The Pipe Blog

We all know that is true, but a reminder never hurts. I’ve worked for decades with a variety of construction product manufacturers and only realized in recent years the true value of expanding competition. Historically, companies worked to get an advantage in specifications with minor inclusions (I remember one being the color of the stripe on the pipe as being critical!). Proactively working to consider and include every legitimate product in designs and specifications, however, has proven to be the best path.

Before I started my career at Contech, I used to joke that I was the tour manager for Guns N’ Roses. In this completely fictional version of events, however, I actually was!

This Pipe Blog article explores how effective drainage systems play a critical role in reducing hydroplaning potential, highlighting the importance of proper surface design and sheet flow interception. The article focuses on the benefits of Slotted Drain systems for capturing rainwater runoff across wide, flat airport surfaces such as runways, taxiways, and maintenance areas. Backed by decades of proven performance and extensive hydraulic testing, Slotted Drain provides continuous surface drainage, high structural strength for heavy aircraft loading, and long-term durability with multiple coating options designed to withstand harsh airport environments, including areas exposed to de-icing chemicals.

One of the largest concerns municipalities have when sliplining an existing pipe structure is if the liner pipe will fit inside the host pipe. There are a myriad of potential host pipe problems which determine liner pipe clearance.

America’s Wastewater Infrastructure is currently rated at a D+, according to the 2025 ASCE Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. The Wastewater category includes both piping for the collection systems and the wastewater treatment plants the piping leads to. The collection system alone experiences 3.3 failures per 100 miles of pipe every year, putting pressure on maintenance teams to identify suspect pipes for either complete replacement or pipeline rehabilitation. This article will focus on the design and construction considerations necessary when a pipeline owner determines they will be rehabilitating an existing pipe.

Unlike circular pipes, arch-shaped culverts present a unique challenge when it comes to structural rehabilitation. Their non-round geometry and sometimes integrated parapet walls mean that standard sliplining methods don't always apply. However, just because a culvert isn’t round doesn't mean it can’t be effectively relined.

We are often asked, “How much does a reline project cost?” While this is a straightforward question, the answer depends on multiple factors. Before attempting to provide a cost estimate, it’s important to consider the broader perspective—particularly in comparison to traditional open-cut replacement.

Storm sewers are essential in managing rainwater and stormwater, ensuring that our streets and neighborhoods are protected from flooding. Advanced storm sewer systems not only offer enhanced performance but also provide significant cost benefits and ease of installation

Corrugated steel pipe (CSP) has been a staple in various infrastructure projects due to its strength and flexibility. However, its durability has historically been a point of concern, particularly with galvanized steel, which has shown suboptimal performance in certain environments.

Choosing the right culvert or buried bridge structure is crucial for any site application. While this may seem straightforward, it involves numerous practical and functional considerations. Project engineers and site developers must address these factors early in the planning stages.