Pitch Fibre Drain Repairs

in Berkshire

Pitch Fibre Drain Repairs
(Re-rounding) in Berkshire

We are a recognised leader in pitch fibre drain repair in Berkshire, backed by years of specialist experience and a proven track record. Our skilled team has refined the process of no-dig drain restoration, making it the most efficient and least disruptive solution for homeowners and businesses alike.

Using advanced technology, including our custom winch system, we’re able to reshape and reline deformed pitch fibre pipes without the need for costly excavation. This approach not only restores the structural integrity of your drainage system but also saves time, reduces mess, and extends the life of your drains.

What are pitch fibre drains?

Introduced in the 1940s, pitch fibre drain pipes were used extensively across Berkshire until the 1970s. Initially thought to be a better alternative to fired clay pipes, they were cheaper and lightweight, which made the easy to handle.

Made from wood fibre impregnated with coal tar, they performed well when dealing with normal waste water. Subsequently, they have been found to react badly when subjected to large quantities of hot water, oils and fats. This causes the tar soften and cause deformation and leaks in the pitch fibre drains.

The design life of pitch fibre drains has been estimated at 40 years, meaning that most pitch fibre drains in Berkshire have reached the end of their life expectancy. In severe cases they can collapse, blocking the drain completely.

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We offer fast, reliable, and affordable pitch fibre drain repair services in Berkshire, as well as covering all Berkshire. With years of hands-on experience, our team is fully equipped to diagnose and fix pitch fibre drain issues quickly using no-dig technology—minimising disruption to your home or business while saving you money on costly excavation work.

Best of all, we believe in honest, transparent service. If we can’t fix your drain in Berkshire, we guarantee you won’t be charged—not even a call-out fee. It’s part of our commitment to providing high-quality drainage solutions without the expensive bill.

Fully Qualified Pitch Fibre drainage engineers

Our pitch fibre drainage engineers are DBS checked and are always ready to deliver fast and thorough drain repair in Berkshire.

A friendly and reliable experience is a pillar of our service, which is why our engineers are always careful, punctual and courteous. They endeavour to show you and your home the respect it deserves, while also providing a thorough resolution to your pitch fibre drain problem and helping you understand the cause with additional preventative advice for the future.

How do you repair Pitch Fibre drains in Berkshire?

SaS Drainage have extensive experience repairing damaged pitch fibre drains in Berkshire. We operate throughout Berkshire, delivering effective and minimally disruptive drain repair solutions. Our team has perfected a reliable ‘no dig’ method, which involves reshaping the deformed pipe using a mechanical re-rounding technique. This is done by winching a specialist ‘re-rounding cone’ through the affected section of pipe, restoring it to its original shape without the need for excavation.

Once re-rounded, we thoroughly clean the pipe and inspect it using our advanced CCTV drain camera. After confirming the success of the procedure, we install a Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP) structural liner. This liner reinforces the pipe, holds its shape permanently, and prevents future deformation—ensuring a long-term, cost-effective solution for properties across Berkshire.

Pitch Fibre Drain Repair

Frequently asked questions

What problems can occur with pitch fibre drains?

Internal blistering, caused by deterioration can cause blockages and eventually close up the entire pipeline.
Pitch fibre is prone to deterioration caused by age, chemical erosion, weight stress and being poorly laid.
Over time, pitch fibre becomes porous, washing away subsoil and causing subsidence. This also attracts shrub and tree roots, causing further damage.
The delicate nature of pitch fibre means that the usual methods of drain clearance, e.g. high pressure jetting, can cause further structural damage.

What is the life expectancy of a pitch fibre drain?

Best estimates suggest that pitch fibre drains have a life expectancy of approximately 40 years. The vast majority of pitch fibre drains were installed between 1950-1970, meaning that most have reached the end of their life expectancy. In severe cases pitch fibre drains have been known to collapse, blocking the drain run.

How do you repair a broken pitch fibre drain?

We have perfected a ‘no dig’ repair solution, to minimise disruption and prevent the need for excavations. This involves reshaping the deformed pipe by winching a ‘re-rounding cone’ through the damaged area. This returns the drain to its original shape. All of this can be done quickly and efficiently without the need for disruptive excavation.

Can pitch fibre drain repair ensure the long-term functionality of the drainage system?

Yes, when conducted by experienced professionals, pitch fibre drain repair using advanced techniques can restore the drain’s structural integrity, ensuring long-term functionality and durability.

Is pitch fibre drain repair cost-effective compared to replacement?

In many cases, repairing pitch fibre drains is a cost-effective alternative to complete replacement. A professional assessment can determine the most economical solution.

How long does pitch fibre drain repair typically take?

The duration of repair depends on the extent of the damage. However, no-dig technology often allows for a faster and more efficient repair process compared to traditional excavation methods.

How do I know if my drain is made of pitch fibre and requires repair?

A professional drainage inspection, often utilising CCTV technology, can identify the material of your drain and assess its condition to determine if repairs are necessary.

What areas do you provide your pitch fibre drain repair service to?

We offer expert pitch fibre drain repair services across a wide range of towns and counties in the South of England and the Midlands. Whether your property is suffering from deformed pipes or collapsed sections, our no-dig solutions are fast, cost-effective, and hassle-free. Browse the full list below to see if we cover your area—our experienced team is ready to help.

Belper, Borrowash, Castle Donnington, Chellaston, Derby, Derbyshire, Duffield, Ashbourne, Ednaston, Hucknall, Kegworth, Long Eaton, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, Nuthall, Ruddington, Stapleford, West Bridgford, Chesterfield, Mansfield, Matlock, Alvaston, Arnold, Beeston, Chilwell, Clifton, West Sussex, Berkshire, Hampshire, Surrey, Horsham, Marlow, Hayes, Middlesex, Eastleigh, Farnborough, Bordon, Winchester, Southampton, Portsmouth, Basingstoke, Alton, Aldershot, Maidenhead, Bracknell, Brighton, Crawley, Worthing, Weybridge, Leatherhead, Woking, Epsom, Farnham, Camberley, Guildford, Godalming

What does a Drain CCTV Inspection in Berkshire Look Like?

Using our advanced colour CCTV technology, we can effortlessly pinpoint the precise location of a broken pitch fibre drain and, crucially, determine the most effective method for remedying the issue.

In the event of a structural problem within the pitch fibre drain, our comprehensive repair options include two primary solutions. The first involves excavation, where our skilled team meticulously excavates the affected area to access and repair the damaged section. Alternatively, we deploy innovative no-dig technology to restore the pipe to its original shape before applying the relining process. This non-invasive approach is particularly advantageous for minimising disruption to your property and its surroundings while still ensuring a thorough and enduring resolution to the structural issues within the pitch fibre drain. Whether through traditional excavation or the application of cutting-edge no-dig techniques, our goal is to restore the pitch fibre drain efficiently, ensuring it functions optimally and remains resilient for the long term.

Rated 5 out of 5

Recent Pitch Fibre Repair Feedback

SaS are extremely professional and I would highly recommend them. I asked several companies to inspect my external drains and provide me a report with recommendations and expected costs. SaS were the clear winner in my option. Great value for money with quality service.

SAS Drainage and Groundworks Limited arrived extremely promptly and immediately sourced the problem under the manhole cover. The blockage was cleared very quickly with no mess.

Excellent family run hands on company. Communication very fast and responsive. Good diagnostic approach to problem and very satisfactory outcome

Work started on agreed date and was finished sooner than I expected. Area was left clean and tidy considering they had to drill through concrete. It was almost like they were never there. Very pleased. Thank you.

Punctual, knowledgeable and professional. Good quality of work; if needed SAS Drainage and Groundworks Limited would be my preferred contractor to undertake the drainage works surveyed.

Very prompt, courteous and knowledgeable. Would definitely use again.

Will definitely recommend SAS to others. Very happy that blocked drain was diagnosed and cleared so promptly.

Want to get your pitch fibre drain repaired?

Interested in our pitch fibre drain repair service in Berkshire? We cover all of Berkshire too. Get in touch with our team of experienced drainage specialists today to learn more. We’re always happy to answer your questions and help you resolve your pitch fibre drain issues quickly and effectively.

Expert Drain pitch fibre drain repairs in the midlands and south of england

Our dedicated team of experts in pitch fibre drain repair provides comprehensive coverage across the Midlands, Surrey, Hampshire, West Sussex, and Berkshire. We are delighted to offer complimentary drainage advice over the phone, regardless of your location.