Plumbing problems happen. Most pipes will eventually break down and need to be repaired or replaced over time. The materials that most older pipes are made from are more susceptible to wear down and corrosion caused by water running through them. Re-piping can entail anything from replacing a section of pipe to replacing all the existing water lines in your home (from the main shutoff valve forward) with piping that is clean, safe, and ultra-durable.
Signs that It’s Time to Re-pipe
An experienced Lake Worth plumber will carefully assess your home’s needs and definitively explain your best re-piping options, but there are several signs that a re-pipe may be necessary:
- Your pipes leak frequently
The most telling sign that your pipes are wearing through is recurring leaks. The more frequent the leaks, the more likely that your home will need to be re-piped. Pipes that leak aren’t just inconvenient; they can also lead to significant property damage and mold and mildew issues that can cause health problems. Signs that your pipes may be leaking include low water pressure, water bills that are higher than normal, and any indication of mold or mildew (the telltale associated smell and/or visible signs).
- Your home is getting on in years
If your home is over 40 years old and still has its original pipes, there’s a likelihood that your pipes have begun to corrode. In general, brass pipes are expected to last the longest (about 40 to 70 years). After brass comes galvanized steel, cast iron, and copper (in descending order). PVC pipes, on the other hand, can last indefinitely.
- Your pipes are made of polybutylene
Polybutylene pipes are made from an inexpensive, flexible plastic that is no longer up to U.S. building codes. These pipes are prone to rupture and should probably be replaced sooner rather than later. If your exposed pipes are white plastic with the letter PB printed on them, they are polybutylene.
- Your pipes have visible signs of corrosion
If there are exposed pipes in your home that display any of the visible signs of corrosion – including rust-colored markings or powder, flaking, dimpling, any discoloration, or a bluish-greenish tint (on copper pipes), it’s time to get them checked by a skilled Lake Worth plumber.
- Your water has taken on a rust-colored tinge
If the water running through your faucets and/or water appliances looks like it’s rusty, your pipes are likely rusting. If the rust color only affects your hot water, your problem may stem from your water heater; consult with a plumbing professional.
Mineral Deposits
If you have hard water – water with a high occurrence of calcium and magnesium – your pipes can experience a serious mineral buildup over time. While hard water isn’t dangerous to your health, it can cause serious problems for your pipes and those appliances that are plumbed. If the problem is ongoing and the corrosion is extensive, it can lead to pinhole leaks in your pipes that may necessitate re-piping. Telltale signs of mineral deposits from hard water include greenish-yellow buildup around fixtures, including showerheads and faucets; laundry that fades too quickly; and dishes that come out of the dishwasher with water spots. A good water softener that’s professionally installed by an experienced Lake Worth plumber can rectify these problems, but if your pipes have already been damaged over the years, you might need more serious repairs, such as re-piping.
Consult with a Lake Worth Plumber about Re-piping Your Home
If your experienced Lake Worth plumber identifies that your home needs to be re-piped, he or she will walk you through the process so you know what to expect. A reputable professional plumbing company will ensure that you experience the least amount of inconvenience and that your home remains as clean and intact as possible throughout the process. A company that specializes in both plumbing and restoration is ideal for performing a top-quality job of this magnitude. Your family not only needs quality plumbing but also a home that’s restored to pre-repair condition.
If Your Home Requires Re-piping, Contact an Experienced Lake Worth Plumber Today
If you’re having significant problems with the pipes in your home, it’s time to contact Erica's Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Restoration. While most plumbing problems don’t require major repairs, pipes don’t last forever and, sometimes, they need to be replaced. Re-piping is a big job, but our master team is comprised of highly trained technicians and general contractors who will effectively and efficiently get your pipes replaced and your home back up and running smoothly. We’re here to help so please don’t hesitate to contact or call us at (561) 782-2779 today.
Erica's Plumbing, Air Conditioning & RestorationPhone: (561) 782-2779
