The plumbing in your home can last for decades, but there will come a time when it needs to be replaced. The type of plumbing you have and the age of your pipes will determine how often your home will need to repiped, but there are other factors to consider. For example, if you have frequent plumbing issues such as leaks or discolored water, you should consider having your home repiped even if your pipes are relatively new. You may also need to have your home repiped more often if you have hard water. Hard water can corrode pipes and leave mineral deposits that are nearly impossible to remove. If the deposits get large enough, replacing the pipes is sometimes the only option.
Like everything else having to do with your home, deciding when to repipe will depend on your unique situation. Still, there are some guidelines that you can follow if you’re not sure whether or not you need new plumbing. Let’s take a look at some of them now.
The Age of Your Pipes
The age of your plumbing is the biggest indicator of when you should repipe your home. Galvanized steel pipes have the shortest lifespan of common plumbing materials, but they can still be expected to last between 20 and 50 years. Copper pipes usually last for over 50 years, while brass pipes can keep working properly for over 70 years. Cast iron pipes are probably the most durable metal pipes available and can last for 75 to 100 years. Finally, plastic plumbing such as PVC and PEX can last indefinitely as long as they are properly maintained. This is why most modern homes rely on plastic as opposed to metal pipes.
Frequent Plumbing Problems
Regardless of the age of your pipes, you should be on the lookout for frequent plumbing problems. Issues such as clogged drains and the occasional leak happen in just about every home once in a while, but frequent problems could be a sign that you need new pipes. Look for issues such as low water pressure, sudden changes in water temperature, and anything that could indicate a leak such as puddles near exposed pipes or signs of water damage in your walls.
You should also take a look at the water that comes out of your faucets. Not only is rusty or discolored water unappealing, but it can represent a serious health hazard. If it’s just your home that has discolored water, that discoloration is likely due to corrosion in your pipes, which should be replaced as soon as possible.
If you think that your pipes are reaching the end of their lifespan, contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Gainesville to ask us about repiping your home. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have and ensure that your plumbing is safe for your home.