Pitch Fibre Pipe Replacement

We were called to a blocked drain that had been flooding at a private residence. Our team sent down a CCTV camera to survey the pipework and they found that the camera head could not fit – an indication that the pipework had collapsed.  After further investigation the team found that old pitch fibre pipes had squashed under the pressure of the earth and were too damaged to be re-rounded and lined. The team excavated and replaced the pitch fibre pipes with new upvc pipework

Pitch Fibre pipes were popular 1970’S as a cheaper, lightweight and easier to handle material. Pitch fibre is made of wood cellulose impregnated with inert coal tar pitch. Manufactured in lengths of 8ft with push fit joints it was a quick and easy to install. It was hailed as a modern flexible drainage solution. However pitch fibre pipes have a short life span and deteriorate quickly.

Pitch fibre pipes can collapse and becomes misshapen under pressure. The internal wall blisters and de-laminates when it come into prolonged contact with water – a major design flaw when the product is required to carry water. This type of pipework is also prone to root ingress between the push fit collars.

If you need to replace your pitch fibre pipes get in touch on: 01420 561661