Making the decision between repairing or replacing deteriorated water pipes is often quite difficult. Yet, the importance of this question is undeniable, with aging infrastructure in the waterworks sector being one of the leading causes of water loss, both in the U.S. and globally.

Although there are many high-quality repair options and materials on the market, such as the Hymax repair clamps available for sale, temporary pipe repair is not always the best solution. Unfortunately, budgetary restraints often prevent US municipalities from upgrading deteriorated pipes, which causes them to make repairs until a long-term replacement solution can be financed.

Nevertheless, both pipe repair and replacement have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. Because of this, there are numerous factors that go into choosing the option which makes the most financial and practical sense.

Is it better to replace or repair a pipe?

There are three main factors that should be considered when deciding between pipe repair and replacement. These are:

• Complaints from users: the response of utilities in the case of water and wastewater issues is often dictated by customers. If water service to residential and commercial properties is unreliable, customers will expect dependable solutions which minimize service interruptions.
• Cost: repeated pipe repairs are one of the first signs that a pipe may need a replacement. Eventually, the costs involved in repeated repairs will outweigh the costs of replacement, especially if utility crews keep visiting and repairing the same pipe section.
• Field data: Making a sound decision on pipe repair or replacement can be facilitated by properly keeping records, evaluating pipe repair data, and noticing relevant trends. Solid data from neighborhood businesses and residences can also contribute to making an informed decision.

How often do pipes need to be replaced?

Since piping replacement tends to be very costly, aging water lines aren’t replaced as often as they probably should be. Unfortunately, many water distribution pipes supplying Americans with drinking water are nearing or have passed retirement age. For instance, some water mains used in Philadelphia were installed before the Civil War.

However, the pipe age is only one part of the story. How often a particular pipe will deteriorate and crack will depend on a variety of factors, including:

• Pipe material: different piping materials have different lifespans. For example, concrete pipes usually last between 50 and 75 years, while cast-iron pipes can last over 100 years with proper maintenance.
• Chemical properties of water and soil: certain environmental conditions can corrode pipes faster than others. The corrosion is affected by factors such as the alkalinity and pH value of the water and the acidity of the soil.
• The climate: if an area is prone to drought or frequent cycles of freezing and thawing, the rate of pipe deterioration may be significantly increased. Frequent pipe inspections are particularly important in such locations.

Explore our offer of Hymax repair clamps for sale and much more

Blair Supply Corp. works hard to help the U.S. water and wastewater distribution industry combat aging infrastructure and minimize the risks of pipe deterioration. We have been recognized as a leader in the New York State utility distribution industry ever since 1958, thanks to our active involvement and support of industry associations, as well as the quality of our products.

Whether you are looking for the best equipment for repairing pinhole leaks in copper pipes or need a long-term replacement solution, make sure to visit our website. Our offer of piping repair and replacement materials includes everything from Krausz clamps and couplings and quality HDPE pipes to innovative Integrity Fusion products. With warehouses in Avoca, Rochester, and Watertown and streamlined nationwide shipping, we can meet your pipe supply needs no matter where you are located. Check out our offer today!