PLUMBING & HEATING
INNOVATION IN PIPEWORK? IT’S ALL ABOUT THE INSTALLATION
The future of pipework installation is all about making the right connections, as Will McGill finds out.
W
hen people talk about innovation in the construction and building services sector, pipework doesn’t often get
a mention. That’s to be expected. Pipes are reliable, essential, but not exactly the stuff of R&D headlines.
But while the materials themselves haven’t changed dramatically in decades, there’s a quiet revolution happening elsewhere - one that’s having a much bigger impact on-site than many realise.
“Copper, plastic, stainless steel continue to be proven materials and the fundamentals of piping haven’t shifted much,” says Pipe Centre’s commercial director, Jess Keeble. “What has changed is the environment we’re working in. Shorter project timelines, rising labour costs, and a widening skills gap are all putting pressure on how quickly and efficiently we can get the job done. “This is where installation methods come into their own. The real progress in our industry is being driven by connection technologies - push-fit, press-fit, modular systems, prefabrication - anything that cuts down time on site without compromising on performance.”
Time-saving systems We’re seeing more and more demand for pipe systems that don’t require hot works, heavy tooling or high levels of specialist training.
“If a push-fit or mechanical jointing system can cut installation time by 20–30%, that’s a huge win for everyone involved,” she comments. “It means fewer hours on site, less disruption, and a faster path to commissioning. For contractors trying to do more with less, that efficiency is vital. “And it’s not just about speed. Many of these systems are safer to work with, produce less waste, and allow for cleaner, more precise installation in tight or awkward spaces. They also support better project planning, especially when paired with off-site fabrication or modular assemblies.” It’s important to remember that manufacturers will naturally focus on their
own products. That’s their role. But when you’re choosing a system for a live project, what you really need is impartial advice and insight into how different technologies perform in the real world, across a range of settings. Keeble explains “That’s where Pipe Centre adds real value. Because we operate across the whole market, we’re not here to push a particular system or brand. Our role is to help our customers navigate the options based on what’s actually going to work best for their job.
“It might be a high-rise residential scheme where speed and access are the key concerns. Or a retrofit job in a live hospital environment where safety and minimal disruption are paramount. Whatever the project, we’re able to step back and assess which solutions fit - not just from a technical standpoint, but from a practical, commercial one as well.”
What’s next?
Looking ahead, it’s clear the drive for more efficient installation methods isn’t going anywhere. If anything, it’s accelerating. “We expect to see continued growth in prefabrication and modular builds,” Keeble says, adding that this is particularly the case in sectors where consistency, speed, and minimal site disruption are essential, like healthcare and education.
“Digital planning tools are also starting to play a bigger role. Being able to visualise and coordinate pipework routes in 3D before a single component is delivered to site is helping reduce clashes and rework. That kind of integration between design and install is only going to intensify.
June 2025
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net
“While the pipe itself may not change much, how we install it absolutely will. And in today’s construction landscape, that’s where the smart thinking is happening.” While the advancements in installation methods are significant, the bigger picture is about how these changes affect the industry as a whole. Efficiency, safety, and sustainability are no longer just buzzwords but essential to the future of building services. As the industry continues to evolve, Keeble explains that contractors and specifiers will need to be strategic in choosing the right systems and tools to meet the challenges ahead. It’s not just about keeping up. It’s about staying ahead of the curve. BMJ
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