Field-Tested Truths

We recently reviewed an in-depth analysis of piping systems across the U.S. that identified trends in piping system requirements over the medium and longer term. The study focused on understanding why specific materials were chosen for both new and replacement installations. It also sought to identify how utilities, developers, and contractors prioritized various pipe characteristics.

The following quotes represent a range of viewpoints from managers of these organizations and reflect professional observations based on what did and did not work for their piping systems over the course of years and decades of use.

Roughly half of respondents were engineers at a senior level. Other roles included materials managers and purchasers, construction supervisors, and field operations personnel. To maintain respondent anonymity, the study cited only the organization’s size (number of connections) and their EPA region.

“Copper is not permeable to pollutants, which is a big issue with plastic. We’re an industrial area, and there are contaminants in the ground.” (EPA Region 3; 52,000 Connections)

“…Poly (which breaks the most) is being used. Often, people hire plumbers to put in copper service,