If you live in an aging home, there will come a time when the different parts and systems start breaking down. This can be due to normal wear and tear or perhaps constant exposure to the elements of nature. The same holds true for your plumbing. Over time, your plumbing system is bound to corrode or weaken, simply because you use it constantly. Hence, at times you need to start looking for signs that you need plumbing pipe installation or replacement. Here are 5 signs you might need to replace your plumbing:
1. Your Pipes Are Old
Generally, depending on the material your pipes are made from, they can last for up to 100 years, even with regular usage. Hence, the first step to determine if you need professional plumbing pipe installation or replacement is checking the material your pipes are made from. Typically, supply pipes are more likely to suffer damage as compared to drain lines. If this seems like too much work, just figure out the age of your pipes and you will get a better idea. Consulting a professional plumber is not a bad idea.
2. Your Pipes Are Made from Lead or Polybutylene
In case the pipes in your home are made from polybutylene or lead, you need to invest in professional plumbing pipe installation and replacement. This is because these materials are known to contaminate the water flowing to your taps. This is particularly true in case the pipes are made from lead. Polybutylene pipes are vulnerable to breaking because of their weak construction and have been virtually out of commission since the 1990s. So, if your pipes are made from lead or polybutylene, you need to have them replaced.
3. You Have Leaky Pipes
Even a minor leak can signal a major problem with your pipes down the line. Generally, the reason why a pipe starts leaking is because of age and wear and tear. Hence, if any one of the pipes starts leaking, it’s only a matter of time before the other pipes start leaking as well. So, if you spot any leaky pipes around your home, you should consider investing in professional plumbing pipe installation and replacement.
4. You Can See Filthy Water
If the water from your pipes is brown or yellow, there is a chance that the pipes are corroding or rusting. In case the pipes are rusting, you might have filthy water coming out from the taps or shower. In this situation, you need to invest in new pipes.
5. You Can Spot Corrosion
In some cases, you can spot corrosion on the pipes. For this, you have to head to an area of your home where there are exposed pipes. For instance, you can go down to the basement and check if the pipes are discolored or stained. If they are, you should call in a plumber right away.
These are 5 signs you can look out for to determine if you need professional plumbing pipe installation or replacement.