Labor and equipment costs are rising—installing smarter starts with the choices you make up front.
From material selection to product design, see how the right choices can reduce install time, simplify handling, and avoid costly callbacks.
Installation costs can quickly escalate in gas and water infrastructure projects. Labor, equipment, and site handling often make up a significant portion of the overall budget. While pipes, valves, and meters are essential, the utility access products that surround them—like meter boxes, valve boxes, frames, and lids—also present key opportunities for efficiency and cost control.
At Bingham & Taylor, we’ve supported utility, engineering, and contractor teams for over 175 years. We know the right choices in materials and product design can reduce installation time, streamline handling, and minimize long-term costs—without compromising durability or performance.
Whether you’re working directly with us or through one of our trusted distributor partners, here are five ways to improve installation outcomes and reduce project costs.
Different applications call for different material strengths and handling requirements. Selecting a utility access product that meets—but doesn’t exceed—those needs can lower installation costs and improve efficiency.
Cast iron offers long-lasting durability, particularly in high-traffic or corrosive environments.
Engineered plastics and composites can reduce product weight and ease manual handling.
Combination designs, such as cast iron tops with plastic bases, provide a balance of strength and ease of installation.
Distributors and manufacturers can help guide these choices to align with project goals, crew size, and site access.
Well-designed utility access products reduce time spent on assembly, adjustment, or modification in the field. Features that help include:
Pre-assembled or low-part-count systems
Interlocking or telescoping components
Integrated stabilizers or alignment aids
These features improve consistency, reduce labor needs, and minimize the risk of installation errors.
Product weight directly impacts installation time and safety. Lighter access solutions, when appropriate, can:
Reduce reliance on lifting equipment
Allow smaller crews to work efficiently
Lower the risk of injury or fatigue
The key is finding the right balance—selecting a product that meets load requirements while supporting faster, safer installation.
Quick installation only helps if the product holds up. Poorly fitting components can lead to pop-outs, shifting, or safety issues—adding unplanned costs and future disruptions.
Choosing well-matched, high-quality utility access products helps ensure a proper fit from the start. Accessories like:
Stabilizers can prevent movement in soft or unstable soil
Paving risers allow for adjustments to match grade and surface conditions
Retainers or locking lids help maintain integrity and security
Together, these elements improve both installation ease and long-term performance—reducing callbacks, replacements, and maintenance delays.
In both the gas and water industries, distributors play a vital role in helping utilities, engineers, and contractors select the right solutions for each project. They understand local requirements, know which products move efficiently through the supply chain, and offer practical guidance based on decades of experience.
At Bingham & Taylor, we’re proud to work with a nationwide network of knowledgeable, responsive distributor partners. Together, we help ensure that the right product is in the right place—at the right time.
Installation costs can’t be eliminated—but with thoughtful planning, smart material selection, and the right access solutions, they can be significantly reduced. Whether you're working on a rural gas line or an urban water infrastructure upgrade, we’re here to support you with reliable, American-made products built for performance and efficiency.
Understanding your options is the first step toward smarter, more efficient installations. If you're evaluating materials for an upcoming gas or water infrastructure project, we invite you to download our free guide:
📘 Choosing the Right Material for Underground Utility Access
In this resource, you'll find:
A breakdown of material types, including cast iron, plastic, composite, and combination designs
Key performance and cost considerations
Tips on selecting the best fit for your specific application and site conditions
Whether you're a utility, engineer, contractor, or distributor, this guide will help you make informed decisions that support both budget and performance goals.