Major repairs require a professional.
Cast iron pipes last for a long time, but this does not mean they cannot become damaged and start to leak. Leaks are usually caused by corroding sections, often around the leaded joints. A do-it-yourselfer can repair small leaks in joints and small holes, but a professional should handle large leaks. Cast iron pipes need proper care and maintenance in order to last. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Leaking Joints
1. Turn off the water supply to the pipe. Tap the joint lightly with a cold chisel and hammer. Cast iron pipe joints are soldered with lead; use a cold chisel to push the lead back into the joint.
2. Clean the repair area by removing rust with a wire brush and dusting away debris with a clean rag.
3. Fill the leaking area with a cast iron repair paste applied with a putty knife.
4. Let the area dry before letting water or waste reenter the pipe.
Holes
5. Remove all rust and corrosion from the hole with a wire brush. Dust away debris with a clean rag.
6. Apply plumber's epoxy around the hole so the patch is flush with the existing area, using a putty knife. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on mix the epoxy.
7. Let the area dry before letting water or waste reenter the pipe.
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