Lead (Main Water) Pipe Replacement

For centuries, lead plumbing served as the primary choice for water pipes due to its affordability, ease of welding, and resistance to rust. Despite the UK ban of lead pipes in the 1970s, their installation in properties continued well into the 1980s. If your property was built before the 1970s, there is a high chance that you may still have lead pipes, unless they have been replaced during a renovation process, or due to a broken pipe replacement.

Lead (Main Water) Pipe Replacement

For centuries, lead plumbing served as the primary choice for water pipes due to its affordability, ease of welding, and resistance to rust. Despite the UK ban of lead pipes in the 1970s, their installation in properties continued well into the 1980s. If your property was built before the 1970s, there is a high chance that you may still have lead pipes, unless they have been replaced during a renovation process, or due to a broken pipe replacement.

How to find out if you have lead pipes in the property?

If you have access to the property’s records, you can check if any information regarding the plumbing materials used during construction is available. This might include any documentation indicating the presence of lead pipes. Also, if the property was built before the 1970s, there is a higher likelihood of having lead pipes.

Take a note of any pipes inside your house, especially those leading to kitchen taps or other visible locations. If you notice dull grey-coloured pipes, it could be an indication of lead pipes.

Gently scrape the surface of the pipes with a knife or a coin. If the scraped area reveals a shiny, silver-coloured metal beneath the surface, it is likely a lead pipe.

Tap the suspected pipe with a metal object, such as a small hammer. If the pipe produces a dull thud sound instead of a clear ringing sound, it may be a lead pipe.

Why should you replace a lead pipe if you suspect having such?

Lead pipes pose a serious health risk as they can contaminate your drinking water with lead particles. Long-term exposure to lead can lead to various health complications, and it is especially harmful to young children and pregnant women. By replacing lead pipes with modern, non-toxic alternatives, such as PVC and PEX pipes, you can safeguard the health and well-being of your family and occupants.

Lead pipes can degrade over time, releasing rust, sediment, and other contaminants into your water supply. This can affect the taste, odour, and clarity of your water. By replacing your lead pipe, you can enjoy cleaner, clearer, and better-tasting water, promoting a healthier lifestyle and enhancing your overall water quality.

Lead pipes are often corroded, restricting water flow, and causing frequent clogs. By replacing them with newer pipes, you can improve the water pressure, reduce the likelihood of blockages, and enhance the overall efficiency of your plumbing system. This leads to fewer maintenance issues, lower water bills, and a more reliable water supply.

Do not compromise your health even a minute further and contact us today to discuss your lead pipe replacement requirements. If you are not sure whether you have a lead pipe in the property, we can gladly arrange for one of our professionals to attend and carry out a thorough assessment.