Storm Pipe Repair & Replacement

Storm Pipe Repair & Replacement in Palm Beach County, Florida

Professional storm drainage pipe repair and replacement services throughout Palm Beach County and surrounding South Florida areas. Thum Co. Contractors repairs damaged underground storm pipes, replaces deteriorated drainage lines, and maintains stormwater conveyance systems that protect properties from flooding and water damage.

Our storm pipe repair team serves West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, and surrounding areas. We diagnose pipe problems, excavate and repair failures, and replace damaged sections restoring proper drainage function.

Call (561) 366-2050 for a free storm pipe repair estimate in Palm Beach County.

Common Storm Pipe Problems

Pipe Collapse and Crushing

Underground storm pipes fail from soil pressure, vehicle loads exceeding pipe strength, or deterioration weakening structures. Collapsed pipes block drainage completely, causing backups and flooding.

Shallow pipes under driveways or parking areas are particularly vulnerable to crushing from heavy vehicle loads. We replace collapsed sections throughout Palm Beach County properties.

Joint Separation

Storm pipes connect at joints using gaskets, couplings, or other connection methods. Joint failures from settlement, ground movement, or installation defects allow soil infiltration, create voids, and may cause surface depressions or sinkholes.

Separated joints also allow water to escape pipes rather than flowing to discharge points, creating erosion and undermining problems.

Root Intrusion

Tree roots seeking moisture infiltrate storm pipes through joints or cracks. Root growth blocks pipes, restricts flow, and eventually causes pipe failure requiring repair or replacement.

Properties with mature landscaping throughout South Florida frequently experience root intrusion in storm drainage systems.

Pipe Deterioration

Older corrugated metal pipes corrode and deteriorate over time. Concrete pipes can deteriorate from chemical exposure or age. Deterioration weakens pipes leading to collapse or breakthrough failures.

We replace deteriorated pipe sections before complete failure creates larger problems throughout Palm Beach County.

Erosion and Undermining

Water escaping from damaged pipes erodes surrounding soil, creating voids around and under pipes. This undermining leads to further pipe damage, surface settlement, and eventually sinkholes or surface collapses.

Repairing pipe damage prevents progressive undermining throughout storm drainage systems.

Sediment Accumulation

Pipes collecting excessive sediment lose capacity and may become completely blocked. While cleaning solves some sediment problems, pipes with damaged inverts, severe sags, or structural damage may require replacement.

Storm Pipe Repair Methods

Excavation and Spot Repair

Storm pipe repair excavation Palm Beach County

For localized damage, we excavate to expose failed pipe sections, remove damaged portions, install new pipe sections, restore proper connections, backfill properly, and restore surface conditions.

Spot repairs fix isolated problems without replacing entire pipe runs, minimizing cost and disruption throughout Palm Beach County properties.

Complete Pipe Replacement

Severely damaged, deteriorated, or inadequate pipes require complete replacement. We excavate pipe runs, remove failed pipes, install new pipes at proper grades and alignments, make all connections, backfill properly, and restore surfaces.

Complete replacement provides new drainage systems designed for current needs throughout South Florida.

Storm Pipe Materials We Install

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

Rigid PVC storm pipe is common for residential and commercial applications. PVC resists corrosion, provides smooth interior surfaces for efficient flow, and offers long service life. Available in various diameters and pressure ratings.

We install PVC storm pipe for most new installations and replacements in Palm Beach County.

HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)

Flexible HDPE pipe works well where ground movement occurs or where flexibility benefits installation. HDPE resists chemicals and corrosion, handles temperature variations, and provides long service life.

Dual-wall HDPE pipe combines strength with lighter weight, making it efficient for larger diameter installations.

Concrete Pipe

Drainage pipe replacement installation Palm Beach

Reinforced concrete pipe provides strength for deep installations or heavy loading conditions. Available in various classes and strengths for different applications.

We install concrete pipe where strength requirements, specifications, or design conditions require throughout South Florida.

Corrugated Metal Pipe (CMP)

Galvanized or aluminized corrugated metal pipe works for some applications, though longevity concerns in South Florida’s environment often favor plastic alternatives. CMP remains specified for certain applications or where existing systems require matching.

The Pipe Repair Process

1. Problem Assessment

We inspect drainage problems to identify pipe issues. This may involve visual inspection of accessible points, video camera inspection when available, or excavation at suspected failure locations.

2. Excavation Planning

We plan excavation routes minimizing landscape impact, coordinating utility locations, and determining access for equipment throughout Palm Beach County properties.

3. Excavation and Exposure

Using excavators appropriate for conditions, we excavate trenches exposing damaged pipes. Excavation extends beyond damage to reach sound pipe sections for connections.

4. Pipe Removal

We remove damaged pipe sections, clean connection points, and prepare for new pipe installation.

5. New Pipe Installation

We install new pipe at proper grades (minimum 1% slope typical), make watertight connections at both ends, bed pipes properly on stable bases, and ensure correct alignment.

6. Backfill and Compaction

Proper backfilling is critical. We place initial bedding around pipes, backfill in controlled lifts, compact each layer preventing future settlement, and restore proper grades.

7. Surface Restoration

We restore lawn areas, replace pavement sections, or otherwise return surfaces to pre-excavation conditions throughout Palm Beach County.

8. System Testing

When practical, we test repairs by running water through systems verifying proper flow and checking for leaks before final backfill.

Emergency Storm Pipe Repairs

Pipe failures causing immediate flooding, undermining driveways or structures, or creating hazardous conditions require emergency response. We provide emergency storm pipe repair throughout Palm Beach County.

Emergency repairs focus on stopping immediate problems and preventing additional damage. Permanent repairs or complete replacements may follow once emergencies are resolved.

Preventive Maintenance

Regular inspection and maintenance prevent many pipe failures:

Periodic Cleaning: Removing sediment before accumulation causes damage extends pipe life and maintains capacity.

Root Control: Treating pipes in areas with mature trees prevents root intrusion before it causes damage.

Inspection: Video camera inspection of accessible pipes identifies developing problems before failures occur.

Prompt Minor Repairs: Addressing small issues before they become major failures prevents costly emergency repairs throughout South Florida.

Pipe Sizing and Capacity

Replacement pipes should be properly sized for drainage requirements. Undersized pipes create backups and flooding. We assess drainage areas and flow requirements when replacing pipes, upgrading sizes when necessary.

Palm Beach County’s intense rainfall requires adequate pipe capacity. What seemed sufficient decades ago may be undersized for current storm intensity and developed conditions.

Permits and Regulations

Storm pipe repairs typically don’t require permits unless work involves:

  • Right-of-way or easement areas
  • Connection to municipal systems
  • Major drainage system modifications
  • New construction or development

We advise on permit requirements and handle applications when necessary for Palm Beach County projects.

Combining Repairs with Improvements

Pipe repair projects offer opportunities for drainage improvements:

Capacity Upgrades: Installing larger pipes increases drainage capacity solving chronic flooding problems.

System Extensions: Adding catch basins or extending systems during repairs improves overall drainage.

Material Upgrades: Replacing corroded metal pipes with PVC or HDPE provides long-term reliability.

We coordinate pipe repairs with drainage improvements throughout South Florida properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does storm pipe repair cost? Costs vary based on pipe diameter, depth, repair length, and access conditions. Simple repairs may range $1,500-$4,000. Extensive replacements can cost $50-$100+ per linear foot depending on conditions. Contact us at (561) 366-2050 for estimates based on your situation.

How do you locate damaged storm pipes? We use information from surface conditions (settling, wet areas, sinkholes), inspect accessible points (manholes, catch basins), and may use video camera inspection. Sometimes exploratory excavation is necessary to confirm damage locations.

Can you repair pipes without excavation? Some damage can be repaired using trenchless methods like pipe lining, but most repairs require excavation for proper access and permanent fixes throughout Palm Beach County.

How long does pipe repair take? Small spot repairs typically take 1-2 days. Larger replacements may take several days depending on length and conditions. Access challenges or extensive restoration extend timelines.

What causes pipes to fail? Common causes include improper installation, inadequate pipe strength for loads, root intrusion, age-related deterioration, soil movement or settlement, and erosion from leaks or separated joints.

Will you restore my lawn/driveway after excavation? Yes, we restore surfaces to pre-excavation conditions. Lawn areas get regraded for sod, pavement sections get replaced, and landscaping gets restored throughout Palm Beach County properties.

Can you replace pipes in difficult access areas? Yes, we work in tight residential areas, through landscaping, and in locations requiring careful access planning. Equipment selection and excavation methods adapt to site conditions.

Do you provide warranty on pipe repairs? Yes, we warranty our pipe repair work. Specific warranty terms depend on repair type and conditions but typically cover workmanship and materials for one year or more.

Storm pipe repair often involves additional work:

Get Your Storm Pipe Repair Estimate

Experiencing storm pipe problems in Palm Beach County? Contact Thum Co. Contractors for professional pipe repair and replacement services.

Call (561) 366-2050 for storm pipe repair.

Thum Co. Contractors 468 Tall Pines Rd. West Palm Beach, FL 33415

Licensed building contractors providing storm pipe repair and replacement throughout Palm Beach County and surrounding South Florida areas since 2017.