Is your pipe giving you the signs that your home may need a whole house repiping? At one time or another, every new home had state-of-the-art plumbing. From the ’30s and even into the ’60s, galvanized pipes were the go-to piping for home builders. However, it wasn’t until copper became popular in the ’50s and ’60s that’s when homeowners started to replace old pipes with the new copper tubing pipes. It didn’t take long for plumbing companies to enjoy the benefits of copper piping. It’s flexible, formable, lightweight, easy to transport, easy to join seams, long-lasting, and 100% recyclable.
Then, in the ’90s, cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) was ushered in, and the rest is history. PEX has become the go-to piping for the 21st Century for many of the same reasons cooper was. For example, the tubing is more flexible than copper, lighter than copper, easier to connect the seams, costs less, and has the same life expectancy. The only drawback is you cannot recycle it.
Don’t Gamble With Your Pipes Leaking
Many first-time homebuyers may have purchased an old home here in California because it was the affordable way to purchase. You may have had a full inspection, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have its setbacks. The pipes may work fine on the outside, but they may have their fair share of corrosion on the inside. A house built in the ’60s is pushing 60 years old. Galvanized pipes can have a 20 to 50-year lifespan, while copper has a 50 year plus lifespan. Not replacing our old pipes is like driving on bald tires – you just hope one doesn’t pop. If a pipe breaks or leaks, the repair cost, if severe enough, could run into the thousands. When you need a whole house repiping, Big B’s Plumbing has you covered.
Knowing The Signs That Your Pipes Need Replacing
Water That Is Discolored
Whenever someone turns on the faucet for a cup of water, wash dishes, or bath, you can expect the water to be clear. At times, when the city is performing maintenance on the city’s water lines, the water from your faucet could be somewhat discolored for a short time. This minor and rare discoloration of water should not cause for alarm.
However, if your water is continually red, yellow, brown, or orange in color, it is time to replace your pipes. Rusted and corroded pipes cause this discoloring. When the pipes worsen, rusted metal fragments chip off and enter the water supply, discoloring the water. The more worn out your pipes are, the greater your risk of leaks or a burst pipe—and the more expensive the repairs.
Visibly Corroded Pipes
Because most of the piping in your home is concealed beneath the slab or between the walls, you will rarely notice leaking damage pipes until the water gets revealed. However, suppose your home has exposed piping, such as noticeable pipes in the basement. In that case, you could more easily identify corrosion and other pipe issues such as flaking, stained pipes, and dimpling.
Pipes that have matured
Copper pipes will last 40-70 years. Galvanized steel has a life expectancy of 20-60, but much is based on the quality of materials. Cast iron pipe is durable, lasting 75-100 years, and PVC will last 100 years or more. Take note that the life expectancies stated in this article may vary if the pipes are subjected to high water pressure or contain high concentrations of hard water deposits.
If your pipes have exceeded their expected lifespan, you should consider replacing them asap. If you’re unsure when your pipes were installed, then have them inspected by a professional.
Frequently Occurring Leaks
Leaks are probably the most prevalent plumbing problem that many property owners encounter when their pipes begin to fail. Suppose you’re encountering pipe leaks, have an overall pipe inspection by a plumbing expert. A small leak can occasionally be easily repaired and doesn’t always mean your pipes need replacing. However, an occasional leak may merely be the symptoms of a larger problem occurring within your plumbing system.
Low water pressure
Low water pressure is another sign that your pipes may need replacing, especially if you live in an area that’s known for hard water. Hard water mineral deposits are known to attach themselves to the lining of your pipe walls, and over many years they restrict causing low water pressure. This is a perfect case where you’ll need a whole-house repiping.
Big B’s Plumbing Whole House Repiping Service
If your plumbing is older than 40 years old, get it inspected by a professional. If it’s time to a whole-house repiping, then trust the experts from Big B’s Plumbing. We’ve been repiping homes in the Inland Empire, Riverside County, and San Diego for over a decade. Our work is not only science but art also. At Big B’s Plumbing, we offer 100% financing for one year interest-free. Call today and get the service and value you desire.
