The Hidden Risk: Corroded Underground Steel Gas Lines
Why Steel Gas Lines Corrode | How to Spot a Leak | What to Do if You Suspect a Problem | How We Fix Underground Gas Leaks | Schedule an Inspection
The Hidden Risk: Corroded Underground Steel Gas Lines
Many Pittsburgh homes — especially those built before the 1980s — still rely on unprotected underground steel gas lines. While these pipes were once standard, they’re highly susceptible to corrosion when exposed to soil, moisture, and acidic ground conditions.
At Steel City Natural Gas, we’ve seen firsthand how rusted steel lines can silently deteriorate beneath your yard, leading to dangerous gas leaks, service interruptions, and expensive emergency repairs.
Why Do Underground Steel Gas Lines Fail?
Bare steel pipes corrode over time when:
- They're in direct contact with wet or acidic soil
- There’s no protective coating or cathodic protection system
- They’re damaged during yard work, excavation, or settlement
Unlike interior pipes, underground steel lines aren’t easy to inspect — so damage often goes unnoticed until a leak is detected.
Signs You May Have a Corroding Gas Line
Even though corrosion happens underground, there are warning signs:
- Unusual gas smells (rotten egg odor) near outdoor areas
- Bubbling in puddles or wet soil above the buried line
- Dead grass or plants in a straight line along the gas route
- Low gas pressure or intermittent appliance issues
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call a professional. Do not delay gas leak repairs.
What to Do if You Suspect a Leak
First and foremost — if you smell gas or suspect a leak, leave the area and call your utility's emergency line. Once the leak is confirmed and the gas is shut off, you’ll need a qualified contractor to repair the line.
That’s where Steel City Natural Gas comes in.
How We Repair Corroded Underground Gas Lines
Our technicians are DOT Operator Qualified and trained to:
- Locate the leak using pressure testing and detection tools
- Excavate only where necessary to avoid unnecessary yard damage
- Replace bare steel lines with modern, corrosion-resistant materials like PE (polyethylene) pipe
- Pressure test and obtain inspections as required
We handle the entire process — from diagnosis to inspection sign-off — and help you restore gas service safely and efficiently.
Book an Inspection — Don’t Wait for a Leak
If your home was built before the 1980s or you’re not sure what kind of gas line you have buried in your yard, now is the time to get it checked out.
Contact Steel City Natural Gas today for an inspection or leak repair. We proudly serve homeowners across Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, and Washington County.