From the 1950s through to the late 1960s, pitch fibre pipes were widely installed in properties across the UK. Seen at the time as a modern and cost-effective alternative to clay, pitch fibre offered long lengths, lightweight handling, and quick installation. Made from wood cellulose and impregnated with coal tar, it was once considered a breakthrough in drainage systems.
Unfortunately, history has shown otherwise.
Over time, pitch fibre pipework deteriorates significantly. The material softens, warps, and can collapse under pressure – leading to constant blockages, standing water, and root intrusion. The pipes can become oval-shaped, develop internal blisters, and lose structural integrity entirely.
If you suspect your property has pitch fibre drainage, a CCTV survey is highly recommended. Early detection can save you from major excavation costs down the line.
At District Drainage & Water Services, we’re one of the few specialist teams equipped to handle pitch fibre pipe re-rounding and repair. Using advanced “no-dig” trenchless technology, we can often reshape and reinforce your existing pipes without the need to dig up your property.
Once the pipes are re-rounded, we install a cured-in-place lining to restore structural strength and ensure long-term performance. This process not only saves time and cost but also protects against future issues like:
In many cases, full pipe replacement isn’t necessary—or even possible due to access restrictions. That’s where pipe relining comes in.
Using trenchless relining methods, we can repair damaged or degraded pipework with minimal disruption. A flexible liner is inserted into the existing pipe and cured in place, creating a seamless, watertight, and long-lasting inner pipe.
This “pipe within a pipe” approach restores your system to like-new condition—and the results are guaranteed to last for decades.
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Company number 16305887
