Upgrade Your Water Line: Torpedo Drilling vs. Trench Excavation
Many Toronto homes built before the 1950s still rely on outdated lead pipes to supply drinking water. While lead pipes were once favored for their durability and flexibility, studies have shown that lead particles in drinking water pose significant health risks. Replacing these hazardous pipes with safe copper or plastic alternatives is essential to protect your family and comply with modern safety standards.
At Mister Plumber, we specialize in lead pipe replacement in Toronto, offering both trench excavation and torpedo drilling methods. Our experienced team can upgrade your old lead pipe to copper or plastic pipes in sizes ranging from 3/4” to 1.5”. No permit is required for replacing an existing pipe in Toronto, but new installations may require a permit. Most replacements are completed within a day, and we handle all necessary utility locates to ensure safe and efficient work.
Ready to upgrade your water service? Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation and estimate.
Methods of Lead Pipe Replacement
Trench Excavation Method
This traditional method is ideal for new construction or when the ground conditions are unsuitable for torpedo drilling.
1. Process:
• A trench is excavated from the property line to the house.
• The new pipe is installed, connecting the city’s water main to a new shut-off valve in the basement.
2. Benefits:
• Ensures the pipe is installed at a safe depth of four feet or more to prevent freezing.
• Copper Type “K” pipe is used, which is highly durable and flexible for underground applications.
3. Applications:
• Suitable for harder soils or when precise pipe alignment is required.
Torpedo Drilling Method
This modern technique minimizes property disruption and is highly popular in Toronto.
1. Process:
• A small excavation (3×3 feet) is made near the property line.
• Using a pneumatic torpedo drill, an underground channel is created from the basement to the property line.
• The new copper or plastic pipe is inserted, and the old lead pipe is disconnected and left underground.
2. Benefits:
• Minimal property damage—front lawns or gardens often remain intact.
• Ideal for distances up to 30 feet, which covers most Toronto homes.
3. Combination Approaches:
• For longer or more complex pipe layouts, trench digging and torpedo drilling are combined for optimal results.
Benefits of Replacing Lead Pipes
- Improved Water Quality: Eliminate lead contamination for safer drinking water.
- Enhanced Water Pressure: Upgraded pipes deliver better flow and pressure.
- Durability and Safety: Prevent pipe bursts and reduce the risk of flooding.
- Lower Insurance Premiums: Many insurers offer discounts for homes with modern plumbing.
- City Free Program: After replacing your private water line, submit the invoice to the City of Toronto to qualify for the free “Lead Pipe Replacement Program” to upgrade the city’s portion of the pipe.
Why Choose Mister Plumber?
Licensed and Certified: Toronto-licensed plumbing contractor.
Local Expertise: Serving Toronto homeowners for over 20 years.
Transparent Pricing: Upfront, competitive quotes with no hidden fees.
Free Consultations: No-obligation estimates for your peace of mind.
High-Quality Materials: Premium pipes and fittings for long-lasting results.
Efficient and Neat Service: Most projects completed in one day with minimal disruption.
Upgrade Your Lead Pipe Today
If your Toronto home still relies on outdated lead water pipes, it’s time to make the switch. At Mister Plumber, we make the process simple, safe, and efficient. Our team guides you through every step, from consultation to installation.
Contact Us Today:
Call us at 416-939-1530
Submit an online request for more information or to book your free estimate.
Choose Mister Plumber for reliable and professional water line replacement in Toronto. Protect your home, your family, and your future with a safe and modern water system.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lead Pipe Replacement in Toronto
Q: The City replaced the water pipe on the road, but they told me my private water line is still lead. How is that possible if I have copper pipe coming through the basement floor?
A: It is possible that your water line was partially repaired or replaced in the past. The copper pipe visible in your basement may extend only a short distance underground, while the remaining portion of the private water service between the property line and the basement may still be lead.
Mister Plumber recommends replacing the entire private water service from the property line to the basement. This provides one continuous new copper water line with no underground joints, with one end connected to the City’s water service and the other connected to the main shut-off valve in your basement.
Q: The City replaces a 3/4” lead water service on the City side at no charge, while choosing a 1” service costs approximately $600 extra. Is it worth upgrading to 1”?
A: If your home has five or more bathrooms, or you have or plan to add an additional dwelling or rental unit, upgrading to a 1” water service may be worth considering.
The additional cost of approximately $600 for the City-side upgrade can be relatively small compared with upgrading the private side later. Replacing an existing copper water service with a larger copper line can cost approximately $9,000, depending on the property and installation requirements.
Q: Can I upgrade my water meter when replacing my water service?
A: Toronto Water generally provides a larger water meter when both the City and private portions of the water service are upgraded.
From a plumber’s perspective, there is usually little difference between reconnecting an existing meter and installing a new meter. If the City portion of your water service has already been upgraded, contact the City of Toronto to determine when you can obtain the larger meter.
If you provide the new meter when the private water service is being replaced, Mister Plumber can typically install it as part of the same project.
Q: How can I determine whether my home’s main water service is made of lead or copper?
A: There are several ways to determine the material of your water service:
- Contact Toronto Water and ask whether they have records indicating the material of your service.
- Have your water tested for lead.
- Contact a licensed plumber to inspect the water service and determine what material is installed.
Mister Plumber recommends starting with a professional plumbing assessment. A plumber can inspect the exposed portion of the water service and help determine whether the underground portion may still contain lead.
Q: How long does it take to replace a lead water pipe with copper, and how long will the water be shut off?
A: In most cases, replacing the entire private water service can be completed in one day, although the exact time depends on the property, excavation requirements and other site conditions.
Mister Plumber typically starts the work around 8:30–9:00 a.m. and aims to complete the replacement the same afternoon. The water is normally shut off for approximately 3–4 hours during the actual replacement and connection of the new water service.
