How Long Will My Pipes Last?
Unless you just recently had your home built, there’s a good chance that one question on your mind is how long will the pipes in my house last. Here is some information on how long different types of lines will typically last, along with signs that it may be time for you to invest in new pipes for your home.
Longevity of Pipe Material
Depending on the type of material the pipes in your home are made out of, you could still have years of life left in them. Considering that pipes are running all throughout your home, it makes sense that they are built out of materials made to last a long time.
Cast iron, copper, and steel are common materials that your pipes may be made out of in your home. These metallic pipes typically last on average 70 to 100 years, depending on the exact material. Cast iron pipes can last 80 to 100 years, but they can start to rust. Copper pipes are known to have a lot of benefits, but they may only last about 70 to 80 years before they need to be replaced. Steel pipes are similar to cast iron in that they can last up to 100 years but can rust, causing your water quality to decline. PVC pipes are another common pipe material, and these pipes can last 24 to 45 years on average.
If you live in an older home, keep in mind that there is a possibility that you could still have lead pipes. In most older houses, the lead pipes were removed and replaced, but some homes may have been missed with this removal process. It can be a great idea to have your water tested to ensure that no lead pipes remain in your house. Even small amounts of lead in your home’s water can poison the people that drink it.
Signs Your Pipes Need to be Replaced
You may notice that your exposed pipes look old. You may notice discoloration, rust, flakes, lumps, dimpling, or other signs that something is not right with the old lines in your home.
Another sign that your pipes may need to be replaced is your water quality. If you notice that your water is discolored or has a funny smell, it could be that there is rust or other unwanted materials inside your pipes.
You may also notice low water pressure. Your pipes may have started leaking, causing your water pressure to drop.
If you spot any of these signs in your home, it’s a good idea to have your local plumber come and check on your pipes. Of course, it could be something else causing your issue, but you don’t want to let these signs get worse over time where you’re looking at big repair bigs rather than just having your items replaced.
Do you think that it may be time for you to have your pipes replaced? Speaking to the professionals at Jolly Plumbing is a significant first step. We’ll help evaluate your current pipe situation and help you develop the best plan of action for dealing with your pipes. In addition, preventative maintenance on your lines can help prevent problems down the road with your pipes.