Corrosion is a common issue usually impacting older pipes exposed over time to moisture, heat and chemicals. A corroded pipe end is particularly troublesome as it will mean sections of pipework joined together by clamps or seals no longer have a watertight connection, leading to leaks.
Replacing pipes which are suffering with corroded ends is costly and time-consuming. Further complications can come if the pipe system in question is old.
It may be the case that the original pipe type used is no longer manufactured or available. Newer, replacement pipes will often not connect to older pipework, leaving the prospect of an entire system having to be replaced – not just the sections which are corroded.
A faster, more cost-effective and sustainable solution is to seal and repair corroded pipe ends using an epoxy putty.
1) Turn off water supply
Before you begin, ensure the water supply to the affected pipe is completely turned off if possible.
Most epoxy putties will struggle to bond if water is leaking out, although you can buy specialist formulations for underwater pipe repair.
If the pipe is part of a larger system, you may need to locate the main shut-off valve.
2) Prepare the repair area
Dry the section of the pipe that needs repair thoroughly. Use rags to wipe away moisture and leave the pipe to air dry for a few minutes.
The drier the pipe is, the stronger the bond achieved by the epoxy putty.
3) Clean the corroded pipe ends
A corroded pipe end is likely to be rough and covered in debris, which can prevent the epoxy putty adhering effectively.
Start by scrubbing the pipe ends with a wire brush to remove rust and dirt. Then use sandpaper or an abrasive pad to smooth the surface.
4. Mix the epoxy putty
Epoxy putty comes in two formats. The resin and hardener may be supplied as separate components, which must be measured out in equal measures.
An epoxy putty stick meanwhile comes pre-measured with resin on the outside and hardener in the middle. The user simply cuts the amount of putty required from the stick, removing the need to measure out correct ratios of the two parts.
Epoxy putty is kneaded together by hand. Gloves should be worn as the putty can be sticky and may irritate skin.
The mixing stage is completed when the putty turns a uniform colour and is streak free. It should still be soft and workable.
5. Apply the epoxy putty to the corroded pipe end
After mixing, apply the epoxy putty all around the connection between the corroded pipe ends. Push the putty into gaps and cracks and fill all voids as completely as possible.
Once the pipe ends have been convincingly sealed together, additional putty can be moulded and shaped into a ring around the joint. Epoxy putty can be smoothed with a little water if necessary.
Different epoxy putties come with different work times. If using a fast setting epoxy putty, you will need to work quick as it will begin to harden in between 5 and 10 minutes.
For more complex repairs requiring careful application without the threat of premature curing, it may be better to use a slower setting epoxy putty with an extended work time.
6. Fit a new clamp or seal over the corroded pipe end
Additional reinforcement should be given to the repair by fitting a pipe repair clamp or seal over the corroded pipe end whilst the putty remains soft.
The clamp or seal will compress the putty further against the pipe, forcing it into any remaining imperfections.
7. Leave the epoxy putty to cure
The functional cure and full cure time of the epoxy putty should be provided on the packaging or with the instructions. During this time, avoid disturbing the repair.
Most epoxy manufacturers would advise the repair to be left overnight as this allows the putty to achieve a full cure with maximum properties.
8. Test the repair
Once the epoxy putty has fully cured, turn the water supply back on. Carefully check the repaired pipe joint for any signs of leaks or moisture.
If the putty has set correctly, the repair should be watertight and durable. If you notice any leaks, you may need to remove the clamp or seal and apply more putty.
9. Finish the Job
Cured putty can be painted over, should you wish to disguise the repair. If time and space allows, the repair area can be overwrapped with a composite pipe repair bandage, creating a rock hard, impact resistant shell over the joint.
Leave a Reply