Cast iron pipe repairs in Edinburgh

Do you have a leaking cast iron pipe or an old drainage pipe giving you trouble? Whether it’s cracked pipes, blocked drainage, or rusty joints, our plumbers can help - get in touch for your cast iron pipe repairs in Edinburgh.

What causes drainage problems in older Edinburgh properties?

Many older Edinburgh homes still have their original cast iron drainage systems, with some pipes in the city over 150 years old.  Over time, they start to block up, corrode and then crack.

Drainage issues usually show up as damp walls, musty smells, or when your sink is slow to drain away.  If that sounds familiar, it’s worth getting things checked before a small leak turns into a major problem.

Cast Iron drainage repairs

We work on both external and internal cast iron pipes, from roof rain water drainage to bathroom toilet waste pipes.  If your drainage pipe can be repaired and are in reasonable shape, we can often repair the pipe or joint rather than replacing the whole thing.  That could mean sealing a joint, replacing a short section, or fitting a more modern connection like a time saver clamp to connect your pipes together.  If you have a communal pipe repair needing replaced or repaired, talk to us today for advice on how to best get the work done.

Repairing leaks in cast iron pipes

Leaks often show up as stains on ceilings or walls.  Sometimes, you might hear water dripping behind the plaster.  If caught early, we can seal or clamp the pipe.  For older pipes that are in poor condition, we might recommend swapping out the worst parts to prevent future leaks.  A lot of the time, when the pipe passes through the wall, the pipe in the wall will be a lead pipe and these pipes are very prone to cracking and holes forming.

Our plumber Bruce replacing a cast iron drain pipe.

Signs your drainage system needs replaced

It’s not always possible to patch things up.  You might need a replacement if:

  1. You’re dealing with frequent leaks or blockages
  2. The pipework is heavily rusted or cracked
  3. There’s a strong smell of sewage
  4. Water is backing up or draining slowly away (very common in tenement buildings in Edinburgh)

👉 The grey hair may be a give away, but our plumber Bruce has been replacing cast iron pipes for over 50 years. 

Cast iron drain pipe replacement for Edinburgh tenements.

Our drain pipe replacement process for Edinburgh properties

First, we’ll usually carry out an initial on site inspection, and if needed, put together a photographic job report.  Once we see what’s going on, we’ll explain what needs replaced and why.  We will then send you a quote to carry out the work.

The good news is that most of the time, we can swap the old cast iron pipes with modern materials like PVC that meet current building regulations.

Of course, if you would prefer to, or are required to, replace with new cast iron pipes we can do that too!

We always keep disruption to a minimum and clean up before we leave.

We had a leaking drain pipe joint fixed. We received a response within a couple of hours of requesting one. He came at the agreed time. He did a neat job and didn't leave any mess. Very pleased.

PETER | LANDLORD, EDINBURGH

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This rusty cast iron down pipe is leaking and needs repaired.

Can we repair these types of drain pipes?

Yes, we specialise in repairing a wide range of drainage pipe types, including older cast iron, lead, and plastic systems.  If your drainage system still has its original metal pipework (Cast Iron), we’ve worked on something similar before.

We regularly repair and replace:

  1. Cast iron soil stacks and waste pipes.
  2. Lead water pipes in basements or behind walls.
  3. PVC and ABS plastic drainpipes.

 

Scottish Government Building Standards Approved Certifier (BSAC).

Certified Drainage Specialists

We’re Scottish Government approved, WaterSafe registered, and part of SNIPEF.  That means you’re in safe hands and our plumbers have been put though their paces to ensure quality repairs and replacement cast iron drainage repairs.

Choosing a Certified Drainage Specialist means you get:

  • Honest advice from local drainage experts.
  • Fully insured work.
  • Clear quotes with no surprises.
  • Plumbers with over 50 years experience (not every plumber wants to fix or replace cast iron pipes).

Choose Celsius for your cast iron drainage pipe repairs

If you’re based in Edinburgh and need a cast iron drain pipe replaced or repaired, you’re looking for a plumber who responds quickly, arrives on time, and provides a hassle-free service.  That’s exactly what you get with Celsius Plumbing & Heating.  We make the process smooth and stress-free so you can get back to what matters most.

Our plumbers are able to diagnose and fix most issues on the spot, thanks to the parts we carry in our vans.  Plus, we provide a 12-month aftercare service on all work we carry out, giving you peace of mind that your hot water system is in safe hands.

From servicing boilers and installing new boilers right through to blocked pipes, tap repairs or new radiators, you can rely on our team for full plumbing services.

 

Get in touch

If you are ready to get your drainage pipe repaired or replaced by the Celsius Plumbing team, please click the ‘Book a Repair’ button below, or phone us on 0131 258 0848.

How long do cast iron pipes last?

Cast iron pipes usually last 50 to 70 years if they’ve been looked after.  After that, rust becomes a problem and can cause the pipe to leak.  We do however regularly work on pipes over 150 years old and we can still repair these.

Can you fix leaks without replacing the whole pipe?

In many cases, yes.  If the damage is not throughout the pipe (like a crack), we’ll aim for a repair first, but will always give best honest advice.

Do you work inside and outside the property?

Yes, we repair both internal waste pipes and external drainage systems.

Is the work guaranteed?

Yes, all work is covered by our 12 month workmanship guarantee and is carried out by approved engineers.

Can you help with communal cast iron drain repairs?

Yes we can, first step is to get in touch and we can discuss what your requirements are.

What is the most common type of cast iron repair you do?

Mostly blocked cast iron drainage pipes that eventually corrode over many years.  The pipes eventually crack and leak.  If not attended to, the leak can get worse and cause significant damage to properties.

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gas safe register logo. Scottish Government Building Standards Approved Certifier (BSAC). SNIPEF awards business of the year finalist SNIPEF Approved Edinburgh Trusted Trader Celsius are Water Safe approved plumbers.

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