A joint in a cast horizonal sewer pipe in my basement has started to seep. It is sealed with lead. What is the correct way to renew this jiont seal. Thanks for your help! Patrick

You recaulk the joint with inside and outside caulking inons. Good luck, Tom

OK, I'm lost! Can you give me more detailed instructions?

OK, I'm lost! Can you give me more detailed instructions?

It's really simple to recaulk a lead and oakum joint. You will need to rent inside and outside caulking irons, (see image) The iron with the outside bevel you will take your hammer and, using medium light hits, work around the inside of the lead joint. The iron with the inside bevel you will do the same on the outside of the joint. That's all there is too it. The lead joint will be compressing the oakum and your leak will be history. Number#1 iron has no bevel. No's 2 & 4 are inside irons and 3 & 5 are outside irons. Good luck, Tom

Now I'm with you! Thanks very much!