid, they must be deep enough into the ground that the pipe itself will not freeze and possibly burst.

Depth levels in warmer climates or on private property are typically around 12 to 30 inches deep. But in some colder climates, the pipes will go as much as 6 feet into the ground. In areas prone to hurricanes or frequent, intense storms, sewage pipes are often buried deeper so they aren’t disturbed if the topsoil is removed.

How Far are Underground Pipes Maintained?

The maintenance of underground piping is just as important as the laying of the pipe. If the maintenance of piping is poor it could lead to bursting pipes, corrosion, and other hazards.

Three main steps can be taken to ensure good maintenance of piping. The first is annual inspections of all types of piping. This can be done by any certified company, as well as local government inspections in certain municipalities. Inspectors will use equipment to test various attributes of the pipes, such as metal corrosion and build-up of restrictions inside the piping

Simple repairs will need to be made on a somewhat regular basis to ensure the continued performance of underground piping. This may include the replacement of a small section of piping or other minor maintenance.

Finally, marking the locations of dig sights and getting approval of future digging to eliminate the chance of breaking a pipe are mandatory. This requires an agreement or cooperation between companies, individuals, and the local government, but is necessary to maintain the integrity and usage of underground piping systems.

All Your Underground Piping Questions Solved

Whether you’re breaking ground on a new property or you’re just interested in underground piping, these answers should quench your curiosity. But don’t forget about the final part of the puzzle: a reputable underground infrastructure crew.

Give our team of experienced civil engineers, plumbers, and technicians a call.  We are here to support the above-ground and underground pipes in the Bay Area with our fleet of equipment and expertise.

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