If your home’s piping is starting to give you problems, it may be time to consider replacing them. When your home’s piping is new, you can often get away with repairs here and there. However, eventually, all pipes will need to be replaced; so in older homes, it is often a good idea to simply perform a pipe replacement.
Here are seven signs that your pipes need to be replaced.
Number 1: Cracking
This is one of the easiest signs to catch. This is because if your pipes are beginning to crack, it is only a matter of time until water begins to leak. So, keep an eye out for areas water may be soaking through walls and floors. It is critical in this case to quickly have this solved to avoid mold growth.
In areas of exposed piping, you may be able to spot water actively leaking from the pipes themselves. By quickly spotting this, you may be able to prevent damage to surrounding areas of the home.
Number 2: Internal Corrosion
If your pipes are frequently clogging, it may be due to what you are putting into them. However, as your pipes age, corrosion can set in on the inside of your pipes. This can build up, causing your pipes to clog more easily. If this is happening, your pipes will eventually need to be replaced to solve this problem.
Number 3: Leaking
This can be caused by cracks in the pipes, but it can also be caused by loose connections. When a connection is loose, it starts out small, but pressure can cause it to grow and cause damage. If the pipe has suffered too much damage, repair may not be possible, and replacement may be necessary.
Number 4: Water Discoloration
When you turn on a faucet, you want water to come out clean and clear. If it appears yellow, orange, or to have sediment, this is a problem. This can be caused by a problem with the water main. However, this also can be due to rust build-up in the pipes. If this does not clear up within a day or two, it’s time to call a plumber, and typically the pipes will need to be replaced.
Number 5: Lead Pipes
Most people are aware that lead, including lead pipes, can be dangerous and lead to developmental disabilities in children and reproductive issues in adults, among other issues. However, what most people aren’t aware of is that lead pipes are still prevalent in many homes. If you suspect your home may have lead pipes, it is important to find out quickly and have them replaced immediately.
Number 6: Low Pressure
Decreased water pressure can be caused by issues in the water main, but if it seems to always be present, chances are it’s a sign you need new pipes. It is possible that your home’s plumbing isn’t up to the task, and replacement is necessary to fix it.
Number 7: Aging Pipes
All piping will degrade eventually and need to be replaced, though at different rates. Typically galvanized steel and brass pipes will need to be replaced in less than 50 years and sometimes as quickly as 20. Copper and cast iron pipes can last as long as a century; however, they may need to be replaced as soon as 50 years. PVC pipes have a more indefinite time limit. But with any of these pipes, it is important to keep an eye out for signs that they need to be replaced earlier than their typical lifespans.
Final Thoughts
All pipes will need to be replaced eventually; it’s only a matter of time. By keeping an eye out for the signs that your home’s pipes need to be replaced, you can potentially avoid damage to your home and unnecessary inconvenience. So, before it comes time for your pipes to be replaced, watch out for any of these seven signs.
Contact Us
If your pipes are showing signs of aging, call J Griffin Heating & Plumbing. With more than 30 years of experience helping homeowners with their plumbing, we can diagnose the cause of your plumbing issue and determine if your pipes are in need of replacement. Call Us at 781-520-1212 and connect with us on Facebook.
