Leaks
When water within a pipe turns to ice during a cold snap it will expand and eventually cause pipe work to split the walls of the pipe or forces a joint apart. Blackheath Plumber are qualified plumbers dealing with this and other issues. Copper pipework is more likely to split than lead, which can stretch to accommodate the expansion and thus survive a few hard winters before reaching breaking point. Arrange to replace any old lead with copper pipe as soon as possible. The only other reason for leaking plumbing is mechanical failure either through deterioration of the materials or because a joint has failed and is no longer completely waterproof. If possible, make a permanent repair, by inserting a new section of pipe or replacing the leaking joint. (If it is a compression joint that has failed, try tightening it first.) For the time being, however, you may have to make an emergency repair. Drain the pipe first unless it is frozen, in which case make the repair before it thaws. Binding a leaking pipe For a temporary repair, cut a length of garden hose to cover the leak and slit it lengthwise, so you can slip it over the pipe. Bind the hose with two or three hose clips; or, using pliers, twist wire loops around the hose. Alternatively, use self amalgamating tape designed for binding damaged pipework. Epoxy putty adheres to most metals and hard plastics. The putty is supplied in two parts which begin to harden as soon as they are mixed, giving about 15 minutes to complete the repair. First clean a 25 to 50mm length of pipe on each side of the leak, using wire wool. Mix the putty and press it into the hole or around a joint, building it to a thickness of 3 to 6mm. It will cure to full strength within 24 hours, but you can run low-pressure water immediately if you bind the putty with self-adhesive tape. All this equipment is carried by a Blackheath Plumber.