Are Lead Water Pipes Dangerous?
As water runs through lead pipes, particles of lead enter the water supply. A build-up of lead in your body can lead to health complications. Pregnant women and children are most at risk, as even low levels of exposure in children have been linked to damage to the nervous system, learning disabilities, shorter stature, impaired hearing, and impaired formation and function of blood cells.
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Beyond the dangers mentioned above, replacing lead water pipes and changing to modern piping also provides;
- Improved water quality
- Improved flow and pressure
- Reduced chance of pipes breaking
Is it difficult to get lead water pipes replaced?
In most cases we can use moling technology to replace pipes. This method is much quicker than more traditional methods that require digging up large parts of your property. Moling means in a lot of cases we can complete the work in one day.
For a free, no obligation quote, contact us today on the form below and we would be happy to help.
Find out more about moling here
Why isn’t the utility company replacing lead pipes?
Utility companies are not always responsible for the water pipes on your property. They are only responsible for shared services and only for the drainage of dirty water, so the pipes running beyond your properties boundary which is usually to the edge of your garden. For shared services of clean water, you as the home owner are responsible. If you are unsure however, the best thing to do is ask an expert and they will be able to advise what you are responsible for and what your water company should take care of.
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If the property was built before 1970, there is a good chance the property has lead pipes.
Initially if you check the pipes at your stop tap, which is usually located under your kitchen sink, for unpainted pipes;
- Leadpipes are usually grey in colour
- Copper piping is orangey brown in colour
- Iron piping dark in colour and possibly rusty
- Plastic can range from blue, black or grey
If you’re still unsure of what piping supplies your property, contact us on the form below so that we can provide more information and help where possible.
Lead Pipe Replacement Cheshire
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If you own a property that requires lead pipe replacement, Cheshire and Manchester domestic or commercial customers can contact DHC Utilities. We have over 15 years’ experience in the business which means we are more than capable of carrying out a safe, efficient and reliable service.
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Lead pipes were originally considered the best choice for plumbing and underground drains due to the fact it was cheaper to obtain and manufacture, less susceptible to corrosion, and can be easily moulded into a chosen shape. In fact, the word for plumbing comes from the period tables use of Pb (in the Latin meaning ‘Plumbum’). Since that time, the research gathered on the negative effects of this metal being used for a water supply has meant lead pipe replacement has become a must for property owners. Although it is indeed true that lead is more resilient to corrosion, it is not immune. Over time, particles can seep into the water system, making it poisonous to anyone who drinks from a water source provided through a network of lead piping.
Many health problems and risk factors have been linked to the use of this metal in plumbing, including damage to the nervous system that can also be linked to anxiety and mental health problems, kidney failure, digestive problems, and muscle and joint pains, to name a few. It is also capable of harming an unborn child through the intake of its presence in the water source, and then from the mother to the child through the placenta. It is therefore important for the safety of you and your family to seriously consider getting your water pipes checked, and if lead is found to then organise for a reputable company to replace lead pipe work on your property grounds.
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Lead Pipe Replacement
Not only does the use of lead in your water system have health risks, it is also less efficient. Modern water pipes are far more resilient to decay, and the chances of them cracking or breaking are lower.
If you own a property that was built before the 1970’s, after which the use of lead piping in plumbing and drainage construction was banned, you will need the expert services of a lead water pipe replacement company, that can first ascertain what kind of pipes your property has, and then replace it professionally and safely.
As with a lot of modern plumbing and drainage techniques, it is possible for us to replace lead water pipes without the need for excavation using moling. A mole is a machine that allows us to lay new stretches of pipes quickly and at low-cost, without the need for us to break up, or demolish your garden, driveways and any buildings. It works by creating a tunnel by pushing through the ground and compacting the soil around it. Once the tunnel has been created a new water system, carrying fresh clean and safe water to your home, can be installed.
So, if you are looking for a company to replace lead pipes for your mains water supply, contact us, DHC utilities, your local water industry approved contractor. We can arrange a time to come to your property to give you a quote on our lead pipe replacement services.
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