Leaking Pipework in walls of Ashtead Properties

Client Locations – Ashtead, Surrey

Dabney Solution:
Clive Dabney at Dabney Plumbing Services visited both properties to make a general assessment of the problems and to meet the clients at their convenience.

Due to the age of both the shower valve and the bath tap and after making an enquiry at the local supplier it became apparent that parts were not available and had been discontinued. It was decided that both fittings would need to be removed. To achieve removal of the thermostatic shower and the wall mounted bath tap a certain number of tiles were carefully cut. Tiles were then removed. Access was made through the walls, both solid bricks. Plaster, bricks and old mortar were carefully chiselled away, mechanically and by hand to avoid damage to the hidden pipes.

At this stage rubble was taken away and the site areas cleaned. The internal concealed pipe work was now visible and ready for alterations. Before the isolation of the supplies, a check that the existing pipework is not crossed (hot on the left and cold on the right, in every instance). Hot and cold supplies to these areas were isolated. A new thermostatic shower valve and the new wall mounted bath tap could now be firmly fixed either using a custom-made base board & screws.

Most importantly and in both cases observing the correct distances to suit the finished wall surface. Preparations to pipe work and plumbing connections made. If brazing or soldering any copper then all supplies will be flushed through to remove any acidic fluxes that could potentially damage the new internal cartridges. Supplies reinstated and left on a full pressure test overnight. After a successful 24-hour test of the pipe work a rebuild was ready to commence. Bare copper pipe protected from aggressive chemicals in cements, PVA glue applied to dry, dusty surfaces to prevent suction. Breeze blocks cut to a suitable size to fill any major holes or gaps initially.

A suitable bonding plaster applied in and around the new shower valve and new bath tap to provide a flat, sound finish. Tiling to commence to both areas to match the original tile patterns with discreet cuts around fittings, grout applied to finish. Areas washed down with a high absorbent sponge and fully cleaned.