Licensed & Experienced Local Plumbers
Many older homes in Scarborough still have outdated lead water pipes connecting the city water main to the basement. While lead was commonly used in plumbing due to its resistance to corrosion and flexibility, it poses significant health risks. Studies show that high concentrations of lead in drinking water can cause serious health issues, including developmental problems in children and an increased risk of cancer.
If your home has lead pipes, it’s essential to replace them with safer materials like copper or plastic. Our licensed Scarborough plumbers specialize in lead pipe removal and new water service line installation, ensuring your home has a clean and reliable water supply.
Who Is Responsible for Lead Pipe Replacement?
A water service line consists of two portions:
• Private portion: The homeowner is responsible for the section from the property line to the basement.
• City portion: The municipality is responsible for the section from the road to the property line.
The City of Toronto’s Lead Pipe Replacement Program offers homeowners free replacement of the city-owned portion if they upgrade their private section. Our certified plumbers can help you complete your upgrade, making you eligible for this program.
How to Check If Your Water Service Line Is Lead
Not sure if your home has lead pipes? Here are three ways to find out:
1. Call 311 – Request records from Toronto Water regarding your pipe material and size.
2. Schedule an Inspection – Hire a licensed Toronto plumbing contractor to conduct a visual inspection.
3. Water Testing – Contact Public Health to test your drinking water for lead contamination.
Benefits of Replacing Lead Water Pipes
Upgrading your lead pipes to copper or plastic offers several advantages:
Health & Safety – Eliminates lead contamination, ensuring clean, safe drinking water. Better Water Pressure – Older lead pipes typically have a ½-inch diameter, whereas new installations follow modern standards (¾-inch or larger), improving water flow. Increased Durability – New pipes and shut-off valves provide superior strength, reducing the risk of leaks and bursts. Higher Property Value – Replacing lead pipes enhances your home’s value, eliminating buyer concerns about outdated plumbing.Lead Pipe Replacement Methods
We use advanced techniques to upgrade your water service line efficiently:
1. Trench Excavation
• Ideal for areas with compacted or rocky soil.
• A trench is dug at least 4 feet deep to prevent freezing in winter.
2. Torpedo Drilling (Trenchless Method)
• Minimal disruption to landscaping.
• A torpedo drill creates a tunnel for the new pipe, reducing the need for extensive digging.
3. Combined Method
• Used when pipes must be rerouted around obstacles.
• A mix of excavation and torpedo drilling ensures a seamless installation.
Choosing the Right Pipe Size
According to Ontario plumbing codes, the minimum required size for a single-family home water service line is ¾-inch. However, larger sizes (1”, 1.25”, or 1.5”) may be recommended if:
- You plan to add a basement apartment or a laneway suite.
- You want to future-proof your home’s plumbing system.
With Toronto’s Lead Pipe Replacement Program, you may need to pay a small additional fee for a pipe larger than the standard ¾-inch.
Book Your Lead Pipe Replacement in Scarborough
If your home still has lead pipes, don’t wait—upgrade your private portion now and take advantage of the city’s free replacement program for the municipal side. Repairing old lead pipes is a temporary solution, while replacement ensures long-term safety and reliability.
Our experienced plumbing team has been replacing lead water lines for over 20 years. The process is typically completed in one day, including:
Locating underground utilities before excavation Professional installation of a new water service line Providing an invoice for your city replacement applicationNeed fast, professional, and reliable lead pipe replacement in Scarborough? Call us today at 416-834-6893 or submit an online request!