Some things from the 50s, 60s and 70s have aged beautifully. The Mini Skirt? Timeless. Mid-century chairs? Still cool. The occasional vintage wallpaper? Surprisingly charming.
Pitch Fibre drainage pipes? Let’s just say… not everything from the past deserves a comeback tour.
Back in the day, Pitch Fibre was the “new wave” alternative to heavy clay pipes. Light, cheap and forward-thinking – a bit like flares and fondue sets. But while fondue can make a fun return at a dinner party, Pitch Fibre has proven to be the kind of retro that doesn’t quite hold up, especially underground.
So, Why Were Pitch Fibre Pipes Used?
They were made from compressed wood fibres and coal tar, sometimes strengthened with asbestos to help them cope underground. It was clever at the time — quick to install, easier to transport, budget-friendly.
But over the decades, pressure from the soil and hot water running through them has caused many Pitch Fibre pipes to soften, bubble or squash out of shape. Imagine a vinyl record left too close to the radiator — it’s the same sort of energy.
The important bit: if the pipe is intact and undisturbed, it’s generally safe. It’s when the deterioration starts that trouble can follow.
How Do You Know if You Have Pitch Fibre Pipes?
If your home was built between the 1940s and the 1970s, it might.
The simplest way to find out is with a CCTV drain survey – no digging, no mess, no guesswork. Think of it as giving your drains a quick MOT without taking them off the road.
What If There’s Damage?
Depending on what the survey shows, there are usually two routes:
- Repair
If things are still in fair condition, we can reshape or reline the pipe from the inside. This is the plumbing equivalent of giving your drains a supportive hug. - Replace
If the pipes have gone full “lava lamp collapse”, then we may need to excavate and replace them with modern plastic pipework. This is only recommended when repair isn’t possible – no unnecessary digging here.
Thinking of Buying a House from This Era?
It’s always worth checking. Pitch Fibre can look absolutely fine from the outside while quietly not being fine at all on the inside. A CCTV check at this stage is one of those small, sensible decisions that future you will be very proud of.
Need Some Advice?
We’re always happy to help.
Call Happy Drains on 07824 757572 / 0800 849 8099
to speak with one of our friendly drainage experts.
Best
David & Will