Did you know that water damage is one of the top insurance claims that homeowners file?
Accidents happen, but that doesn’t mean you’re defenseless. There are various ways to tell if you have leaky pipes that need replacement. However, new pipes are expensive, so it’s not something to jump into willy-nilly.
Are you wondering what things to consider? Keep reading to learn all about how to tell if it’s time for new pipes.
Reduced Water Pressure
If you’re noticing that your water pressure isn’t what it used to be, then that could be a sign of bad pipes. Pipes with leaks can not only reduce your water pressure, but they can cause mold and rot within your house’s woodwork.
However, low water pressure could indicate a clog, which is often a lot easier to deal with. To be sure of the exact problem, it’s important to hire plumbing and heating experts.
The Water Is Murky
Discolored water is another sign that it’s time to replace your pipes. When pipes become corroded, this can make the water appear brown or another dark color. This is the first step in a process that can lead to fully ruined pipes.
After corrosion, mineral deposits can cause clogging which, over time, could result in one or more pipes breaking. That’s why it’s crucial to nip the problem in the bud at the first sign of discolored water.
If They’re Too Old
Simply put, pipes don’t last forever. Depending on the material they’re made of and their age, it could be time for pipe replacement. You might be glad to know that cast iron lasts the longest, sometimes for as long as a century.
If your pipes are made of galvanized steel, copper, or brass, then you’ll be lucky if they last half as long as cast iron pipes. Some people don’t know what their pipes are made of. In that case, you can ask your plumber.
Toxic Materials
The last thing you’d want to do is expose yourself and your family to hazardous materials. Before we understood the toxicity of lead, pipes in homes used to be common and can still be found in older structures.
Whether you have lead pipes in your home or have a water source that gets exposed to lead at some point, you should replace plumbing to have peace of mind. Exposure to lead has been known to cause learning deficiencies in children and can even lead to kidney issues.
Are You Ready to Get New Pipes?
Now that you’ve learned about how to tell if it’s time for new pipes, you can make sure that your home is safe and sound. The sooner you give your pipes a checkup, the sooner you can avoid costly damage.
There are all kinds of ways you can upkeep and invest in real estate. After all, a house is one of the largest assets you can get in life. By bookmarking our site, you can stay in the loop.