Most plumbing pipes last for decades, so for those who have relatively new houses won’t have to worry about this issue. However, if you have an older house, then you will have to check for signs of wear and tear. The plumbing system might be due for an overhaul soon. Homeowners need not worry about the cost. The project can focus on affected sections while leaving the rest intact to reduce expenses. Often, the help of experienced plumbers can delay the need for replacement. In this article, we discuss a plumbing pipe lifespan and the best way to preserve your pipes.
Tops Reasons Homeowners Should Opt For A For Pipe Replacement
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1. Corrosion Of Copper, Brass, Cast Iron, And Galvanized Steel Plumbing Pipes
A lot of the older plumbing systems used metal pipes, including copper, brass, cast iron, and galvanized steel. The logic was that metal is sturdy and therefore fit for the job. Indeed, they can last a long while, but they usually succumb to corrosion after a few decades. The walls weaken such that holes and cracks can develop from within. Water will leak, and the problem can only get worse. Rust and other impurities will also make the water dangerous to drink.
2. Plumbing Pipe Damage
Sometimes the damage comes from the outside. For example, tree roots can wrap around pipes and crush them over time. The roots can also puncture their way into the pipes and cause clogs and sewer backups. There are cases wherein the soil collapses underneath the pipes such that the lack of support causes them to bend in the middle. Anything that reduces the structural integrity of the pipe is bad news.
3. Toxins In Lead Piping
Prior to the 1980s, the harmful effects of lead was not yet established. It was a common component in plumbing pipes, and many of them are still in use today. If you are concerned about the health of your family, then replacing these should be a priority. Ask a plumber to check the nature of the home’s plumbing system and get recommendations.
How to Prolong The Life Of Your Plumbing Pipes
1. Monitor Water Pressure
If you have a system that still works smoothly, then help it stay that way by keeping the water pressure at tolerable levels. Experts recommend a PSI that is under 85 to ease pressure on pipe walls and prevent it from wearing out too quickly.
2. Avoid Chemical Cleaners
It is tempting to use chemical cleaners when you experience clogs. After all, they promise a quick and easy solution to an annoying problem. They can be effective in dissolving the material that is blocking the flow of water. However, they will also dissolve the walls of the pipes in the process. If you use them frequently, then you might be facing leaks later on.
3. Fix Leaks Right Away
Leaks are all too common. You should try to fix them right away when they appear. Otherwise, the holes and cracks will only grow larger, and the leaks will be worse. You will end up paying exponentially large water bills because of the amount of water wasted. It is better to repair a water leak than to pay continuously for water that you can’t even use.
4. Call For Periodic Cleaning
Clogs along the system reduce the flow of water while increasing the pressure on the walls. These will trigger leaks and other headaches later on. Knowing this, you should consider calling a professional plumber to perform periodic cleaning. At the very least, have them come over whenever you notice slow drains as these are sure signs of an underlying issue.
The video below shares some tips on how to keep your drains clean. However, a professional plumber has the necessary tools to complete the task more effectively.
Call Robinson Plumbing For All OF Your Home Plumbing Needs
Take care of your pipes, and they will take care of you. Keep them in good shape and repair or replace them when it’s time to do so.
When you need reliable plumbing services, be sure to call Robinson Plumbing. We offer plumbing pipe replacements, plumbing fixture upgrades, rooter services, water leak repairs, and much more.
Our licensed and experienced plumbers know how to diagnose any issues that you may be experiencing properly. Furthermore, they can offer you a wide range of solutions when possible so that you can select the option that works best for you.
Get your home back in working order by using our affordable and highly professional services. Call Robinson Plumbing now to schedule a free, in-home estimate.
Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or contact us for any questions that you might have!