Tag Archives: underground construction engineers

  • 20
    Nov 21
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Why Your Dream Home Needs Proper Underground Infrastructure

Why Your Dream Home Needs Proper Underground Infrastructure

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Cookie-cutter homes have been popular throughout the United States for over 70 years. For developers, creating the same home over and over again was a cost-cutting measure, especially for consumers that were more worried about leaving the city than residential architecture.

But tastes and times have changed. While a generic home used to be popular among homebuyers, the desire for something that’s unique and custom-built often trumps the idea of merely buying a home. So if you’ve ever dreamed of building your dream home, you aren’t alone. And while picking the right spot and choosing the right plans are integral, don’t forget about one often overlooked aspect: underground infrastructure.

Why Underground Infrastructure Matters

You probably don’t think about underground infrastructure when you flick a light switch, flush your toilet, or turn on the sink. But all of this revolves around your underground infrastructure. By building these subterranean lines, you avoid the unsightly wires that plague above-ground infrastructure.

So unless you want a jungle of wires connected to your house, underground infrastructure is essential. Plus, there’s nothing worse about building your dream home than having it draped in wires and ruining the ambiance and aesthetic of the property you’ve worked so hard to create.

How to Assess a Lot for Proper Underground Infrastructure

One you’ve found a lot that appeals to you, assessing it for proper underground infrastructure installation is ideal. Soil and the water table are two crucial aspects of the inspection. If the water table is too high, you risk constant flooding, as well as possible damage to your underground pipes.

The type and hardness of the soil are also of the utmost concern. The ground has to be sturdy enough to support the home, but it also must be soft enough that digging out the soil for the foundation and underground infrastructure is attainable. As a result, make sure to hire a contractor with the ability to assess the soil before you buy.

Choosing the Right Contractor for Your Underground Infrastructure

Now that you have the lot, the blueprints, and the permits, the next step is to find the right contractor for the job. Unfortunately, not all contractors are created equal. You need to find one that has:

  • The right equipment for the job, whether they own it or can reasonably rent it
  • The most experience possible
  • A staff or team with a proven track record and expertise in the field

EPS Engineering a division of Express Plumbing is your underground infrastructure contractor in the Bay Area.  Equipped and staffed to handle any size project from blueprint to reality. 

In many cases, the lot you choose will have easy hookups to water, electric, and waste. But if you decide to build in a rural area or something further away from neighborhoods and people, underground infrastructure becomes an essential part of your plans for a dream home.

So, before you buy or build, make sure you partner with us in order to assess the feasibility and costs of the project. The success, budget, and your love of the home all depends on it.

To discuss future or upcoming projects, or to learn more, contact our owner Nick Bechwati directly.  We are a hands-on company, he is involved in every aspect of project planning to long after the project is done.

We will support you as you turn your dream into a reality, consider us your civil engineering partner in the Bay Area.

  • 20
    Oct 21
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Signs You May Need to Replace Your Water Main

Signs You May Need to Replace Your Water Main

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Your water main and plumbing system are the hidden lifeblood of your home. Without them, you’re in for a debacle of epic proportions. However, many people ignore some of the issues with a faulty water main based almost solely on the cost involved. However, catching some of the early signs that you may need maintenance can actually save you money. So if you’re wondering whether your water main or water line needs replacement, look out for these telltale signs.

Constant Running Water

One of the biggest signs that you may need to replace or fix your water main is when you constantly hear the sound of running water in your home. If you live in a purchased condo, townhome, or apartment, this may not affect you. But if you own a single-family home, keep an ear out for constant running water. Additionally, any banging or whistling sounds can also be the result of a faulty water main.

Low Water Pressure

From time to time, your home may have low water pressure. This can be due to a number of reasons, but if it persists, it could be a sign of a broken water main. In particular, if the water pressure gets worse over time, your water main could be the culprit.

Damp Spots

Some damp spots in a house are inevitable. Perhaps you live in an area with high humidity. However, persistent damp spots in the same area could mean that your water main isn’t draining out to the main sewer or water line. Unless you spilled water or you have a leak in the roof, you may want to consider an inspection regarding your constantly damp or wet areas.

Sky-High Water Bills

When you own a home for a while, you get a basic idea of how much you should pay for water. While certain times of the year may necessitate a higher water bill, such as when you’re watering your lawn or having the kids run through the sprinkler, higher water bills aren’t necessarily something you should just accept.

When your water bill continually rises or goes to new heights, chances are that something is wrong with your water main. The only sensible thing to do is to hire a professional to inspect everything and find out what’s wrong with your plumbing system.

Water on the Street

One of the biggest problems with identifying a water main problem is that the issue may not exist within your home. Sometimes, the telltale sign is outside of the home. Ruptured water main pipes may actually push water to the surface either through your lawn or out onto the nearby street. If you notice excessive amounts of water and you’re not sure where they’re from, your water main may need an inspection.

A water main or water line replacement, while expensive, isn’t something you should put to the side. If you wait too long, you could end up paying hundreds or thousands of extra dollars. So, if you see any of the signs of a faulty line, don’t wait. Call our professionals at EPS-Engineering today to take care of the issue and leave your plumbing situation in good hands.

EPS-Engineering a division of Express Plumbing serves the Bay Area by providing civil engineering, plumbing and underground construction.  We serve commercial, municipal and residential clients throughout the Bay.  We are experienced and equipped to handle any size job above or below ground.  Give us a call today.

  • 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.

  • 28
    May 21
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Heavy Civil Engineering Projects on The Rise Post Pandemic

Heavy Civil Engineering Projects on The Rise Post Pandemic

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COVID had a dramatic impact on construction throughout 2020 and into early 2021. And while projects never completely halted, they were often derailed or delayed, at least momentarily. However, President Biden’s nearly $2 trillion plan to improve infrastructure by repairing or upgrading roads, highways, bridges, and more is a promising development for the construction industry, especially for heavy civil engineering projects. With more government funding and better-paying jobs to boost manpower, civil engineering firms are the ideal choice for municipalities.

Why Heavy Civil Engineering Projects Are on the Rise Post-COVID

With the availability of vaccinations, most Americans plan on getting vaccinated or already are. While this will lead to a boost in entertainment, shopping, and dining, it also has a profound effect on heavy civil engineering. Workers and employers aren’t as concerned about the spread of disease, leading to an all-hands-on-deck approach to projects that have been delayed due to COVID.

Furthermore, many local governments and municipalities can take advantage of Biden’s infrastructure bill to reduce overall costs or prevent increased taxes. Through this funding, more projects can be planned and executed on time and, hopefully, under budget.

How To Select a Heavy Civil Engineering Firm for Your Next Project

Not all civil engineering firms are created equal. With a high degree of complexity, engineering projects require a company that has the know-how and resources to get the job done right. Here are some things you should look for when you’re collecting bids or searching for a company to hire.

Manpower

Due to COVID, manpower has been significantly depleted within the heavy construction industry. Whether workers are too scared to show up or companies lay off workers to cut costs, having the right people isn’t as easy as it once was.

However, a top-notch heavy civil engineering firm always brings on the best staff to ensure the project fits the timeline and budget. With a team of workers with knowledge and a strong work ethic, projects can get off the ground more easily and finish without delay.

Machinery

Heavy machinery is a quintessential component of any civil engineering project. As a result, you’ll want to search for companies that own their own equipment. These companies may be able to significantly lower their overhead because owning is often less expensive over time than renting. Moreover, these companies can use depreciation tax breaks to their advantage, which also makes owning the equipment a source of cost reduction that they pass onto customers.

Experience and Expertise

Experience and expertise is a tandem that you can’t afford to overlook. The more experience a heavy civil engineering firm has, the more likely that they’re able to adhere to guidelines and get the job done quickly and efficiently.

Don’t Skimp on Costs by Hiring the Wrong Company

Although a reputable heavy civil engineering firm may come with a higher price tag, that money is well spent. With the manpower, machinery, and experience to deliver a project within your budget and timeline, you’re actually saving money over other firms that may cause the project to lag behind schedule. In other words, you get what you pay for. So don’t hire the cheapest contractor just to save a bit of money. You’ll actually end up spending more in the long run. EPS Inc. dba Express Plumbing has been serving the Bay Area with underground and heavy construction services for multiple decades.  Our crew is the most experienced, and our fleet of equipment is state-of-the-art.  There is no project too big, too small, or too complicated for our crew to handle.  We’d love to share our portfolio of previous projects with you and are here to assist you with any upcoming projects.  Book a private meeting with us today.

  • 27
    Apr 21
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New Construction Engineering

New Construction Engineering

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As the housing market continues to boom, new construction engineering becomes essential to both developers and homeowners. Both residential and commercial projects can benefit from excellent planning and implementation of such engineering, especially with respect to underground infrastructure and utilities. Whether you’re building a new home, are a business owner expanding to new locations, or a municipality in charge with regulating construction, underground engineering is vital to the success of the project and continued functionality for years to come.

Why Underground Infrastructure Is Integral to Success

Subterranean infrastructure provides a number of benefits that can’t be achieved through above-ground options. However, choosing to use underground infrastructure is a decision that developers and local government must make prior to breaking ground. As such, all involved parties should understand the advantages of underground infrastructure to make an educated decision on why it’s the better option.

Less Expensive Over Time

Though the initial cost is often more expensive, the results provide cost savings over a period of time. The construction of above-ground utilities and infrastructure can often cause disruption to local roads and commerce. Moreover, the risk of damage to existing utilities can also pose a threat that increases expenses.

Less Maintenance

With the latest trenchless technology tools and equipment, building underground infrastructure is less invasive than ever. Not only is it a less time-consuming option, but the chance of extraneous costs and future maintenance is diminished.

EPS dba Express Plumbing specializes in underground construction engineering and plumbing.  We have worked with municipalities, developers, homeowners and business owners to ensure their projects are meticulously completed to their satisfaction.

Working With the Right Company

Experienced engineering firms with dozens of underground infrastructure projects know exactly what needs to be done to achieve success. That’s why developers and municipalities rely on our crew’s expertise to get the job done right the first time around.  No project is too big or too small for us to handle in the Bay Area.

We work closely with architectural engineers, contractors, and local government to lay the groundwork for a successful project. This means that detailed plans are drawn up far before the project gets started.

Through this planning, our engineering team can identify any potential pitfalls while also streamlining the project. This not only ensures on-time delivery of the new construction, but also eliminates the incidence of issues that can put the project over budget.

The Hallmarks of a Great Engineering Company

Reputation and experience should always play roles in selecting an underground engineering company for new construction. Yet the selection of a quality company goes beyond this. Not only should the company have experience, but also the workers, ranging from project managers all the way to laborers.

In addition, the company should also have the fleet of advanced equipment necessary to complete the project.  Add all of these attributes together, and you’ll have both a company you trust and a partner that’s as interested as completing the project on time as you are.

Why You Should Choose an Experienced Civil Engineering Firm

While the construction market is often inundated with cheap labor and contractors providing low-ball bids, developers, homeowners, and municipalities should be wary of such companies for complex underground engineering projects.

Before you choose a company to complete the work, weigh experience, equipment, and personnel against price. With a reputable, licensed, and experienced underground contractor, the higher initial cost will actually lead to a lower overall cost in terms of upkeep and maintenance. That’s a trade-off that’s well worth the price. If you have a project in the horizon you’d like to discuss, give us a call or contact Nick Bechwati to discuss the details.

  • 28
    Jan 21
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Planning and Civil Engineering Projects In the Covid Era

Planning and Civil Engineering Projects In the Covid Era

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The COVID era has changed the way people live their lives. From mass quarantines to social distancing and mask-wearing, the pandemic maintains its stranglehold on normality. And while much above-ground has changed, humans still need one aspect to stay strong: underground infrastructure. Every person still relies on this infrastructure for water, power, sewer, and more. Without it, the world would plunge into uncertainty never before seen on such a mass scale. For municipalities and urban areas to thrive, the planning of civil engineering projects for underground infrastructure becomes even more integral—something that planners can’t ignore.

How Civil Engineering Firms Are Handling the COVID Pandemic

Before diving into the importance of planning and civil engineering projects in the COVID era, governments and the public should understand how these firms are handling COVID. To some degree, many firms have adopted hybrid workplaces. These workplaces split their staff so about half work from home and half work onsite during a given period. After a set amount of time, these employees switch places. Not only does this adhere to social distancing guidelines, but it also allows civil engineering companies to stay on task during the pandemic.

Why You Should Still Move Ahead With Civil Engineering Projects

Many people don’t understand the magnitude of underground infrastructure and the impact it has on daily activities. Without new construction or proper maintenance of these utilities, quality of life and staying true to COVID regulations could be an arduous or almost impossible task. Therefore, leaders and politicians should remain on schedule to maintain underground utilities and services such as:

  • Water
  • Sewer
  • Power
  • CCTV lines

And these are only just a handful of the list of actual projects that need constant attention, maintenance, and expansion. COVID may cause an interruption in above-ground services, but these can’t be ignored.

Civil Engineering Projects Integral to Weathering the COVID-Era Storm

Underground civil engineering projects are more than just digging a hole and replacing pipes. Reputable companies have skilled, experienced employees, years of knowledge, and relevant project management to keep the infrastructure running smoothly.

The reason to hire such a company is twofold: to meet the needs of an expanding population/city limits and to repair outdated infrastructure. In some cities and towns, pipes can be decades old, meaning that a full-on catastrophe is only a matter of time. That’s what makes maintenance and new projects so crucial. With new technology and equipment, these projects take only a fraction of the time compared to old-school methods. This includes new advancements such as:

  • Pipe bursting
  • Pipe reaming
  • Laser-guided horizontal boring
  • Directional drilling
  • And more

With so many options, you can fit your timeline and budgetary constraints while providing the infrastructure needed to make people’s lives easier during a global pandemic.

Although planning and civil engineering projects in the COVID era require special attention to detail, they’re still as feasible as they were in the pre-COVID age. By hiring a reputable contractor and creating and adhering to a plan, municipalities can overcome COVID with success and future plans in case history should repeat itself. Even during a global pandemic, that’s something to take solace in.

EPS Inc. dba Express Plumbing is an underground civil engineering contractor serving the entire Bay Area for multiple decades.  Rely on our experience and advanced equipment to get your project done on time and within budget.  Let’s discuss any upcoming project together, begin by contacting us for a meeting today.

  • 25
    Dec 20
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Underground Design and Construction Requires Proper Planning

Underground Design and Construction Requires Proper Planning

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Urban development is more than just commercial and residential zoning. It requires careful planning of several aspects that aren’t visible to politicians or the businesses or residents living there. Notably, this pertains to underground infrastructure and construction. Without proper planning of this facet, the area won’t get the utilities and services it requires. So to sustain urban development and build a better area for the present and future, here are some vital components of underground design and building.


How Underground Construction Affects Urban Planning


Urban development is a process where a city or municipality plans land use through detailed plans that apply to land use, zoning, and other considerations. Until relatively recently, this didn’t always concern underground design and construction, especially for areas that didn’t require underground transit.

But times have changed with respect to underground utilities and infrastructure. More governments want to place wires and pipes for gas, electricity, and the internet underground for numerous reasons. Not only does it prevent potential damage from weather or man-made disasters, but it also eliminates some of the eyesores associated with above-ground utilities.

As a result, city planners, project managers, underground construction companies, and utility companies must all have an in-depth knowledge of subsurface design and construction.

Geological Excavation


Geological excavation is one of the most vital parts of urban planning, yet this requires more than surveying for gas and electrical lines. In some municipalities, this may necessitate an excavation for Native American or American historical artifacts, as well as a search for any valuable deposits or minerals.

Furthermore, geological excavation must be done correctly to ensure the sturdiness and integrity of the ground after the excavation is complete. This is an arduous and time-consuming process. But without this step, urban development can fall behind schedule or go over budget.


Underground Assessment

Going hand-in-hand with geological excavation is an underground assessment. This assessment should determine the potential for underground utilities and construction in a specific area. By conducting this assessment, blueprints and plans are far easier to draft, resulting in a more straightforward approach to underground construction.

In addition, this underground assessment will factor into where utilities are placed based on the soil type. For example, clay, sand, and silt are not ideal for building, as frost or drainage issues can plague certain utilities long after construction.


Choosing the Right Underground Design and Construction Company


Whether urban development requires a company to assess, excavate, design, or build underground systems, they should always go with a reputable business. Companies that fit the mold often have the same characteristics, including:
The right equipment for the task, including underground technology that’s minimally invasive to the surface.
Experience in underground design and construction, as well as urban development
Knowledgeable staff from managers to laborers

While urban development certainly has potential pitfalls and other issues, this shouldn’t act as a deterrent for growing cities and municipalities. With EPS Engineering, a thorough development proposal, and contingency plans, urban development can turn a blighted area under budget and on time.

For multiple decades now, EPS Engineering has partnered with local municipalities on some of the most complex underground projects. Our in-depth experiences combined with an excellent team and the largest fleet of advanced equipment, allows us to deliver successful project in time and within budget every time. Give us a call and let’s discuss your next project.

  • 10
    Aug 18
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Bay Area underground pipe repair by eps express plumbing

Cost Effective Pipe Repair or Replacement Solution

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If you own a home or business and you’ve been receiving a high water bill lately, you’ll more than likely have a leak and need a pipe repair or replacement done quickly!
Not taking care of leaks right away will only increase those bills, so there’s no time to waste and you’ll need a plumber that acts fast. EPS Express Plumbing is a Bay Area pipe repair and replacement expert. We offer solutions that meet budgets and deadlines.

Pipe Repair or Replacement?

First thing we will do is evaluate the situation and provide you with a FREE no obligation estimate. The cost will obviously vary whether it’s a repair or a complete replacement.
Unlike other plumbing companies, EPS doesn’t have to get to the pipes by digging up your lawn, tearing down the walls, or floors. We simply choose one access point and give you a cost-effective pipe repair or replacement without leaving a mess behind.

If the area is dug up just to locate a pipeline, just imagine the added cost to get it back to normal.

Our pipe repair or replacement services are offered to residential clients, businesses, and municipalities throughout the entire Bay Area. We’ve been repairing, installing, and connecting pipes since 1989.

Pipe Repair or Replacement Efficiency

We have dedicated equipment and an experienced crew to get the job done quickly. The faster it’s done, the less expensive it is for you as the client. Depending on the size of the project, many of which can be done in one or two days.

Check out our recently completed pipe repair project in Daly City, using the trenchless pipe reaming technique on 1700 feet of 18” High Density Polyethylene pipe installed through the existing old 12” vitrify clay pipe.

No matter what size project you need our Bay Area underground pipe repair team for, EPS Express Plumbing is eager and ready to help.
You can always rely on us to provide you with simple, cost effective, and long lasting trenchless pipe repair, and pipe replacement solutions.

EPS Express Plumbing is the #1 referred building, engineering, and plumbing contractor in the Bay Area among homeowners, business owners, builders, and municipalities.
Don’t let a small leak turn into a plumbing disaster, contact us quickly. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week including holidays and weekends, and consider ourselves the Bay Area’s emergency response team.

  • 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.

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