Expert Solutions for Water Pipe Challenges
Why Replacing Water Pipes in Pre-1970 Homes Is Crucial—and How Moling Makes It Easier
Owning an older home comes with charm, character, and unfortunately often a few hidden challenges. If your house was built before 1970, there’s a good chance your water pipes are overdue for a serious check-up; or even a full replacement. At Ivanhoe Groundworks, we’ve seen first-hand how outdated plumbing can cause serious issues on homes. We are here to explain why replacing those aging pipes is so important, plus how modern trenchless methods like Moling can save you time, money and a torn-up garden.
The Problem with Pre-1970 Pipes
Homes built before 1970 often rely on pipes made from materials like lead, galvanized steel, or early cast iron. These materials were standard back in the day, but they don’t last forever. Here’s why they are a ticking time bomb:
Corrosion and Wear: Over decades, steel and iron pipes rust and corrode, leading to leaks, reduced water pressure, and even contamination. Do you have Lead pipes? They’re an even bigger concern due to health risks which are the lead leaching into drinking water is a serious health risk.
Smaller Diameters: Older pipes were often narrower, designed for lower water usage. Modern households have dishwashers, washing machines and powerful showers. These all put much more demand on these systems, causing strain and frequent failures.
Root Intrusion and Cracks: Mature trees and shifting soil around pre-1970 homes can invade or crack pipes, especially if they’re made of brittle clay or deteriorating metal. One small leak can quickly turn into a costly flood causing you major issues and expense in trying to sort out the situation.
if your home still has its original plumbing, you might already notice warning signs: rusty water, frequent leaks, or a drop in pressure. Ignoring these red flags can lead to bigger headaches—think burst pipes, water damage, or skyrocketing repair bills. Replacing them isn’t just maintenance; it’s an investment in your home’s safety and value.
Enter Moling: The Trenchless Revolution
The good news? You don’t need to dig up your entire garden or yard to fix the problem. Traditional pipe replacement often meant trenches, mess and days of disruption. Today, trenchless technology—like Moling—changes the game.
Here’s how it works and why it’s perfect for older homes:
What Is Moling? Moling uses a pneumatic “mole” device to bore underground tunnels between two small access points. New pipes (usually durable, modern materials like HDPE) are then pulled through, replacing the old ones with minimal surface disturbance.
Why It’s Great for Pre-1970 Homes: Older properties often have established landscaping—think patios, driveways or lovingly tended gardens. Moling avoids tearing these up, preserving your home’s curb appeal and all of your planting, while upgrading its plumbing.
Speed and Savings: Compared to trenching, Moling is faster and less labour-intensive, cutting down on costs and downtime. Most jobs take just a day or two, depending on the layout.
Trenchless methods aren’t just about convenience: they are about doing the job right. New pipes installed this way are corrosion-resistant, built to handle modern water demands and designed to last for decades. For a pre-1970 home, it’s like giving your plumbing a 21st-century upgrade without the 20th-century mess.
Don’t Wait for a Disaster
If your house predates 1970, waiting for a pipe to fail isn’t a strategy—it’s a gamble. Proactive replacement prevents emergencies, protects your water quality and boosts your property’s efficiency. And with Moling, the process is smoother than ever. No trenches, no chaos—just reliable pipes installed by experts who know older homes inside and out.
Ready to Upgrade Your Pipes?
At Ivanhoe Groundworks, we specialize in water pipe replacement for homes just like yours. Using state-of-the-art trenchless techniques like Moling, we’ll get your plumbing up to speed with minimal fuss. Curious if your pipes need attention? Look out for discoloured water, strange noises, or soggy spots in your garden or yard. If you have any, give us a call on 07581 382852 and speak to Jonny.
Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s keep your home flowing strong for years to come!
Call Jonny on 07581 382852 or email us on jon@ivanhoegroundworks.com.
