How Pitch Fibre Rerounding Can Save You Money in the Long Run

Understanding Pitch Fibre Pipes

When it comes to maintaining the efficiency and longevity of your drainage system, addressing issues proactively is not just prudent—it’s economical. One common but often overlooked problem in many UK properties, particularly those built between the 1950s and 1970s, is pitch fibre pipe deterioration. Fortunately, solutions like pitch fibre rerounding offer a cost-effective method of remediation, ensuring your drainage system remains robust and reliable. In this blog, we’ll delve into the process of pitch fibre rerounding and how it can save you money in the long run.

Pitch Fibre Rerounding

Pitch Fibre Pipes

Pitch fibre pipes were once a popular choice in the UK due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of installation. Made from wood cellulose and impregnated with coal tar pitch, these pipes were widely used for sewer systems and other drainage purposes. However, over time, it became apparent that pitch fibre pipes are prone to deformation and other forms of damage due to their relatively soft material compared to more modern solutions like PVC or clay.

The appeal of pitch fibre during its time of use was largely due to economic factors; the materials were cheaper and more accessible than alternatives. However, the long-term trade-off includes increased susceptibility to chemical reactions with sewage and groundwater, leading to the breakdown of the internal structure of the pipes. This deterioration can manifest as softening, blistering, and eventual collapse of the pipe, necessitating either extensive repair or complete replacement to prevent serious water management issues.

What is Pitch Fibre Rerounding?

Pitch fibre rerounding is a specialised repair process that restores deformed pitch fibre pipes back to their original circular shape. This technique involves inserting a rerounding tool into the pipe, which then expands to exert outward pressure on the pipe walls, correcting deformities and reestablishing the proper flow dynamics.

The rerounding tool, often a mechanical device fitted with control mechanisms, is carefully navigated through the pipe. As it travels, it expands at predetermined locations to apply an even and controlled pressure, reshaping the pipe walls back to their original configuration. This process is closely monitored using CCTV equipment to ensure the pipe is correctly reshaped without causing additional damage. This method is highly effective in mitigating the issues associated with pitch fibre pipes without needing excavation or replacement in many cases.

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Cost-Effectiveness

One of the primary advantages of rerounding pitch fibre pipes is its cost-effectiveness compared to pipe replacement. Excavating and replacing damaged pipes is not only expensive but also disruptive. Rerounding can often be completed without extensive excavation, reducing both the direct costs and the ancillary costs associated with landscape restoration.

The direct cost benefits of rerounding over replacement include savings on materials, labour, and time. Excavation, particularly in urban areas or under buildings, can be disruptive and costly, involving heavy machinery and significant labor. Rerounding, by contrast, is less invasive and can often be completed more quickly, minimising downtime and disruption to property use. Moreover, by extending the life of existing infrastructure, rerounding defers the substantial capital expenditure of complete system replacement.

Extended Pipe Life

Rerounding extends the lifespan of existing pitch fibre pipes, delaying the need for costly replacements. By restoring the pipe’s shape and functionality, the rerounding process can add many years to its serviceable life, making it a wise investment.

This extension of pipe life is critical not just from a cost perspective but also from a resource management point of view. Each year that replacement is deferred is another year that the resources (both financial and material) can be allocated elsewhere. Furthermore, maintaining the existing pipes in functional condition through rerounding helps ensure that the environmental costs of manufacturing new pipes and disposing of old ones are avoided.

Prevention of Further Damage

Regular maintenance, including rerounding, helps prevent the escalation of minor issues into major problems. Addressing deformities early through rerounding keeps the drainage system efficient and minimises the risk of severe blockages and overflows, which can be far more damaging and expensive to address.

The preventative aspect of rerounding cannot be overstated. By correcting the shape of the pipes before minor deformities become major collapses, the overall integrity of the drainage system is maintained. This proactive approach helps avoid the sudden emergencies that can result from neglected pipe issues, which not only cost more to repair but also can lead to significant damage to the property itself.

Environmental Impact

By opting for rerounding rather than replacement, you are also making an environmentally friendly choice. The process reduces the amount of waste material sent to landfill and limits the need for new materials, contributing to a lower carbon footprint.

Choosing rerounding is a sustainable practice that aligns with modern environmental standards. Reducing waste and minimising the use of raw materials are key components of sustainable management practices. By preserving existing pipes through rerounding, we reduce environmental impact and support a more sustainable future.

Pitch Fibre Rerounding as Part of a Comprehensive Maintenance Plan

To fully benefit from pitch fibre rerounding, it should be integrated into a comprehensive maintenance plan. Pitch Fibre Specialist, a leading UK company in the field, recommends regular CCTV drain surveys to monitor the condition of pitch fibre pipes. These surveys can detect early signs of damage, allowing for timely intervention with rerounding or other appropriate techniques like drain relining or reforming.

A comprehensive maintenance plan that includes regular inspections and appropriate interventions like rerounding can significantly reduce the long-term costs associated with drainage system management. By detecting and addressing issues early, the need for more drastic measures can be avoided, ensuring the system remains efficient and less likely to require expensive emergency repairs.

Conclusion

Investing in pitch fibre rerounding can significantly reduce the long-term costs associated with maintaining your drainage system. By choosing a proactive approach to pipe maintenance, you not only save money but also enhance the overall health and functionality of your property’s drainage infrastructure. Contact Pitch Fibre Specialist today to find out how we can help you extend the life of your drainage system and avoid the financial burdens associated with more extensive repairs.

Embracing proactive and preventive measures like pitch fibre rerounding is not merely a maintenance strategy—it’s a wise financial decision that keeps future costs down and ensures your drainage system performs optimally for years to come.