There are a lot of big and important decisions that homeowners have to make from time to time, one of which is whether to install new piping. You might find yourself having to make this decision if you’re experiencing a lot of plumbing problems, like multiple leaks, tree root intrusions, or frequent clogs and backups. But adding new pipes isn’t always the best choice. Some plumbing problems benefit more from repairs rather than replacements. Letting a professional do a thorough inspection of your home can help you make the best choice. Here are nine questions to ask when trying to decide whether to install new pipes.
How Old Are the Existing Pipes?
Pipe materials have different lifespans. The normal lifespan of galvanized steel pipes is 20 to 50 years; however, the lifespan of copper pipes can exceed 70 years. Due to safety issues, it is imperative to replace polybutylene or lead pipes without delay. Putting off the replacement of older pipes could cause more serious and expensive issues down the road, like leaks, corrosion, and clogs.
Do the Pipes Keep Leaking?
While fixing a single leak shouldn’t be too difficult, a pattern of leaks could indicate systemic failure of the pipes in your home. If the problem stems from decaying pipes, patching individual leaks could become expensive since this remedy only provides a short-term solution. The long-term and most cost-effective approach may be to rebuild the piping system with new pipes.
Do the Pipes or Drains Keep Clogging?
Although clogs every now and then are par for the course, recurring clogs in different places may point to a more major issue, like a collapsed pipe, tree root infiltration, or excessive corrosion. Rust can cause the interior of your pipes to become uneven, which can lead to the accumulation of water contaminants, making the inside of the pipes narrower. Thinner pipes are more likely to clog or fracture. A professional plumber can check the pipes if you have persistent issues with clogged or slow drains to determine the source of the problem.
Is There a Decrease in Water Pressure?
Your home may experience low water pressure for a number of reasons, including blockages, leaks, or rust. Mineral deposit buildup in the pipes can reduce pressure too. A plumber will evaluate the extent of the low water pressure to determine whether to repair or replace the pipes. If they notice the low pressure stays in an isolated part of the house, a repair might make more sense. When the low pressure extends across multiple rooms or the whole home, upgrading with new pipes will likely be the better option.
Can You See Visible Corrosion or Rust?
The inside of the pipes is probably in much worse condition if you see rust-colored patches or obvious corrosion on the outside of the pipes. Corrosion like this, if not addressed, can cause your pipes to burst and flood your property. It can also diminish your home’s water quality. If you replace corroded pipes right away, you can stop these problems in their tracks.
Is the Water a Strange Color?
If your water has a brownish or yellowish color, it could be because of sediment or rust buildup inside your pipes. Pipes that are leaking or otherwise decaying could be to blame for this problem. Discoloration is unsightly and may be an indication that your water is not suitable to consume or use for washing or drinking. If the problem persists after cleansing the system, pipe replacement may be necessary to restore pure water.
Does the Water Have a Weird Smell?
A sulfur-like odor coming from the water can indicate bacterial growth in the pipes, while a metallic odor might point to rusting or corroding pipes. In addition to making the water taste bad, these odors suggest more serious problems that require fixing. A thorough inspection and perhaps pipe replacement is in order if you detect any lingering smells emanating from your water supply.
Will It Cost More to Repair or Replace?
It may become more economical to just replace the pipes instead of paying to fix them over and over again. Although the initial investment in pipe replacement may be larger, the reduced frequency of repairs and the elimination of water damage can more than make up for the difference.
Is There a Presence of Mold?
The presence of mold on surfaces such as walls, ceilings, or floors might signify a pipe leak. In addition to being a major health concern for you and your loved ones, mold is an unmistakable warning sign of water damage in your house. It is critical to find the source of the moisture if the mold keeps coming back even after cleaning. In many cases, a full pipe upgrade will be necessary to rectify the mold problem.
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing is here to help you decide whether your home needs new piping. Contact us now!