Leak (patching)

When winter arrives the water in a pipe can turn to ice, which expands and will cause a split in the walls of the pipe or even force a joint apart. Copper pipework is more likely to split than lead, which can stretch to accommodate the expansion and thus survive a few hard winters before reaching breaking point. Chessington Plumbers can sort this problem. If the pipework is still lead, then replace it with copper pipe as soon as you have the leak under control The only other reason for leaking plumbing is the failure of a component either through degradation of the materials or because a pipe joint has failed. If possible, make a permanent repair, by inserting a new section of pipe or replacing the leaking joint. For the time being, however, you may have to make an emergency repair. Drain the pipe unless it is frozen, in which case make the repair before it thaws. Binding a leaking pipe for a temporary repair you should cut a piece of rubberised hose and slit it along its length, so you can place it over the pipe that is split. Tie the hose with some hose type clips, or, using some pliers, twist some wire around the hose. Alternatively, use self amalgamating tape that is made to seal burst pipes. Epoxy putty can be used and sticks to most materials and will produce a good long-term repair, although it is better to insert a new length of pipe. The putty is supplied in two tubes which are mixed will start to solidify, giving about 25 minutes to complete. Now clean a 25 to 50 millimetres of pipe on each side of the split, using a scotch pad. Mix the putty and press it into the hole or around a joint, building it to a thickness of 3 to 6mm. It will cure to full strength within 24 hours, but you can run low-pressure water immediately if you bind the putty with self-adhesive tape. A Chessington Plumber carries all the necessary tools for plumbing work.