Tag Archives: underground pipe replacement

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 27
    Feb 21
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Commercial Underground Pipes and Proper Maintenance

Commercial Underground Pipes and Proper Maintenance

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Just like residential plumbing systems, underground lines and pipes for municipalities and commercial properties can take a beating over time. That’s why local governments and business owners should familiarize themselves with the importance of proper maintenance for underground pipes and utilities. With routine maintenance and consistent monitoring, these pipes will provide their intended services without the risk of catastrophe.

Trenchless Technology and Its Role in Underground Pipe Maintenance

Underground pipe maintenance isn’t a simple fix, or at least traditionally. But over the past decade or so, trenchless technology has been a saving grace in the industry. Without the need to dig huge holes manually or with heavy machinery, the amount of time needed to fix underground pipes has been halved or become even more efficient than that.

In addition, studies show that nearly $1 trillion of aging water and sewage pipes across American will need to be replaced within the next 25 years. But with trenchless technology techniques such as directional drilling, microtunneling, pipe ramming, and pipe bursting, municipalities and commercial properties can fix the issue on time and under budget.

Sewer Rehabilitation

Destroyed over time by roots, natural wear, and tear, and other environmental factors, sewer pipes are always a concern for homeowners, commercial property owners, and municipalities. But with the advent of trenchless technology for pipes and maintenance, how people approach the problem has changed drastically.

Again, instead of digging a hole and searching for signs of aging or leaks, trenchless tech provides an easier way to fix any issues. Small, flexible cameras can find signs of potential problems. Once these issues are discovered by the technician, pipe bursting (installing a larger pipe inside the original pipe by breaking the old pipe), slip lining (installing a smaller pipe in the original pipe, or cured-in-place piping is administered.

Using any of these techniques can prevent a full-scale project with holes and potential hazards present in highly trafficked areas. And with the addition of trenchless technologies, governments may even save money due to the less amount of man hours per project.

Time Is a Major Factor

Time is always a major factor with regard to underground pipes and infrastructure repair. And that’s what makes trenchless solutions such an excellent choice for a project. With less setup work, easy operation of the machinery, and quicker repairs, trenchless options provide a fast option for projects where time is of the essence.

Hiring the Right Company for Underground Pipes and Maintenance

With the latest breakthroughs in underground maintenance technology, municipalities should begin to take a proactive approach to underground infrastructure. The more they can monitor pipes and provide maintenance, the less of a chance that a major problem is likely to occur.

But these same government entities and companies should also be wary about who they hire for the work, as not just any company will do. Therefore, they should look for a company with the right mix of modernized equipment, a skilled staff, and years of experience. By doing so, maintenance of pipes and underground systems becomes a routine expense that offers a fully working solution to plumbing, sewer, and other utilities.

EPS Inc. dba Express Plumbing has been serving the Bay Area since 1989.  We are an advanced civil engineering and plumbing contractor.  Our fleet of advanced equipment combined with our experienced technicians can get the project done within budget and on time.

If you have an upcoming project, contact Nick Bechwati today to discuss plans.

  • 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.

  • 24
    Nov 20
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Domestic Drinking Water and City Infrastructure

Domestic Drinking Water and City Infrastructure

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Clean water is essential for a high quality of life throughout the world. In westernized nations, the dependence on domestic water lines and treatment plants to deliver this water shouldn’t be understated. That’s why maintenance on these systems are so important. Without a trusted civil engineering firm providing top-notch service, clean water can become a concern for municipalities. To improve city infrastructure and domestic drinking water capabilities, local governments shouldn’t opt for second-best or cost-cutting measures.

A Quick History of Clean Drinking Water

Drinking water comes from a variety of sources. While some areas rely on lakes, rivers, or reservoirs, others obtain their water from underground aquifers. However, it wasn’t until 1974 that the U.S. government established the Safe Drinking Water Act. This piece of legislation appointed the EPA as an authority over all water purification processes and set the standard of water cleanliness on a national scale.

The Importance of Clean Drinking Water

Clean drinking water is more than just a quick drink out of the faucet. It’s an important facet of everyday life. Everything from cooking to showering requires clean water to prevent the incidence of waterborne illnesses. And although the United States has one of the world’s cleanest water supplies, obstacles still remain to maintain this privilege to the general public.

Water Line Maintenance Concerns in the United States

Maintaining clean water is far more involved than many people realize. According to the Centers for Disease Control, many water pipes and systems—even in urbanized areas—are more than 100 years old. As a result, these systems are more susceptible to cracked or burst pipes and water main breaks that can result in boil orders or contaminated water.

Moreover, the American Water Works Association estimates that repairing existing systems and expanding drinking water systems to reach a sprawling suburban migration will cost up to $1 trillion over the next 25 years.

Using a Trusted Civil Engineering Company to Maintain Domestic Water Lines

As more and more systems require maintenance, municipalities must act quickly to keep their clean water pipes from falling into disrepair. Yet not just any company is up to the task. As a result, local governments must choose a trusted civil engineering company to maintain domestic water lines.

EPS Inc. dba Express Plumbing has years of experience in the industry, an expert staff to get the job done, and a proven track record for water line maintenance, installation, and repair. In addition, we have the proper equipment. This includes separate equipment for working on drinking water lines as opposed to sewer lines to limit the chance of contamination and waterborne illnesses.

Clean drinking water isn’t just a benefit of citizens; it’s something that should be a human right. But even in countries such as the U.S., outdated infrastructure and less experienced companies put this right at risk. Therefore, a reputable civil engineering company is the only true solution to the problems associated with maintenance, installation, and repair of water lines. It may cost a bit more, but the results will speak for themselves. If you’d like to discuss a Bay Area underground construction or civil engineering project with our team, give us a call and we’ll be happy to assist.  No project is too large or too small for our experienced team to handle, we’ll be happy to share our large portfolio of complete project over the past two decades with you

  • 25
    Oct 20
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All About Underground CasingConduit Installations

All About Underground Casing/Conduit Installations

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DIY homeowners are an adventurous bunch. They turn to YouTube or books to figure out how to maintain their home at a fraction of the cost of hiring contractors. However, this is problematic in a variety of scenarios. One of them is the installation of underground conduit. While the idea of this installation seems relatively straightforward, every jurisdiction has their own guidelines and rules regarding underground conduit/casing. Therefore, homeowners—and even local municipalities—should consult a professional before undertaking such a project.

Experience Matters

When you’re working with electrical lines, safety becomes a concern. And this is primarily why a DIY installer should go with an experienced installer. Without the knowledge and expertise of underground conduit installations, these projects can put the novice installer and even the entire community at risk.

The fact remains: not everyone understands the scope, precision, and time that goes into such an undertaking. As a result, those who need an underground conduit installation should always consider a highly trained professional. These companies have the equipment, manpower, and knowledge to complete the task without the risk of major complications. In addition, the transfer of liability from the DIYer to a licensed and bonded company can further reduce the risk of financial responsibility if a catastrophic event should occur.

Meeting Legal Requirements

Every municipality and jurisdiction has its own legal requirements and codes regarding underground conduit/casing installation. For those unfamiliar with the terminology or other building codes, this can provide a hurdle that can lead to sunken costs or legal trouble. Some examples might include:

  • How to install conduit into the electrical meter of the home
  • How deep to bury the conduit as required by law?
  • The maximum angle/degree of bends in the conduit
  • Types of PVC piping required by law
  • How to glue together joints
  • Where and how to install caution ribbon below the surface
  • If drainage systems are necessary

These are just a few of the considerations our professional installers must make before and during the process. With the sheer amount of knowledge necessary to complete underground conduit installation, the process can seem overwhelming to novice people.

Civil Engineers Are the Preferred Choice

Once DIY homeowners or municipalities figure out that they’re not apt to handle such a massive job, the next decision is who to hire. While an electrician or electrical company may seem like an obvious choice, civil engineering firms are the preferred installer.

Why choose a civil engineering company over an electrician? Simply because most electricians’ expertise is on above-ground wiring and components. They may not have the expertise or equipment to handle underground conduit/casing installations. Conversely, civil engineering firms regularly handle underground installation of various utility lines. Therefore, homeowners and local governments should always consider a civil engineering company over an electrician. Positive results depend on it.

Between meeting local building codes and the potential for problems during underground conduit installations, hiring a reputable, experienced civil engineering firm is a sound decision. While the overall expenditure may be higher, knowing that your conduit installation is done correctly can make a world of difference. That’s peace of mind that’s worth the price.

EPS Inc. dba Express Plumbing specializes as a Bay Area civil engineering & underground construction contractor.  For multiple decades we have served homeowners, business owners and municipalities by providing expertise that get the job done.

Contact us to discuss any upcoming underground construction project, we are eager to assist you anywhere in the Bay Area.

  • 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.

  • 15
    Oct 18
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underground utility contractor bay area

What is Underground Utility Construction?  EPS Explains

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EPS Inc dba Express Plumbing provides underground utility construction and maintenance in and around the Bay Area.  Our underground utility division is considered a one-stop-shop that eliminates the need for hiring multiple contractors.

Underground Utility Construction Explained

Underground construction has been around for years, from underground tunnels, to earth shelters, it’s nothing new.  However underground utility construction relates to cables, tunnels, and pipes underground that require replacement, repair, or new installations.

Major underground pipelines may involve utility power lines, communication lines, water, and sewer.  EPS Inc specializes in installing, repairing and maintaining these underground lines quickly and efficiently using advanced equipment and techniques.

Underground line mapping allows us to identify possible buried cable and pipe under the ground.  Our engineering services are relied upon by municipalities, developers, and other industries to relocate the pipes, install new sewer systems or water systems, run power or telecommunication cables, all below the ground we walk on.

We are also the Bay Area’s underground emergency response team.  The EPS team works on emergency water breaks and sewer stoppages no matter when they happen.  We operate 24/7 including holidays and weekends to resolve any underground system deficiencies.

Underground Utility Solutions with EPS

Our motto at EPS is simple, there are no problems, only solutions.  Our engineering capabilities, advanced equipment, coupled with years of experience in providing underground utility construction services for the commercial, residential and municipal sector means you only deal with us as your underground utility contractor, not multiple entities.

OSHA Trained Underground Utility Crew

We only hire the most experienced, reliable, and competent crew the industry has to offer.

Our underground utility crew provides maintenance support and new installations for water systems, sewer systems, telecommunication, power, and more.

Safety is always our top priority and every project we take not only meets but exceeds the most stringent requirements.

Since 1989, we’ve been providing underground utility construction solutions that are reliable, accurate, and efficient.  Our completed underground utility projects in the Bay Area speak for themselves.

To discuss possible upcoming projects, contact Nick Bechwati for an on-site meeting and project outline assessment.

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