Water Mains Replacement
Downham Market
& Surrounding Areas
Mains Water Pipe Replacement in Downham Market and Norfolk
When an underground water supply pipe develops a leak, becomes damaged or starts to deteriorate, repairing the problem properly can help prevent ongoing water loss and repeated disruption.
Getting replacement piping may seem like a daunting task. You might think “This is going to be very expensive and time consuming” and you might not even know what work you need done.
Here at Downham Drainage, we offer repairs and replacements for underground water supply pipes which run from the external water meter to the internal stopcock inside your property. We’ll investigate suspected leaks, identify the condition of the existing pipework and recommend the most appropriate solution for your property.
As a WaterSafe registered and Anglian Water approved contractor, we understand the requirements involved in working on drinking-water supply pipework.
Signs your Mains Water Pipe May Need Repairing or Replacing
It’s not always obvious when you’ve got a leak. Water supply pipes are underground, so it can be hard to tell when something’s wrong. If you notice any of the following you may need to have your pipe inspected:
An unexplained increase in your water bills
Recurring problems can indicate that the wider pipe is reaching the end of its useful life
Your water meter is moving when no water is being used
Recurring problems can indicate that the wider pipe is reaching the end of its useful life
Reduced or inconsistent water pressure
Recurring problems can indicate that the wider pipe is reaching the end of its useful life
Damp, soft or unusually green patches outside
Recurring problems can indicate that the wider pipe is reaching the end of its useful life
Water pooling on a driveway, lawn or path
Recurring problems can indicate that the wider pipe is reaching the end of its useful life
The sound of running water when taps are turned off
Recurring problems can indicate that the wider pipe is reaching the end of its useful life
Discoloured water
Recurring problems can indicate that the wider pipe is reaching the end of its useful life
Old lead, galvanised steel or deteriorating pipework
Recurring problems can indicate that the wider pipe is reaching the end of its useful life
Repeated leaks along the same supply pipe
Recurring problems can indicate that the wider pipe is reaching the end of its useful life
Previous repairs that haven't provided a lasting solution
Recurring problems can indicate that the wider pipe is reaching the end of its useful life
If you suspect you have a leak, we can investigate and help establish where the problem is coming from before recommending the appropriate repair
Water Mains Pipe Replacement Methods
Replacing an underground water supply pipe doesn’t necessarily mean excavating the entire route. The installation method we use will depend on what we find in the initial assessment, along with the ground conditions, the route of the existing pipe, and the property itself.
There are three main methods of replacing a mains pipe: Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD), Moling, and Trenching.
Horizontal Directional Drilling
Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) is a new technique used to replace piping. Engineers will use a radar and a pilot bore to drill a small pilot hole along a planned underground path. Once this initial path has been drilled, a reamer is used to expand the width of the path, and the pipe is then attached to said reamer and pulled back through the tunnel. This method is non-invasive so is ideal for already landscaped areas.
Moling
Moling is a cost effective way to lay a short length of pipe. Engineers dig two holes, for entry and exit, at the required depth for the new pipe. An impact mole is then set up and drills through the soil from the entry hole to the exit hole. The pipe is then laid, and the holes can be filled easily and it’ll be as if the work never took place.
Trenching
Trenching is a last resort, very disruptive process. Heavy machinery is used to dig a long trench for the entire length of new piping. The pipe is then placed inside the trench, and then filled in. This method is very time consuming and messy, and is only ideal for areas yet to be landscaped.
Why Choose Downham Drainage?
Choosing a contractor to replace an underground water supply pipe is about more than simply installing a new pipe. You need someone who can assess the cause of the problem, explain your options and carry out the work correctly.
Our local, family-run company is WaterSafe registered and Anglian Water approved.
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This means you can trust us to ensure your drinking water won’t be contaminated as we comply with water regulations and follow strict requirements in our work.
We can offer you clear advice on which water replacement technique you need for your property. We’ll perform an assessment of your pipework, and give you a detailed report so you can decide whether you want the work done. Working for both commercial and domestic customers, you’re guaranteed to find the best solution here.