In the late 1950s, pipe laying changed across the country with the introduction of pitch fibre. It was easy to install and more cost-effective than materials used in the past, making it a popular piping choice even through the 1970s. Throughout the UK, thousands of kilometers of pitch fibre pipe was laid.
Unfortunately, it was later discovered that the material wasn’t necessarily as ‘revolutionary’ as people first thought. Over time, the pipework can ‘flatten,’ and become deformed. It can also start to disintegrate. These deformations can eventually cause the pipes to become completely flat and make it impossible for water to flow freely through them.
In some cases, excavation is the best solution. It’s an extensive process and can become expensive quickly, so most homeowners and businesses like to avoid it if possible, but it can often be the only option in situations where the damage is too much to repair.
The good news? If the deformation of the pipes is less than 20% and they have not bellied out, it’s possible that they can be repaired with reforming and lining.
How Does Reforming and Lining Work?
The goal of pitch fibre reforming is to return the pipe to its normal, circular shape. Think of it as ‘rehabilitating’ the pipe so it works the way it’s supposed to. This is also sometimes known as “re-rounding”. Reforming is done by using winches and reformers. The tension forces the pitch fibre back into its original shape.
Once the pipe has been reformed, it’s lined with a structurally-sound soft felt material. This helps to prevent it from becoming deformed or deteriorating again.
In many cases, this entire operation can be done within a day and can help to prevent a major project for your business or home.
Can Freeflow Help With Pitch Fibre Reforming and Lining?
With our years of expertise, we can take care of any of your pitch fibre reforming and lining needs. Recently, we were able to work on a project for a local hospital with pitch fibre piping. The pipes were beginning to collapse. Much longer, and it could have been a huge problem that may have shut the healthcare facility down for a week or more.
Thankfully, the pipe was not totally collapsed and we were able to reform it and re-line it quickly. The process took just a day, and there was no disruption to the hospital, so they were able to keep working normally and helping those in need.
Pitch fibre piping has an expiration date. Unfortunately, no one knows when that is for each individual installation. One of the best things you can do if you have pitch fibre piping is to get it inspected. The sooner you do, the sooner we can determine if there is any collapsing or damage. If there is, getting it reformed and lined right away can save you time, money, and a lot of stress later on!
Contact Freeflow for any other questions you might have, or if you’re unsure whether you have pitch fibre pipes. We can make the determination for you and help you to decide the best way to keep your pipes strong and working properly.
