Why Non Pop Lids Are Beneficial 12/2014
You may hear the term "non pop lid" and wonder what exactly it is and why it is beneficial. Anyone that has ever walked around in a city or near a street, or driven on a street, or lived in a home near a street has probably hear the clanking sound of a cast iron valve box lid. A valve box lid covers access to water mains and is important because it protects water mains from things like dirt and debris, damage from outside sources or more. But, it is also good to know where it is because should a water main burst it is important to know where it is to shut it off.
But, while they are important, cast iron valve box lids pose a number of problems. Traditional cast iron valve box lids are heavy and very loud. The clanking noise is not simply a minor irritation. In fact, many city government offices can attest to the fact that those loud cast iron valve box lids are actually the source of many noise complaints from frustrated citizen who are sick of hearing the constant loud clanking. Additionally, cast iron valve box lids are prone to damage over time from the constantly wear and tear they face every day. This means that they will eventually need to be replaced which will cost money. Also, there is no way to block unauthorized access of water mains because, while heavy, the lids can simply be lifted up and water mains accessed.
While they serve the basic purpose of a lid there are other, better options such as SW Services Non Pop Lids. Non pop polymer lids are made of high-impact Fiberglass reinforced Nylon and Dead-Bang™ Rubber. This means that they are specifically designed to prevent pop outs and stay in place. Additionally, because of the material of which they are made they are inherently less noisy because they are not a heavy cast iron but rubber. The materials used are very durable and UV resistant which helps non pop lids last longer. They will last far longer than their cast iron counterparts and can handle whatever temperatures and conditions are thrown at them. They can also be color coded for easy location and access for maintenance and emergencies. This will also save precious time in the event of an emergency. They are a cost effective solution that all cities and municipalities should consider because the reduction of noise complains alone will be worth it.