PITCH FIBRE DRAIN SERVICES IN SOUTHAMPTON

Southampton Pitch Fibre Drain Services

Many people in Southampton are surprised to find that the pipes in their drains are made out of “pitch fibre”. We have expert knowledge of this type of drain, and can provide impartial advice, as well as surveying the drain if necessary. Our professional advice and experience can help you decide whether to repair or replace your drains. Whatever your decision, we can carry out both services expertly and cost-effectively for all residents in the Southampton area.

What Is A Pitch Fibre Drain?

Drains and pipes were originally made out of clay. But from around 1950 to 1970, pitch fibre was used frequently in Southampton and other areas, as a replacement. Pitch fibre was much cheaper than the clay pipework, and also lighter to work with. The fibre was from wood, and the pitch was coal tar. However, the pipes weren’t as strong as clay pipes, so to make them stronger, asbestos was frequently added.

Are These Drains Safe?

As with most asbestos, you needn’t worry as long as the pipes are in good condition because the asbestos is locked into the material. Unfortunately, pitch fibre pipes in Southampton and elsewhere, are now nearing the end of their life and have a tendency to break. This could potentially release the asbestos. If you have this problem, we can help by surveying your drains using a CCTV drain camera if necessary, and then advising you – we have enormous expertise in this area and can give you impartial advice.

Repairing Pitch Fibre Drains

One of the problems we find with these drains, is that the pitch fibre isn’t strong enough to withstand the pressure on the drain, and the pipe eventually loses its round shape and flattens out. In addition, the fibre is increasingly showing signs of wear, and breaking down. Both of these things can cause blockages in the pipe.

In some cases, we can repair pitch fibre drains without expensive trench digging, as we have specialised “no dig” equipment. In the case of flattened drains, we can send a rounded tool into the drain, to open it up and restore it to its proper shape. However, this will only work if your drain is slightly flattened – if it’s severely squashed, you’ll have to opt for replacement or repair.

Quite often problems with blocked drains in Southampton can actually lead to break. If this happens we can reline the pipe internally with a polyester felt material. Alternatively, we can patch the pipe with lining, to cover the part that is damaged. Some pipes with major problems may be suitable for treatment with elastic tubing. This is used when there is heavy pressure on the pipe, and several joints along its length.

Replacing Pitch Fibre Pipes

Many property owners in Southampton are deciding that the best course of action, is to replace the pipes, and we can do this promptly and efficiently. We’ll map out the drains, using CCTV if required, so that we have an accurate guide to work to, and this will also minimise the amount of digging we need to do.

Asbestos In Pitch Fibre

We are qualified to work with material containing asbestos, and as licensed waste carriers, we can dispose of the old pitch fibre at a designated site. We strictly observe health and safety regulations when working, so that no one is put at risk.

Contact Us

When it comes to pitch fibre drainage repairs in Southampton, you need to contact No 1 PHD. We can give you the best in professional advice, and costings for various options to solve your drainage problems. Call us today on 01425 208031, or email us at, info@no1phd.co.uk for more information, or to arrange a visit.