Are your sewer pipes constantly giving you headaches? Do you live in an older property and have been told that your plumbing system is made of Orangeburg pipes?
Don’t worry!
San Diego Pipelining is here to save the day with our cutting-edge pipe rehabilitation services.
What is Orangeburg Pipe?
An Orangeburg pipe, also known as bituminous fiber pipe, is a type of sewer pipe that was commonly used in residential plumbing systems from the 1940s to the early 1970s. It was invented and first produced in Orangeburg, New York, which is how it got its name.
Orangeburg pipes are made from a combination of layers of wood pulp and coal tar pitch. The manufacturing process involves saturating layers of wood fibers with coal tar pitch, forming a dense and lightweight pipe. The pipe was then usually coated with a layer of hot coal tar pitch on the outside for added protection.
These pipes were initially intended as a cheaper alternative to metal pipes during World War II but were never meant for long-term use. Composed of layers of wood pulp and coal tar pitch, Orangeburg pipes were prone to several issues over time, leading to significant headaches for homeowners.
Over time, Orangeburg pipes can degrade and lose their structural integrity, leading to a variety of issues such as leaks, cracks, root intrusions, and even pipe collapse. The coal tar pitch used in these pipes can also seep into the ground, posing environmental concerns.
How to Identify Orangeburg Pipe?
Orangeburg pipes are typically dark brown or black and have a somewhat fibrous appearance due to their composition of layers of wood pulp and coal tar pitch. They are also known for their flexibility, which allows them to be bent and shaped to some extent.
Another potential indicator is an external coating of coal tar pitch, which can give the pipe a glossy appearance.
Common Problems Associated with Orangeburg Pipes
Degradation: Over the years, Orangeburg pipes become brittle and deteriorated, leading to frequent leaks and cracks.
Root Intrusions: As these pipes weaken, tree roots can easily infiltrate the cracks, causing blockages and further damage.
Collapse: The structural integrity of Orangeburg pipes is compromised, making them susceptible to collapse under the weight of the surrounding soil.
Slow Drainage: The buildup of debris and sediment inside the pipe reduces water flow and causes slow drainage. This could lead to backups and potential flooding.
Environmental Impact: The coal tar pitch used in Orangeburg pipes can seep into the ground, contaminating the soil and nearby water sources.
When Did They Stop Using Orangeburg Pipe?
The use of Orangeburg pipe declined significantly in the 1970s. Its production for new installations effectively stopped around the mid-1970s.
By this time, the inherent weaknesses and problems associated with Orangeburg pipes had become evident. This led to a shift towards more durable and long-lasting pipe materials in the plumbing industry.
It is essential to note that some properties built before the 1970s may still have Orangeburg pipes in their plumbing systems.
Do you suspect that your property has Orangeburg pipes and was built before the 1970s? In that case, it is crucial to have the pipes inspected by a professional plumber or pipe inspection service.
They can help you determine the material of your sewer pipes and assess their condition. You can, therefore, avoid potential plumbing issues and plan for any necessary repairs or replacements.
Is Orangeburg Pipe Illegal?
Orangeburg pipes are not illegal.
However, its use has been strongly discouraged and largely discontinued in modern construction due to its known weaknesses and problems.
Many building codes and plumbing regulations have been updated to require the use of more durable and reliable pipe materials. These include materials, such as PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or HDPE (high-density polyethylene), for sewer and drainage systems.
How Much is the Orangeburg Pipe Replacement Cost?
The cost of Orangeburg pipe replacement can vary depending on several factors. These factors include:
- The length of the pipe to be replaced
- The accessibility of the pipes
- The extent of the damage
- The type of replacement material chosen, and
The location of the property.
Orangeburg pipe replacement involves excavating and removing the old pipes, which can be labor-intensive and time-consuming. The replacement material, whether it’s PVC, HDPE, or CIPP lining, will also affect the overall cost.
If there are other plumbing issues discovered during the replacement process, addressing them may also add to the total cost.
San Diego Plumbing and Pipelining Company: The Solution
At San Diego Plumbing and Pipelining, we believe that no homeowner should have to live with the constant worry of a failing plumbing system. That’s why we offer state-of-the-art trenchless pipe rehabilitation services, tailored to combat the specific issues posed by Orangeburg pipes.
Trenchless Technology: Unlike traditional excavation methods that require tearing up your property, our trenchless approach is minimally invasive. Using advanced technology, we rehabilitate your Orangeburg pipes from within, without disrupting your landscaping or daily routine.
Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP) Lining: Our CIPP lining process involves inserting a specially designed resin-saturated liner into the damaged pipe. The liner is then cured in place, creating a new, durable pipe within the existing Orangeburg pipe. The result is a seamless, jointless, and corrosion-resistant pipe that restores functionality and flow capacity.
Increased Longevity: Our CIPP lining solution extends the lifespan of your pipes for up to 50 years, providing a reliable and long-lasting plumbing system.
Environmentally Friendly: Our CIPP lining process is environmentally friendly, eliminating the risk of contaminating the soil and water with harmful substances.
Why Choose San Diego Plumbing and Pipelining Company?
Experience: We have over 20 years of experience in the plumbing industry. We have a proven track record of successfully rehabilitating Orangeburg pipes and a wide range of other plumbing systems.
Trained Experts: Our team consists of highly trained technicians who are experts in trenchless pipe rehabilitation techniques.
Cutting-Edge Technology: We utilize the latest trenchless technology and equipment to ensure efficient and effective pipe rehabilitation.
Cost-Effective: Our trenchless solutions save you money in the long run by avoiding the high costs of traditional excavation and landscaping repairs.
Customer Satisfaction: We are committed to providing excellent customer service and ensuring your complete satisfaction with our work.
Don’t Let Orangeburg Pipes Ruin Your Home!
If you suspect that your property has Orangeburg pipes or recurring plumbing issues, don’t wait for the problem to escalate.
Contact San Diego Plumbing and Pipelining Company today for a thorough inspection and a customized pipe rehabilitation plan. We’ll help you say goodbye to Orangeburg pipe problems and welcome a reliable and durable plumbing system that will stand the test of time.
Contact us to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a worry-free plumbing system!