Underground infrastructure is easy to take for granted when everything is working properly. We expect these systems to drain stormwater from roadways and transport wastewater without issue; however, without proper maintenance, this infrastructure can fail. That may lead to public safety issues, major inconvenience, and expensive repairs.
Proactive infrastructure maintenance gives municipalities and community managers peace of mind and control over repair costs. Routine inspections, cleaning, and timely repairs help identify problems before they develop into emergencies. They also provide information needed to plan projects and preserve existing infrastructure. Once issues are identified, quick repairs can help resolve them before they become major headaches.
At Atlantic Pipe Services (APS), we help communities to ensure their underground infrastructure is operating as expected and resolve problems before major issues arise. Here is how proactive infrastructure maintenance can protect your community and your budget.
Start With Routine Inspections and Cleanings
Don’t wait for a flooded roadway or sewer backup before you take action. Pipeline deficiencies often develop gradually, and the absence of visible damage or a major problem does not necessarily mean the system is in good condition. This is why it’s so important to have your system inspected regularly.
Sediment, debris, and roots can easily obstruct water flow, while cracks and separated joints may go unnoticed underground. Professional infrastructure inspections and cleanings can uncover these issues before they become bigger problems.
We recommend starting with a CCTV inspection so you can examine the interior of a pipeline without excavating its entire length. This inspection will help you identify defects and pinpoint their location. It will also provide you with a clear understanding of where attention and investment are needed.
A good cleaning is also important for long-term durability. Jetting can remove accumulated materials, improve flow, and expose defects that may otherwise be concealed by debris. Regular cleaning helps prevent buildups and can keep your system healthy longer. Both a visual inspection and a cleaning should be done annually, at a minimum, to keep your system in shape. Doing so will ultimately save you time and money in the long run.
Address Repair Needs Early
If your inspection and cleaning uncover an issue, it’s important to respond as soon as possible. Your contractor can provide a repair plan that reflects the condition of the system. Unresolved damage can quickly accelerate deterioration, often requiring more extensive rehabilitation and higher repair costs. It’s important to note that expenses associated with system failure aren’t limited to infrastructure maintenance. Major issues can damage roadways, disrupt businesses, and affect nearby homes. All of these can turn into major expenses and even safety issues. In addition to regular inspections, addressing repairs early ultimately prevents small issues from escalating and reduces costs.
Also, if your inspection uncovers multiple issues, remember that not every problem requires the same response. You can and should prioritize issues based on severity. For example, a damaged pipe under a roadway may need more urgent attention than a minor crack away from other critical infrastructure.
Trenchless Repairs Can Reduce Disruption
Fixing damaged infrastructure can sometimes be highly disruptive. Depending on the location and damage, some repairs may require road closures and other impacts to above-ground infrastructure.
However, trenchless repairs can significantly reduce that disruption. Depending on the pipe’s condition, trenchless repairs can address damage without the need to open a long trench across roads, sidewalks, or landscaped areas. Trenchless repairs enable contractors to insert a lining into the pipe without excavation. Less excavation means fewer restoration needs and shorter construction times. Many repairs can be done in less than 24 hours, but timing ultimately depends on scope, access, and site conditions.
Identifying issues early through regular inspections can increase the likelihood that trenchless repairs can solve your problems.
Proactive infrastructure maintenance helps cities and communities keep stormwater and sewer pipelines functioning while reducing costs and disruptions. Inspections reveal problems, cleaning improves performance, and timely repairs help extend the life of the existing system. Maintenance also helps keep communities and properties safe, especially during major storms. If you need help keeping your underground infrastructure in good condition, get in touch with APS today.
