Lead Pipe Replacement

Why Lead is Toxic

Many older homes and apartment complexes may still have lead pipes in the walls. Homes built before 1950 usually had lead pipes to distribute water. Over time, scientists realized that this type of piping had a significant increase in the number of cases of cancer and other illnesses.

In addition to lead piping, many homes later into the 20th century were built using lead to fuse pipes together. Today, homeowners are taking steps to remove lead piping in homes and replace it with copper piping. This is a safer option that does not run the risk of causing illness.

It should be easy to identify if you have lead pipes in your home. If they’re not painted, then they should be a soft or dull grey colour. You can also test by running a coin or knife along the edge of the pipe. If you see a shiny metal survey emerge, then it is most likely lead pipes. You may also notice that the diameter of the pipe is not uniform, unlike plastic or copper piping.

Check your kitchen sink or other area where water enters the home. These areas will have exposed pipes that can easily be tested at home.

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Benefits of Copper Pipes

Have you wondered what the best solution is to replace lead water pipes? Copper is now the most trusted in the industry. Unlike lead water pipes, copper is corrosion-resistant, making it the superior choice over galvanized steel, which can leak and break.

Copper is also a lightweight material, making it easier to install while still being able to withstand 1,000 psi. This means copper pipe can be installed without the need for additional support, which can add to the cost of installation.

Copper piping also offers the added benefit of being more environmentally friendly than options like plastic pipes. Unlike plastic pipes, which create a large level of emissions during the manufacturing process, copper piping is created in a more natural and green process.

Homeowners will also appreciate that copper piping is less expensive compared to other pipe options, so you can see a faster return on your investment.

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Lead is Dangerous to Children

Another reason to consider replacing lead pipes in homes is the high level of toxicity to children. Lead pipes can leach into the water as they get older and corrode. This puts children at high risk for lead poisoning, which can lead to severe illness and even death.

Even minor exposure can have irreversible and long-term effects on a child’s health.

Some of the most common side effects from lead poisoning in children include:

damage to the brain and nervous system
slowed growth and development
learning and behaviour problems
hearing and speech problems

This is why it’s critical to have your pipes inspected to ensure your children are not being exposed to toxins or other dangerous chemicals as a result of having lead pipes.

Why Choose Summit Drain & Plumbing for Lead Pipe Replacement

Summit Drain and Plumbing is committed to providing your family with the safest drinking and cleaning water. If you suspect you have lead pipes or are ready to replace your lead piping, then contact our team of experts.

We will be able to provide you with the right information and solutions to ensure you have safe piping in your home.

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Sewer pipe repair by Summit Drain and Plumbing Ottawa

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FAQ

A main sewer line blockage can cause water to backup in random places. For instance, you run your washing machine and notice your sink overflowing – this can be a clear sign that you have a clogged drain line.

If you have ruled out a potential sewer drain clog, you can rinse your sewer drain by flushing it with water. When you flush your lines, try adding a bit of drain cleaner to the water. A great place to flush your sewer line is the toilet – a larger amount of water and drain cleaner can enter your system quickly and easily. Unfortunately, if you do this when you have a clog, it can cause backup and potential flooding – if this is the case, clear the clog first.

You should generally know if your sewer line is blocked with slow drainage. The purpose of the sewer line is to take all the water drainage away from your house via sinks, bathtubs or toilets – if you find that there is slower drainage in one drain then you can essentially clear that yourself using a drain snake or a plunger.

There is confusion regarding when you are responsible for sewer line repair. While some may believe that the homeowner is only responsible for repairing the part of the line that’s on their property, this is not the case. Sewer lines consist of multiple sections, the upper lateral, lower lateral and the main line. The city is only responsible for repairing the main sewer line.

If issues with the main sewer line cause damage to your lower lateral, which is most likely where the damage would generally first start – the city would repair this damage when they work on the main sewer line. Unfortunately, if there is backup and flooding on your property from the main sewer line, then the city would not be responsible. It is best to follow up with the city to see if they will repair any damage in these cases.

Unpleasant smells coming from your drains is indicative of sewer line issues and damage. You should always take these types of smells seriously as it could be toxic fumes slowly releasing from the sewer below into your home.

There are a number of ways to clear a slow drain using products found around the home:

Bent Wire – If you do not have a drain snake, you can try using a stiff wire – like one from a clothes hanger, leaving the hook to enter pipes and pull out any clogs. Try to make sure you don’t push debris further into the pipe.

Homemade Flush – Mixing baking soda and vinegar can dissolve any materials that are potentially clogging your drain pipes. This is a good and much safer alternative to store-bought chemical cleaners.

Toilet Plunger – Like plunging a toilet, you can try using this on your drains. Using a plunger on your drains can help get things moving by using suction. This should be enough to fix any mild blockages.

Aged drain pipes are at risk for corrosion which can lead to breaks. Summit Drain has both the technology and expertise to fix this if necessary.

Yes. Drain pipes are durable, but not meant to last forever. If you live in an older home in Ottawa, most likely the pipes are made from copper and can collapse in this day and age.

When it comes to a collapsed drain, call Summit Drain. We use trenchless technology to replace sewer pipes made from original materials without ruining your property.

Rock salt
Rock salt helps by removing moisture from the roots, which in turn kills them. Two lbs should do the trick, pour 1 down the toilet. Flush until gone. And repeat with the next. Then leave for 12 hours and don’t run any water.

Foaming root killers
Another effective way to treat roots in pipes is with foaming root killers. Pour powder into toilet and flush. It will foam upon contact with water. Not only does it help dissolve current roots, but also helps to protect against future ones.

Copper sulfate
Copper sulfate is another good option. Available at most hardware stores, pour roughly half a cup into toilet and flush until gone. Leave the home and take all pets and family members along. This is a toxic substance and banned in some places.

Should I replace old pipes?
There does come a time where it makes sense to replace your pipes. Over time they crack and corrode. It is recommended to begin routine inspections once your home reaches 50 years in age. For plumbing Services in and around the Ottawa area, nobody does it like Summit Drain.