Plumbing pipes play an important role in maintaining the comfort and cleanliness of your home. They deliver clean water and also remove wastewater. When sometimes goes awry with your pipes it can disrupt your entire system. Most people don’t give much thought to their plumbing pipes until there is an issue, and unfortunately, issues can often catch people off guard. Natural wear and tear and environmental conditions can have a huge impact on the longevity of your pipes. In addition, there are different kinds of pipes made out of different materials that vary in lifespan. For example, copper supply lines typically last 50 years or more, while galvanized steel may last between 20 and 50 years. The materials of your pipes will depend on the age of your home. If you are unsure about what kind of pipes your home has, ask your plumber. You may also want to schedule a plumbing inspection to ascertain the condition of your pipes if you feel something is not right. Wondering if it is time to repipe your home? Read on to learn more about the common warning signs.
Leaking Pipes
A leaking pipe can happen for a variety of reasons. If the leak is localized then it could just be that pipe that needs to be replaced. However, if you are dealing with leaking pipes all over your home your pipes may be corroded. Corrosion leads to brittle pipes, which are more prone to leaks. Galvanized steel pipes are particularly sustainable to corrosion, which is why copper became widely used for supply lines in the 1940s because it is less susceptible in ideal water conditions. Plastic pipes gained popularity in the 1990s because they are reliable, affordable, and easy to work with. They are also not susceptible to corrosion, however, can be susceptible to leaks from improper installation and environmental conditions.
Less Than Ideal Water Conditions
The condition of your water when you turn on the faucet is important. You want to have clean water that is clear and does not have an unpleasant aroma. Water that is funny colored or has a funny smell is a sign that something is off with your plumbing. If it is just your hot water, it could very well be that you need a new water heater. However, if it is both hot and cold water then it could be something more. Discolored water is a sign of corrosion and water that smells off could be your pipes deteriorating into your water.
Water Pressure Issues
Like other symptoms, you may notice when it is time to repipe your home, you may notice issues with water pressure. This could be the result of corrosion or leaks. Keep in mind that you can have too little water pressure or too much water pressure. Too much water pressure can actually damage your supply lines, so if water comes shooting out of the faucet at blazing speeds, you may need to check your water pressure gauge to prevent damage.
Visible Signs Of Corrosion
One key sign it’s time to repipe your home is visible signs of corrosion. If you inspect your pipes yourself and notice that your pipes are corrosion, it’s a good indicator that it is time to replace them.
Have Your Plumbing Inspected
If you are concerned about the condition of your pipes, it’s a good idea to have your pipes inspected by a professional. Repiping your home can be a costly repair, so it is important to be able to properly diagnose the problem and plan for repairs. Schedule an inspection today with the professionals at Lesco.
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