Why Replace My Galvanized Pipes?
Do you ever get tired of getting the same result over and over and over again? As with life, your plumbing can make you feel that way too.
If you have old galvanized or cast iron lines and constantly have back-ups/clogs, it’s time to replace them. It can be costly to do, but over time, it will save you money and keep you from having to call a plumber over and over again. Call us today for a FREE ESTIMATE at 843-314-4424.
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Why Replace My Galvanized Pipes?
Galvanized Pipes in Older Homes
In most homes that are over fifty years old, the plumbing system will include galvanized piping. In fact, many homes that are even newer than half a century can still have this type of piping.
Galvanized piping was created and placed in these homes because it was believed they would not rust. The steel of galvanized pipes are covered in a thin layer of zinc that is meant to protect them from corrosion. Unfortunately, that is not the case. They often corrode from the inside out, leaking decay into the home’s water. Over decades, this rust can continue to build up and corrode inside the pipes, causing blockages and leaks as well as issues with appliances and water contamination.
Galvanized pipes are much cheaper than copper or PVC to install. However, they are far less durable and have a great number of disadvantages. Some insurance companies will not even offer homeowner’s insurance to people with galvanized piping.
Are Your Pipes Clogged With Rust?
In most cases, galvanized piping in the home will last no more than 40 years. The flow of water through these pipes will eventually be completely blocked off due to rust and mineral deposit accumulation.
If you own an older home and have noticed the water pressure is gradually decreasing, you are likely to have galvanized piping. One telltale sign is red water. If you turn on a faucet where the water has not been used lately and red water initially flows out, then you know the pipes are rusted inside and need to be replaced.
Can I Replace Only the Effected Pipes?
Because galvanized pipes and others such as brass and copper are not compatible, it is advisable to replace all galvanized pipes in the home at the same time. In places where the copper pipes and the steel of the galvanized pipes meet, corrosion will occur much more quickly. Although some joining techniques claim to reduce this problem, it is still very common.
In the long run, it is much more cost efficient to remove all galvanized pipes from the home and replace them with more modern piping.
(Compliments of Pipe Gripes is written & published by Thompson Plumbing Heating & Cooling in Kentucky).