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Pitch fibre pipes were once considered a practical solution for drainage systems in commercial buildings across the United Kingdom. Installed widely from the 1950s through to the 1970s, they offered a lightweight and cost effective alternative to traditional clay or cast iron pipework. However, time has not been kind to this material. For many commercial properties in the South of England, pitch fibre drainage now represents a hidden but serious operational risk.
Understanding these risks is essential for property owners, landlords, and facilities managers who are responsible for maintaining safe, compliant, and fully functioning buildings. Below, we explore 8 key risks that pitch fibre pipes pose to commercial property operations, and why early intervention is so important.
Contact us TodayPitch fibre pipes are manufactured from wood cellulose impregnated with coal tar resin. While this made them flexible when new, it also left them vulnerable to gradual deformation over time. Exposure to moisture causes the material to soften, leading pipes to lose their circular shape.
In a commercial setting, this deformation restricts flow capacity and increases the likelihood of blockages. Reduced drainage efficiency can disrupt day to day operations in offices, retail units, and hospitality venues, particularly during periods of heavy usage or rainfall.
Learn MoreAs pitch fibre pipes age, the resin binding the fibres together continues to deteriorate. Eventually, this can lead to partial or total collapse of the pipe. Collapsed drainage can cause sudden and severe disruption, including flooding, foul water backflow, and emergency closures.
For commercial properties, the financial consequences can be significant. Lost trading time, emergency repairs, and reputational damage often far exceed the cost of preventative maintenance.
Get in Touch TodayOne of the most challenging aspects of pitch fibre drainage is that deterioration often occurs internally and out of sight. External signs may be minimal until a serious failure occurs.
Without professional CCTV drain surveys, property managers may remain unaware of the true condition of their drainage system. This lack of visibility increases the risk of unexpected failures that interrupt business operations and require urgent intervention.
Book in TodayAs pitch fibre pipes deform, blister, or delaminate, their internal surfaces become uneven. This creates ideal conditions for waste, grease, paper, and debris to accumulate.
In commercial environments such as restaurants, shopping centres, and office complexes, repeated blockages can become a persistent problem. Frequent call outs for commercial drainage repairs not only increase maintenance costs but also place unnecessary strain on staff and tenants.
Call our TeamThe good news is that pitch fibre pipe problems do not always require full excavation or replacement. Modern solutions allow many systems to be rehabilitated efficiently and with minimal disruption.
CCTV drain surveys provide a clear and accurate assessment of pipe condition, identifying deformation, blistering, and areas of weakness. Once diagnosed, drain relining or pipe lining can restore structural integrity and extend the lifespan of the drainage system for many years.
For commercial properties across the South of England, planned preventative maintenance delivered by experienced drainage specialists is often the most cost effective approach.
Request a QuotePitch fibre pipes were originally expected to last around forty years. Many have now exceeded this lifespan and are at increased risk of failure.
Yes, they are still legal, but they are no longer installed due to their known limitations and long term performance issues.
In many cases, yes. Drain relining and pipe lining allow pipes to be rehabilitated internally without disruptive digging.
Contact our TeamFor commercial property owners and managers, pitch fibre drainage represents a manageable risk when addressed early. Ignoring the issue, however, often leads to costly and disruptive consequences.
Pitch Fibre Specialists provide expert diagnosis, preventative maintenance, and long term solutions tailored to commercial properties throughout the South of England. By arranging a CCTV drain survey and seeking professional advice, property owners can protect their operations, meet compliance obligations, and avoid unnecessary disruption.
Taking action today is far simpler and more economical than dealing with an unexpected failure tomorrow.
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