What to replace an old un-used pipe with?
Hi, we had to drill through the concrete floor in the kitchen as there was damp. We found a pipe leading from the air brick which had been half covered on the outside but water was coming into the house and down the pipe which was in rotting the joists. We dug the pipe and everything out that was under the concrete but we’re unsure what to replace it with? Thank you
Advice from 8 local tradespeople
the pipe must be removed from the perimeter of the house (if it is not used), protect the foundation of the house in order not to allow water and humidity to damage the foundation or the house.
Usually a section of plastic ppe pipe would be used to replace this section due to difficult access. Use brass compression couplings, you will find you have more leeway when connecting to old imperial size pipes.
If water ingress is coming from rainwater through the air brick, water should be diverted away and possibly waterproofing required at the air brick.
All the best.
you must bring a new one to the house, if the pipe was close to the gas, you must notify the gas company
LED pipe should be disconnected from the main and replaced with a new 25mm plastic blue pipe.
But you will a plumber on this one.
Fill the hole with a thick resin mix with the sawdust from the floor to match the colour
It sounds as though the structural integrity of your home could be compromised, so personally I would recommend that you consult a structural engineer before making any decisions.
To replace an old unused pipe that was causing damp issues, you'll want to consider a few options based on the purpose of the pipe and the conditions of your home. If the pipe was originally meant for drainage, you should replace it with a proper drainage pipe, such as PVC or a similar material that is suitable for underground use. Ensure that the new pipe has proper drainage capabilities to prevent water from pooling and causing further damp issues.
If it was an air vent or similar, you may want to install a new vent pipe that allows for proper airflow while preventing water ingress. Make sure to seal any connections properly to avoid future leaks.
It's also advisable to consult with a professional plumber or builder to assess the situation and ensure that whatever you choose is appropriate for your specific circumstances, especially since it involves structural elements like joists.
To address the issue of the old unused pipe and prevent further damp problems, consider the following steps:
Seal the Old Pipe: If the pipe is no longer in use, it should be properly sealed. Cap the pipe securely using a suitable pipe cap or plug. This will prevent water from entering the pipe and causing future issues.
Install a Drainage System: If the pipe was part of a drainage system, ensure that any replacement or new system is designed to handle water properly. Install a drainage system that directs water away from the foundation and prevents it from entering the building.
Improve Waterproofing: After sealing the pipe and addressing any drainage issues, focus on waterproofing the area. Apply a damp-proof membrane or sealant to the area where the concrete was removed and ensure that it is properly sealed and cured.
Reinforce the Concrete Floor: Once the old pipe is dealt with and waterproofing is in place, you can replace the concrete. Ensure proper compaction and leveling of the subfloor before pouring new concrete.
Consult a Professional: For best results, consult a professional plumber or damp specialist to ensure that all aspects of the pipe removal and replacement are handled correctly and to prevent future damp problems.
