Underground Pipe Replacements

Underground Pipe Replacements services include:

• Sewer drain cleaning
• Sewer video inspection
• Sewage spill clean up and water damage restoration
• Gas meter earthquake shut off valve
• Backflow Preventer – installation, repair and testing
• Copper Repipe Specialists
• Repiping
• Reroute
• Repairs

For quality and affordable plumbing services in Nairobi and other counties in Kenya, Contact Orchid Plumbing Company to schedule a free plumbing inspection on any of your plumbing equipments. We will advise you in all aspects – from repairs to installation. Your plumbing work will stay durable if the right materials and workmanship is applied appropriately

Underground pipe replacement is a complex process that involves replacing or upgrading pipes that are located beneath the ground. This task is often necessary to address issues such as leaks, corrosion, or the need for a larger capacity. Here are the key steps and considerations involved in underground pipe replacements:

1. Assessment and Planning:

• Inspect Existing Pipes:
  • Determine the condition of the existing pipes through inspections, including CCTV inspections to identify issues such as cracks, leaks, or blockages.
• Identify Material and Size:
  • Determine the material, size, and type of the existing pipes. Different materials (e.g., PVC, copper, cast iron) have different lifespans and characteristics.
• Capacity Assessment:
  • Evaluate whether the existing pipes meet current or future capacity requirements. Upgrading may be necessary for growing or changing needs.
• Regulatory Compliance:
  • Ensure compliance with local regulations and obtain necessary permits for the replacement work.

2. Utilities Location and Marking:

• Locate Underground Utilities:
  • Use utility location services to identify the location of underground utilities (gas, water, electricity) to prevent accidental damage during excavation.
• Marking:
  • Clearly mark the path of existing utilities to guide excavation and prevent interference.

3. Excavation:

• Trenching:
  • Excavate trenches along the path of the existing pipes, ensuring proper depth and width according to local codes and project requirements.
• Equipment:
  • Use appropriate excavation equipment, which may include backhoes, trenchers, or other machinery, depending on the scale and nature of the project.

4. Pipe Removal:

• Safe Disposal:
  • Remove the old pipes carefully, considering environmental regulations for disposal.

5. New Pipe Installation:

• Selecting New Material:
  • Choose suitable pipe material based on factors like durability, corrosion resistance, and compatibility with the intended use.
• Installation Method:
  • Depending on the type of pipe, use methods such as open-cut trenching or trenchless techniques like pipe bursting or directional drilling.

6. Connections and Testing:

• Connect New Pipes:
  • Securely connect the new pipes using appropriate fittings, joints, and welding methods.
• Pressure Testing:
  • Conduct pressure tests to ensure the integrity of the new pipeline.

7. Backfilling and Site Restoration:

• Backfill:
  • Refill the trenches with suitable material, compacting it in layers to prevent settling.
• Surface Restoration:
  • Restore the surface to its original condition, considering landscaping, pavement, or any other features affected by the excavation.

8. Documentation and As-Built Drawings:

• Documentation:
  • Maintain detailed records of the replacement, including materials used, testing results, and any deviations from the original plan.
• As-Built Drawings:
  • Update as-built drawings to reflect the new pipe layout and configurations.

9. Inspection and Approval:

• Inspection:
  • Have the replacement project inspected by relevant authorities or inspectors to ensure compliance with codes and standards.
• Approval:
  • Obtain final approval for the completed work.

10. Monitoring and Maintenance:

• Monitor Performance:
  • Regularly monitor the performance of the new pipes to identify and address any issues promptly.
• Maintenance Plan:
  • Develop a maintenance plan to ensure the longevity of the new underground pipe system.

Safety Considerations:

• Prioritize safety throughout the project, including measures to prevent accidents, protect workers, and ensure public safety.

Professional Assistance:

• Underground pipe replacement is a complex task, and it is often advisable to seek the services of experienced professionals, including engineers, plumbers, and contractors, to ensure the project’s success and compliance with regulations.