Are your plumbing pipes starting to cause you problems at home? Consider replacing the water pipes in your house.
Quality pipes usually last for decades; however, some plumbing pipes are faulty from the get-go. The longevity of your pipes also depends on several factors, like exposure to high water pressure, the repairs done, the type of material, and the weather.
If your pipes are relatively new, you may still have them repaired rather than replaced. However, if your plumbing is outdated and your pipes are starting to suffer from disrepair, you need to call for experts with the necessary skills and knowledge on how to change plumbing pipes.
Whether it’s leaking pipes, clogged drains, or discolored water, plumbing problems can develop into more severe concerns. To avoid the risk of structural damage, take note of these warning signs, and hire an expert plumber for immediate plumbing replacement.
1. Water Discoloration
Pipes are prone to rust and eventually cause water discoloration. Iron particles from rusted or corroded steel pipes cause water to appear yellow, brown, or red. As plumbing pipes deteriorate, their rusted pieces chip off and stain the water as it flows into your water supply. This explains why your tap, kitchen, or shower water may appear to be anything but clear. The color says a lot about what you’re dealing with, and it can be hazardous to your health.
If left unattended without the necessary plumbing replacements, these iron particles can clog your pipes and build up pressure, causing your pipes to burst. The catastrophic damage is far more costly than plumbing repairs and requires immediate attention.
2. Leaks
Leaks are common plumbing issues that several homeowners face. They are often caused by cracks or loose connections between your plumbing pipes. You can spot leaks by looking for dark discolorations near water fixtures, walls, ceilings, and floors. Only a little water comes out of your pipes at first; however, the leak can grow and flood your home with continued exposure to pressure.
If you find yourself fixing leaks often, this can be an indication of corroding pipes. A plumber can handle small leaks without needing to replace the lines, but they may recommend pipe replacement if basic repairs are no longer enough.
3. Low Water Pressure
Decreased water pressure can be an early warning sign of plumbing issues. Check your water heater first if you notice your faucets aren’t pumping out water like they used to. Suddenly low water pressure can sometimes result from a malfunctioning heater.
A slower change, on the other hand, might be a sign of leaks and cracks. Without immediate attention, these problems can cause unwanted water and property damage like mold.
Another cause of decreased water pressure is having aged facilities as rust gets clogged in old iron pipes. If the pressure weakens, schedule an inspection right away.
4. Unusual Pipe Noises
Strange noises inside your walls are clear indications of aging or compromised pipes. Red flag sounds are banging or creaking.
These usually occur due to irregularity in the water pressure or an old blockage in your plumbing system. Your pipes become increasingly unstable over time, so you need to have them consistently taken care of by a professional who knows how to change plumbing pipes efficiently.
5. Pipe Material
Several modern homes use copper, brass, or PVC pipes, while older buildings use lead, iron, and galvanized steel. Regardless of the pipes you use, every plumbing pipe has an age limit. With proper care, polyvinyl chloride (PCV) pipes can last for 24 to 45 years, while copper pipes last for 70 to 80 years. Brass, galvanized steel, and cast-iron pipes, on the other hand, last between 80 and 100 years. It’s important to note that a pipe’s longevity can be restricted with exposure to high water pressure and deposits.
In addition, lead pipes are still utilized in many parts of the country, but these plumbing pipes are considered dangerous. Lead is highly toxic and can stunt children’s growth with prolonged exposure. In adults, it can lead to kidney problems and reproductive issues. To know whether your pipe contains lead, conduct a test to reveal the amount of lead present in your plumbing pipes.
You can also look into inspection reports or hire a professional to inspect your pipes to identify the pipe’s age. If your lines are older than recommended, replace them as soon as possible.
If you notice any signs previously mentioned, don’t wait to call our licensed plumbers in Arvada, CO. At A Better Plumber, we conduct an in-depth inspection of your pipes before prescribing the best possible repair and plumbing replacement options. We also offer personal insurance coverage and a fair estimate of how much it’ll cost to replace your plumbing pipes with no additional overtime costs.
Have your plumbing pipes inspected and replaced right away. Contact us at (720) 579-8133 to set your next pipe replacement appointment with us today.
