Why replace it
- Some older homes in Ontario still have lead service pipes, mainly ones predating the 1950s. Lead in drinking water is a health concern, and the advice is to replace it. Galvanized steel services rust and narrow over time, reducing flow. Some homes have a 1/2-inch service that cannot keep up with modern bathrooms and irrigation.
- You can check yours where the pipe enters the basement: lead looks dull, gives under a fingernail and makes no ring when tapped, and a key scratched on it shows shiny silver. If you are not sure, we can look.
The work
- The private side runs from the property line to the house. The town's portion runs from the watermain under the road to the lot line and is the town's responsibility. Coordinating with the Town of Richmond Hill matters, because replacing only one side of a lead service is less effective.
- Depending on the yard, we dig a trench or pull new pipe trenchlessly from the curb stop to the foundation, then go through the wall and connect to a new main shut-off and meter setting. Utility locates are arranged first.
Signs you need this
- Low pressure everywhere in the house
- Soft grey pipe where water enters the basement
- Rust-tinted water from the first draw
- An older home with original service
- Planning a large renovation or addition
Inside the house
- At the foundation, a new main shut-off valve goes in, along with the meter connection as required by the town. If the house pressure is high, a pressure-reducing valve can be added at the same time.
- We flush the new line and the house plumbing after the switch, then test pressure and flow at a main-floor tap.
How the job runs
- 1
The current service material and size are confirmed.
- 2
Locates are arranged and the town is contacted about its side.
- 3
New pipe is installed from the curb to the foundation.
- 4
A new main valve goes in, then the lines are flushed and checked.
Richmond Hill note: most houses here sit on York Region municipal water with fairly hard supply, and many basements have a floor drain tied to the sanitary lateral. Mention both on the phone; it changes what goes on the truck.
Want a second opinion on your own pipes first? Dial (365) 363-1575; the person answering holds the wrench.