Fiberglass Piping Repair
Fiberglass piping systems are increasingly becoming the go-to material among those looking for a durable, corrosion-resistant, and cost-effective material for their plumbing needs.
While fiberglass is an excellent material for piping, it is also subject to damage, so proper maintenance and repair are essential to ensuring your piping system remain in top condition.
This article will discuss the various ways to repair fiberglass piping systems and provide best practices for regular maintenance.
How to Repair Fiberglass Piping Systems
The most common repairs for fiberglass piping systems involve sealing small holes, cracks, or breaks or restoring the structural integrity of the piping. These repairs can be carried out in a few different ways, depending
on the size and nature of the damage.
Minor Damage to FRP Piping Systems
For minor damage, such as small holes or cracks, patch kits are available containing self-vulcanizing tape and compounding putty, which can be used to easily and effectively seal the damage and restore the structural integrity of the fiberglass.
Self-vulcanizing tape is a self-fusing rubber tape made from a butyl-based rubber compound, which expands slightly when exposed to heat and pressure. This provides a secure and reliable seal. Similarly, compounding putty is a two-part silicone-based compound that can be used to fill larger holes or cracks.
Significant Damage to FRP Piping Systems
For more significant damage, replacing a section of the piping may be necessary. This is done by cutting out the section of damaged pipe, taking measurements and cutting a new piece of the same diameter from an appropriate material.
The new piece is then affixed to the remaining parts of the piping system and sealed with additives like soldering flux and sealant.
Best Practices for Maintenance
Properly maintaining a fiberglass piping system is essential to prevent premature damage and failure. Here are some best practices for maintenance and repair:
Check for corrosion or physical damage on a regular basis. These problems should be addressed immediately with patching kits or other repair methods.
Ensure that the piping system is installed correctly, with the right fittings, to prevent unnecessary problems.
Make sure the system is properly insulated, as fiberglass is sensitive to drastic changes in temperature.
Check the piping system regularly for leaks or other abnormalities.
Fiberglass piping systems, while durable and cost-effective, can still suffer damage. Fortunately, minor damage can be addressed with patching kits and compound putty, while larger areas of damage may require a replacement of sections of the system.
Maintaining your fiberglass piping system properly can significantly reduce the need for repairs and ensure longevity.
Schedule a fiberglass piping system walkthrough or repair by calling 1-410-737-4700 or request a free site visit and quote at https://www.plastechservices.com/quote
Comments