Older homes often have historical value, significance and many memories attached to them. But living in them can be quite challenging. Usually, these homes have outdated fixtures and devices that often cause issues even if you maintain them regularly. This is especially so for the plumbing system.
What’s the solution? Get the fixtures replaced. Yes, there will be upfront costs, but at least you wouldn’t have to call upon plumbers in Connecticut. In the long run, you would end up saving money.
Let’s quickly go through some common plumbing problems in older homes. If you face any of these, seek advice from reputed plumbers on whether you should get the devices repaired or replaced.
Galvanized Pipes
Older homes may have galvanized steel and cast iron pipes. These materials are now obsolete, implying that the entire plumbing network would have to be replaced.
Galvanized pipes corrode quickly, discoloring water. Corrosion eats away the pipe and may sometimes drill minute holes, leading to leakages and lower water pressure in the water supply network. While these pipes have already been coated with molten zinc to prevent corrosion, they are no longer effective because even zinc erodes, exposing the iron beneath. Consequently, the pipes weaken and may completely fail.
Here are some common pipe materials that you can use instead.
PEX
PEX or Cross Linked Polyethylene is the choice for plumbing pipes these days. Contact reputed plumbers in Connecticut, and they’ll quickly replace your entire plumbing network.
PEX pipes may be a bit expensive than other alternatives, but the fact that they don’t require any maintenance makes them a great choice. Plus, they can be installed quickly. However, PEX pipes cannot be used outdoors because UV rays can damage the plastic.
Copper
Copper pipes are reliable, durable and resistant to corrosion. But copper must be soldered together, which requires additional fittings.
PVC Pipes
PVC pipes are light and easy to work with. They are often glued together, which may lead to leakages.
Pipe Bellies
Soil around your pipes may rise and fall, affecting the plumbing network. Pipes may bow and buckle forming a kind of belly that affects water flow through the time. The water will drain slower because of the pipe belly until the line completely clogs.
Pipe channeling is another similar issue. Hard water settles down in the pipe surface, creating its own channel. This weakens the structure, leading to potential damages.
Polybutylene Pipe
Polybutylene pipes were common in the 70s to 90s decades because they were affordable and quick to install. However, as time passes, these pipes break down due to the dissolved solids in water, causing a number of plumbing problems, including leaks and low water pressure.
Sewer Lines
Sewer lines transport your home’s waste to the sewer main through which it reaches the municipal’s treatment plant. These lines are always wet, compelling tree roots to grow towards them. This can cause old pipes to crack, allowing the roots to grow into them, clogging the line.
A regular inspection of your plumbing system can prevent this from happening. Professional plumbers examine all underground pipes through cameras and advanced tools to detect bellies, channeling, tree roots and other issues.
Drains
Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing problems in older homes . While any pipe can block and restrict water flow, this issue generally occurs with bathroom, kitchen and toilet drains, causing inconvenience. However, clogs can be avoided by numerous ways including the following.
- Don’t flush anything in your toilet other than the paper.
- Soap and hair may often collect in drain stoppers in the bathroom. Clean them regularly.
- Use a drain strainer for your kitchen sink so that no particles can go inside the drain.
- Considering your kitchen sink, pouring hot water down the drain once or twice a week can melt and remove grease that may have collected in the walls of the pipe.
- Don’t dispose of paint thinner, paint or other chemical solutions down the drain.
Avoid using drain cleaners because they contain chemicals and can damage the internal walls of the plumbing pipes. Moreover, the chemicals may deposit and buildup, clogging the line.
Original Fixtures
Original fixtures are of better quality and sturdier than their counterparts, but as good as they may be, these fixtures do have a life. Once that passes, you should replace them because they are completely worn out. Many homeowners believe these fixtures to offer some kind of value because that is usually not the case. So do consider replacement.
The toilet shutoff valve is often the most problematic. This valve is located where the pipe connects the fixture to the tank, and may get stuck in the same place. Any attempt to close the valve may cause a leak. Only a trained plumber can resolve the issue then. Rather than waiting for the problem to occur, get the valve replaced beforehand if your fixtures are old.
While there are many types of piping materials available, the following are a better choice.
So Should You Replace Your Pipes to Prevent Common Plumbing Problems in Older Homes?
Talk to reputed plumbers in Connecticut who will examine your plumbing system and give you advice to either repair or replace your older pipes. Here are some quick tips that can also help you come to a decision.
- If you’re calling a plumber every now and then and getting an issue resolved every few days, you may be better off with a replacement.
- If the water running out of your tap is discolored and appears dirty, then your pipes may have rusted or your water heater might be facing an issue.
- If your water pressure is constantly low, it is probably because of a leak that you haven’t detected yet.
How old are the pipes in your home? Let the A-Team Plumbing and Drain team evaluate their condition, and accordingly, help you choose between a repair and a replacement.