Riser projects

What is a Riser?

Turn on the faucet, and and the water runs. But how does the water get to your tap? In condominium buildings the water is delivered to each unit via pipes called risers. In most buildings built prior to 1970 the risers are made of galvanized steel. Most galvanized pipes have an average lifespan of 40-50 years but could last anywhere from 25 years to 60 years depending on a variety of factors. Over the years, the pipes corrode from the inside out leading to decreased water pressure and eventually leaks. More often than not, the branch lines (lines from the main risers to fixtures like sinks and toilets) are galvanized as well and are susceptible to the same issues. Depending on the heating system in your building, there may be galvanized steel heat risers as well. Newer construction, post 1970, tended to use copper pipes instead of galvanized. Copper has an average lifespan of 70 years. It is most commonly used to replace the older failing galvanized steel.

Envision can help...

Is your association planning a riser project? Our team can assist in any phase, from planning to execution, start to finish.

Why bother?

Low water pressure and lower quality water are two more cosmetic or convenience reasons, stopped up lines and leaks ranging from pin holes to floods are more pressing and serious reasons. That being said, one is a precursor to the other. Low pressure, discolored water, and clogged lines are signs that the inside of the pipes are corroded, sometimes severely. Depending on the age of your building, it is only a mater of time before pipes begin to fail. As anyone who has lived in a condominium can tell you, one issue can snowball quickly. Preventative replacement work on the water system can save enormous costs in repairs, insurance, and even potential lawsuits.

What is involved?

A riser project is no small undertaking. There are multiple contractors involved. Specific schedules must be created. Units and common areas will need to be protected. Containment barriers set up. Walls will have to be opened enough for large sections of pipe to be removed and replaced, and water will be repeatedly turned on and off among other inconveniences. Buildings built prior to 1975 also often contain asbestos insulation on the riser pipes. This requires a specially trained and licensed abatement company to be a part of the project as well. While riser projects are costly and can potentially last years depending on the size of the building, the benefits to resident's health, safety, and convenience greatly outweigh the downsides. Planning ahead and being preemptive with the project can save large sums of money and a lot of time and inconvenience in the long run.

What does Envision do?