Selecting the right pipe size is a crucial element in construction projects. While sizing down may be tempting, as it will initially seem to save you money, you’ll end up paying more in service costs and energy costs over time. It’s important to optimize pipe size from the start of your project to ensure their longevity and reliability.

Read on to learn why it may be time to consider upsizing your pipes and how to most effectively upsize your pipes using a trenchless pipe bursting system.

Why should you upsize pipes?

When pipes are too small, the velocity of fluid moving through them is increased. This can promote corrosion or pitting in the pipe, meaning you’ll have to replace them sooner than you’d like. How do you know the existing plumbing may be in need of restoration or replacement? There are a number of tell-tale signs your pipes need attention, including:

● Water from faucets develops a rusty color

● Water bills increase without significant changes in usage habits

● Drains clog more frequently than they should

● Water pressure is weakening or becomes inconsistent

Increasing your pipe size could not only prevent unnecessary corrosion and increase their overall longevity, it could also improve dynamic water pressure. Because larger pipes reduce pressure loss due to friction in a given water source, you may notice stronger water pressure in your faucets if your pipes were too small to begin with. Generally speaking, increasing pipe size, even just one size up, is advisable both practically and in terms of value. Doing so allows for additional pipe capacity in the event that they experience increased loading conditions over time.

How do you upsize pipes?

If you do decide to replace your pipes with larger diameter pipes, using a pipe bursting system to do so is the way to go. This method allows you to replace underground pipes without trenching by running an expansion bursting head through existing pipes. The burst head bursts or splits the pipes apart by expanding beyond their capacity. Once this is done, new pipes connected to the bursting head are pulled in through the old pipeline at the same time. This green technology saves time and money. This method minimizes your carbon footprint by up to 50%. Pipe bursting can also prevent excavating your driveway or digging up your flower beds. 

The pipe bursting system can be used to replace old pipes with some of a similar diameter or a larger diameter, although there are special considerations for larger upsizing projects. If you do a large upsize, more energy is required and there is the possibility for significant ground movement, as the bursting head will need to displace not only the old pipe, but also the surrounding soil to accommodate a bigger pipe.

If you’re interested in learning if a pipe bursting system is right for your job and getting more information about what you’ll need to utilize this method in your next project, contact Trenchless Equipment today. We offer high-quality and affordable pipe bursting tools and accessories in both standard and custom configured systems that are tailored to the specific work you want to

do moving forward. In addition to top-of-the-line equipment, we also offer training on how to use the systems you buy from us, ensuring you’re able to use them right the first time. Get in touch to learn more!