This is a question people have asked because they’ve discovered that their properties have still got old lead supply pipes and, as we know, lead is poisonous.
Lead is bad for drinking water, so you wouldn’t expect to use it nowadays for pipework, but, in the end, it comes down to making a choice.
You can choose to replace your lead pipework, but it is your responsibility.
Why Have Replacement Water Pipes?
No houses that have been built, or modernised, since 1970 should have lead pipework, but replacing them is not a legal requirement.
However, if you’re modernising your home, or if you just want a safe, reliable water supply, then replacement water pipes are a must-have.
Old pipework may just be storing up problems for later. Not only is there the risk of contaminated drinking water, but older pipes are more prone to deterioration and damage.
They may already be affecting the efficiency of your water flow, meaning that you have persistently inadequate water pressure.
Also, think of it this way: should you decide to refurbish or re-fit your bathroom or kitchen, many modern appliances, including state-of-the-art combi boilers, depend on a certain level of water pressure to function effectively.
It can be that older pipework has an insufficient diameter to be able to meet this kind of demand.
It’s about covering all the bases then. If you choose to modernise or upgrade your home, looking after the external things will only get you so far, if your lead water pipes are letting you down.
Invest in Change
Think of replacement water pipes as an investment in the future, and one that will make your life more comfortable right now.
You may already be experiencing symptoms suggesting your pipes need replacing. These include: noisy pipes, cloudy water, low pressure a lot of the time, or, if you’ve got leaking pipes, damp patches in your home.
You can do your own checking for lead pipework. Look at the supply pipe running either beneath or behind your kitchen sink. If it appears soft in texture, or dull in colour, or if when you scratch its surface gently you see a silvery layer, then it’s made of lead.
If this is the case, then don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll replace your old, lead pipework with state-of-the-art plastic pipes, and with the minimum of fuss using our trenchless technology.