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When it comes to the hidden parts of your property, few things are as important as your drainage system. Many UK homes built between the 1950s and 1970s were fitted with pitch fibre pipes, an affordable and lightweight alternative to traditional clay or cast iron drains. But decades later, these pipes are notorious for their structural weaknesses — and one pressing question continues to surface: do pitch fibre pipes contain asbestos?
In this article, we’ll explain what pitch fibre pipes are, whether they contain asbestos, the risks involved, and what you should do if your home in Guildford, Hampshire, or elsewhere is affected.
Learn MorePitch fibre drainage pipes were introduced after World War II when Britain faced a housing boom and needed cost-effective solutions for building materials. These pipes were manufactured using a combination of wood cellulose (fibre), coal tar pitch, and in some cases, reinforcing additives.
They were lightweight, easy to install, and much cheaper than clay or metal pipes, which made them a popular choice for housing developments and council estates.
However, over time, homeowners discovered that these pipes:
Collapse under pressure.
Deform when exposed to hot water or chemicals.
Are prone to blistering and delamination.
As a result, thousands of households across the UK are now facing the reality of pitch fibre repair or full replacement.
Get in TouchHomeowners in Guildford, Hampshire, and across the South often ask how they can tell if their property has pitch fibre drains. Common signs include:
Frequent blockages.
Slow-draining sinks, showers, or toilets.
Collapsed or deformed pipes found during a CCTV drain survey.
A property built between the 1950s–1970s.
If you’re experiencing any of these, it’s worth booking a professional drain survey.
Contact usWhen it comes to pitch fibre drainage pipes, you generally have two options:
Modern repair techniques such as pipe lining or pipe bursting can reinforce weakened drains without full excavation. These repairs are often quicker, less disruptive, and cost-effective.
Pros: Less invasive, cheaper upfront, extends pipe life.
Cons: May only be temporary if the pipes are badly deteriorated or contain asbestos.
In cases where pipes are severely collapsed, asbestos-containing, or beyond repair, full replacement is the safest solution. Although it costs more initially, it ensures a long-term fix and adds value to your property.
Get in Touch TodayOne of the most common concerns is drain pipe repair cost. While prices vary depending on the extent of damage and location, here’s a rough guide:
Pitch fibre drain repair: From £80–£120 per metre for lining.
Cracked drain pipe repair cost (UK): Around £150–£400 depending on severity.
Cracked sewer pipe repair cost UK: Can range from £1,000–£4,000 for major excavation and replacement.
Full replacement of pitch fibre pipes: Typically £5,000+, depending on property size.
While these figures are estimates, a CCTV drain survey is the most accurate way to determine the scope and cost of work.
Book in TodayAt Pitch Fibre Specialists, we provide expert drainage services in Guildford, Hampshire, and across the South. Our team is highly experienced in diagnosing and repairing issues with pitch fibre pipes, ensuring homeowners get safe, long-lasting solutions.
Some of our most in-demand services include:
Drain repairs Guildford – addressing collapsed and cracked drains in Surrey homes.
Drain repair Guildford – both trenchless and excavation methods available.
Drain cleaning Guildford – unblocking and maintaining drains to prevent costly damage.
Pitch fibre drain repair Hampshire – cost-effective repairs and replacements for homeowners across the region.
Pitch restoration services – bringing old or damaged systems back to working order.
It’s not possible to tell by looking. A professional CCTV survey and inspection by a drainage specialist is the only safe way to determine if your pitch fibre pipes contain asbestos.
Minor repairs may cost a few hundred pounds, but full replacement can run into several thousand. Prices vary based on pipe condition, length, and whether asbestos is present.
If pipes are only slightly deformed, repairs such as lining may be suitable. However, badly collapsed or asbestos-containing pipes should be fully replaced to ensure safety and long-term performance.
Get in TouchSo, do pitch fibre pipes contain asbestos? In some cases, yes — particularly those manufactured during the 1960s and 1970s. While intact asbestos-containing drains may not pose immediate danger, once they begin to collapse or require work, they can become a significant health and safety risk.
If you live in Guildford, Hampshire, or surrounding areas and suspect you have pitch fibre drainage pipes, don’t leave it to chance. A professional inspection is the safest way to assess the problem and avoid unexpected costs.
At Pitch Fibre Specialists, we provide expert pitch fibre drain repair, replacement, and drainage services across the South. Whether you’re concerned about asbestos, collapsed drains, or just want peace of mind, our team is here to help.
Get in Touch