Nothing lasts forever, including the pipes in a home. Over the years, tubing can decay, rust, and corrode. Unless the plumbing is replaced, the homeowner will eventually have to deal with damaging leaks. Re-piping an average size home can cost up to $10,000, which means that most homeowners don’t want to do it unless absolutely necessary. Below are some tips on analyzing a plumbing system and determining the need for replacement.
Know the Pipes
The type of plumbing in the home determines the system’s life expectancy. Buyers should review the inspection report they received with their home purchase to see what type of pipes the home has. Alternatively, the buyer can hire a plumber in Renton for a free inspection. Brass, cast iron, and galvanized steel pipes can last up to 100 years, while PVC has a much shorter lifespan. Properly maintained pipes can last longer, and those without the proper maintenance may fail sooner.
Remove Polybutylene and Lead Pipes
Two types of supply pipes should be removed right away, regardless of age. Polybutylene pipes were used from the 70s to the 90s and are prone to breakage. Lead pipes were used in the early part of the 20th century, and while they have a long lifespan, they can leach dangerous amounts of lead into drinking water.
Watch for Trouble Signs
If the house is over 60 years of age, the homeowner should inspect exposed pipes at least once per year. Where irregularities such as dimpling, flaking, and stains are found, the homeowner should hire a plumber for a thorough inspection. Even a small leak can indicate that it’s time to replace the pipes in a house. After all, they’re all the same age, composed of the same materials, and have faced the same usage patterns.
Ultimately, the homeowner should rely on a plumber to advise them whether it’s time to replace a home’s pipes. Though it’s good to get a second opinion before embarking on such a complex project, a plumber in Renton can work with the homeowner to mitigate the expense and hassle associated with the job of replacing a home’s pipes.
