The type of plumbing system in a home will determine how long it will last.
Just like everything else, a plumbing system won’t last forever. As decades pass, pipes rust, corrode, and decay. Unless a homeowner changes or upgrades the plumbing system, it can leak and cause extensive damage throughout the space.
But is a plumbing nightmare imminent or an issue for the distant future? Here are some tips to help assess if it is time to replace a plumbing system.
Knowing a home’s pipes
The type of plumbing system in a home will determine how long it will last. When purchasing a home, check the home inspection report and find out what type of pipes the home has. It’s also smart to hire a plumber to inspect the home’s plumbing system. Supply pipes made of copper, brass, and galvanized steel can last up to 80 years, while drain lines made of PVC, polyvinyl chloride, or cast iron can last up to 40 years. If the pipes are much older than these, they can still be replaced. Well-maintained pipes last much longer, while those that are poorly maintained, as well as those with hard water, tend to fail sooner. Regardless of the kind of pipes in the home, it’s important to keep an eye on them.
Remove polybutylene and lead
Polybutylene and lead pipes are two types of water supply pipes that should be removed regardless of how long they have been used in the home. Lead pipes, used during the early 1900s, have a lifespan of 100 years. However, they could leach lead into drinking water, posing a severe health risk. Meanwhile, polybutylene pipes used between the 1970s and 1990s are highly susceptible to breaks
Signs of trouble
If a house is over 60 years old, check for any exposed pipes at least once a year for signs of trouble. Inspect the tubes for stains, discoloration, flaking, or dimpling. These are all signs of corrosion. If any irregularities are found, call in a plumber to perform an inspection.
Always keep an eye out for leaks. Even the smallest ones can be signs that the time to have them replaced is fast approaching. After all, the original plumbing pipes in a home are made of the same material and have been exposed to the same usage patterns and water supply.
Another great way to check for signs of trouble is by filling any bathtubs in the home and checking the color of the water. If the water looks yellow or brown, that is an indication of decay and rust inside the pipes. Consider replacing them soon.
If you need an honest, dependable plumber in the Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe or Chandler area, call Jimmy at 480-757-1273.
