Residential Plumbing: Should You Start Planning for Pipe Replacement?
Plumbing pipes are built to provide long-term service in the home. However, their ability to perform will decline as the piping system ages. Also, the network can sustain damage due to accidental impact and stress or exposure to adverse operating conditions. As your pipe deteriorates, your home will become vulnerable to problems such as water damage and mould growth. If you would like to avoid these problems, it is important to continually inspect and review the performance of your plumbing system and replace components as necessary. Here are the main signs that you should replace your residential water pipes.
Recurrent Leaks
If you have been dealing with frequent leaks in your home, you should consider replacing your plumbing pipes. Typically, leakage indicates the damage and deterioration of the piping network. In some cases, the drips are localised, especially if a pipe suffered some mechanical impact. However, if the problems are widespread, the entire system might be in bad condition. You should hire a local plumber to assess the status of your piping and for repair or replacement recommendations. Sometimes, water can seep from small perforations in the pipes which are barely noticeable. You should take note of mould and mildew in your home because they thrive in humid environments. Ask your plumber to examine the piping in the area for water trickles.
Piping Corrosion
If your home has metallic plumbing pipes, you should review the system for corrosion. In general, when metal pipes become corroded, they lose their structural strength. Moreover, the corrosion compounds will join the supply, compromising the water quality. Ideally, you should check the pipe tubing for flaking and dimpling on the surface. This issue indicates extensive corrosion of the tube walls. You will need to plan for the replacement of the entire network of affected pipes. Also, you should take note of unusual colours in the water from your outlets. For instance, rusted pipes will turn the water into a brownish colour. This change could mean that your pipes are compromised.
Old Piping
If you are living in an old home, you should have the condition of your piping inspected. Plumbing pipes are constructed to last a long time after installation, but they are not everlasting. They will deteriorate over time due to standard daily usage, and eventually, they will fail. Performing an assessment will help you know the projected timeline before failure, allowing you to plan for replacement. You should also have the plumber examine your plumbing system for hazardous materials and substandard piping.
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