Older homes can be incredibly charming. However, along with one-of-a-kind features, you may also face unique challenges regarding the plumbing system. How do you know when it’s time to replace your pipes? Watch for these signs.
Old Age
Different piping materials have different life spans, but if your home is over 60 years old and still has the original plumbing, it could be time to replace it. Many plumbers install iron piping to lower the cost, but iron wears out relatively quickly and may affect water quality if it rusts. For superior durability and longevity, we recommend replacing your old plumbing with copper pipes.
Leaks
Never ignore mysterious wet spots around your home. These are signs of possible plumbing leaks, which can cause property damage and mold growth if left unaddressed. To help you detect hidden leaks, be on the lookout for wall and ceiling stains. Lingering musty odors could also indicate that mold is growing behind the walls as a result of damaged, leaky pipes.
Frequent Clogs
Do your sinks and bathtubs clog easily? Make sure your family is careful about what they put down the drain. If the problem continues, it could mean the pipes are corroding from the inside out. Galvanized steel pipes are the most susceptible to this problem. As rust narrows the circumference of the pipe, clogs become more frequent. Only repiping can get things flowing smoothly again.
Discolored Water
Another sign of rust inside the pipe is the appearance of yellow or brown sediment in your tap water. If this happens, contact your utility provider to find out if the local water supply has been affected. If the water doesn’t clear up after about a day, contact a plumber to discuss the possibility of replacing your pipes.
Low Water Pressure
The same corrosion that causes drains to clog up can reduce the flow of incoming water. Talk to your neighbors to find out if anyone else is struggling with low water pressure. After all, the issue could be on the utility side. If the problem is limited to your home, call a plumber. It may be possible to increase the water pressure by other means, or it might be time for a pipe replacement.
Lead Pipes
Lead was once prized for its malleability, which made it a popular plumbing material. However, we now know that lead causes learning disabilities and stunted growth, especially in children. Astonishingly, about 10 million homes across the US still get water through lead service lines. Have your plumbing inspected for lead, and replace the pipes if this harmful material is discovered.
Choosing the right contractor to complete your repiping project is vitally important. At Puget Sound Plumbing & Heating, we’ll walk you through the process from start to finish. For your peace of mind, we offer lifetime warranty coverage, which means we’ll fix any problems that arise with your new pipes. For more information or to schedule a pipe replacement in Seattle, WA, please contact us at (206) 350-0079 today.