Significance of verdigris on copper pipe joints

Legacy_user

Copper piping system in my Victorian house has got verdigris along the joints. Should I replace?

Carrot007

Maybe, maybe not.


If you cannot see a leak (wrap in tissue for 24 hours) it really does not matter.

*j*

Probably because the flux used when soldering the joints was not cleaned off properly afterwards.


Clean it off, perhaps with wire wool, then wipe off with a damp cloth and you should find it won't return.

Gloomendoom

It could just be due to condensation forming on the pipes.

Tom99

As said above its caused by the flux not being cleaned off.

nofoollikeold

1. As stated by others above, almost certainly caused by flux residues not being cleaned off after soldering. Sloppy, but unfortunately far too frequent.
2. The flux is slightly acidic and attacks the copper. However, as it attacks it it gets neutralised, so after a while no further corrosion occurs.
3. Wipe each joint with a damp (fairly wet) cloth. Dry and rub with wire wool or an abrasive pad like a washing up sponge to get rid of the green. Provided there is no deep pitting, there is no issue.
4. Most unlikely to have leaks.

Grenage

Yeah that looks like your average pipe that hasn't had the flux cleaned off. I wouldn't even bother cleaning it when it's not on view.


When it comes to copper pipe, don't worry about it unless you've got a leak - and you'll know if you've got a leak.