Hidden Plumbing Problems: What to Look for

Three Kinds Of Pipes You May Want To Replace Sooner Rather Than Later

18 October 2019

Herbert Chambers

Generally, you do not need to replace pipes until they start leaking. This is true when it comes to both copper and PVC pipes — the two most common types used in homes today. However, if you live in an older home, it is important to take a look at the pipes. If they are made from any of these three materials, you might want to have them replaced sooner rather than later, even if you have not yet noticed any leaks.

Galvanized Pipes

Up until the 1960s, it was pretty common for plumbers to place galvanized steel pipes in homes. Galvanized steel is coated in a zinc compound to keep it from rusting. This material was heavily favored because it was really sturdy and rust-proof. However, it's not as rust-proof as the plumbers of old hoped. As it turns out, the zinc coating does wear off the steel eventually, and once that happens, the steel starts to rust. Once pipes start rusting, they can spontaneously spring a leak at any point.

If your home has galvanized pipes, then they are certainly old enough to be rusting by this point. Rather than waiting for one to rust through and burst, you should think about having a plumber re-pipe the whole home with copper or PVC pipes.

Polybutylene Pipes

In the 1980s, people got really excited about using plastic for everything, and plumbers were no exception. One of the first plastics they used was called polybutylene. They thought it would be durable and easy to install. Unfortunately, this is not really the case. Poly pipes have been known to burst spontaneously. So the pipes may appear to be fine, but one day, you might come home to a flooded home! Poly pipes are generally blue in color. If you have any blue plastic pipes in your home, have a plumber come take a look and determine whether they really are polybutylene.

Lead Pipes

Lead pipes are not safe, because they can release some of their lead into the water. Drinking water that has been contaminated with lead can lead to brain damage, along with other ailments like loss of appetite and irritability. Most lead pipes in homes have already been replaced because of these dangers, but some homes may have been overlooked. If your pipes are a bluish-purple metal, they could be made from lead — and you should certainly have a plumber take a look.

Contact a plumbing services professional in your area today to learn more about what services they can provide for you.

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