How to Know When It Is Time to Replace Your Home’s Plumbing

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A home’s plumbing is not something that has to be replaced often. But, for every home, the time eventually comes. There is no hard and fast rule about when plumbing needs to be replaced because certain variables heavily influence the timing of plumbing replacement. While nobody wants to have to replace their home’s plumbing, the plumbing will usually start to show signs that it is time to do so. Unfortunately, unless you just built your home or installed plumbing in the last 5 – 10 years, your plumbing may be outdated or have hidden problems forming. And, the last thing you want is to delay a necessary plumbing replacement only to wind up with massive water damage to your home.

 

Your Pipe Material Matters!

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Not all home plumbing materials are created equal and, even within the same neighborhood, pipe materials used may vary. Certain pipe materials will last longer than other pipe materials.

Pipe Material Average Lifespan:

  • Cast Iron: 75 – 100 years

  • Galvanized Steel: 20 – 50 years

  • Copper: 50 – 75 years

  • Brass: 40 – 45 years

  • PVC: Indefinite

 

Signs Your Home’s Plumbing Needs to be Replaced

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Occasionally, the most obvious sign that your plumbing needs to be replaced is its age. Your plumbing’s age alone is not reason enough to replace your plumbing. If you know your home’s plumbing is decades old and probably not in tip top shape, you may want to consult a plumber to have it inspected and see if there are hidden problems looming that could lead to damage. More typically, if your home’s plumbing needs to be replaced, it will start to show you signs including:

  • Corrosion or discoloration of exposed (visible) pipes

  • Plumbing leaks anywhere in your home

  • Discoloration of the water running from your faucets anywhere in your home

  • Slow drains (particularly despite routine maintenance and cleaning)

  • Clogged pipes or drains (this may be the result of years – or decades – of use and debris buildup)

  • Bad smells or foul odors coming from your pipes (possibly a sign of stagnant water pooling somewhere)

  • Noisy or gurgling pipes which may be a sign of pipe obstructions

  • Running toilet which may indicate various plumbing problems

  • Low or poor water pressure which may be a sign that you have a clogged pipe

 

What to do if you Suspect Your Home’s Plumbing Needs to be Replaced

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If you suspect that you have a plumbing problem or that your plumbing may need to be replaced, the best thing to do is contact an experienced and trustworthy plumber as soon as possible. Trained plumbers, such as Edwards Plumbing, have not only the knowledge but also the tools and experience needed to assess your home’s plumbing or make recommendations regarding plumbing replacement. Further, an experienced plumber has a chance to assess your home’s plumbing needs, they will be able to make any necessary repairs or replacements to get your home back up and running!

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