It would be nice if plumbing pipes lasted forever, right? Unfortunately, regardless of the type of piping underneath your home, they will eventually need to be replaced. But how long do you have until it’s time?
Everyone has different plumbing, and how long it lasts is influenced by the type of piping you have.
Many different piping materials exist, and each has a different lifespan. Knowing the type of material your pipes are constructed from will help you determine when you should call a plumber in Tujunga for pipe replacement services.
This article will explain everything you need to know about common piping materials and how long you can expect them to last.
Types of Pipes in Your Tujunga Home
Every home has two different categories of pipes serving a specific function: supply pipes and drain lines.
Supply pipes deliver water to the designated areas of your house. These pipes use pressure to move water around, meaning they experience tremendous amounts of stress. Typically, supply pipes are brass, copper, or galvanized steel.
Drain lines are separate from the supply pipes because they remove water from your home. Your clean and dirty water would travel through the same lines if they shared a system! Rather than pressure, drain lines use gravity to move water from the house. Typically they are cast iron or PVC.
The Lifespan of a Supply Pipe
Copper piping has an expected lifespan of around 50 years. But this depends on the chemical breakdown of the water moving through it. Over time, hard water will cause copper pipes to form pinhole leaks and rust.
Brass can endure between 40 to 70 years because it’s a little heavier than copper. However, it contains trace amounts of copper, making it susceptible to rust.
If you have galvanized steel pipes, you can expect a lifespan of 50 years. However, sometimes this is shortened to 20 years. The longevity of steel pipes is influenced by the amount of zinc on the inside. If this layer wears down, the steel becomes exposed to water. Once the pipes rust, the quality of your water will be compromised.
The Lifespan of a Drain Pipe
PVC and cast iron are durable materials. Cast iron was used primarily before the 1960s and can last between 75 and 100 years. It’s likely you won’t need to replace the pipes in your Tujunga home. This is especially true if your home has been recently built.
During the 1960s, PVC became the alternative solution to cast iron pipes. It was a cheaper material with a longer lifespan. Many experts believe that PVC pipes may never need replacing!
However, since it is still a new material, there isn’t enough data to show that PVC can survive beyond 60 years. Someday soon we may have that answer.
The good thing about drain lines is that you may not need to replace them even if they rust. Their primary job is to carry away the dirty water. These pipes only become a problem if they develop a leak.
How Do I Know It’s Time for Pipe Replacement Services?
One way to determine the expected lifespan of your plumbing system is to know when the pipes were installed and what type they are. If you’re unsure, you can call a plumber in Tujunga to inspect your plumbing and determine what materials are running through your home.
But there are also some signs to watch out for. These issues mean it’s time to get your pipes replaced:
- Discolored water (indicates there is rust and possibly mold lurking in your pipes)
- Low water pressure
- Unexpected wet spots on the floor, wall, or ceiling
- Slow drainage
Slow drainage could be caused by a clog, but hiring a professional plumber to complete an inspection is the only way to know.
Your Home Still Has Lead Pipes
Lead was used for water pipes by ancient civilizations for thousands of years. They chose this material because it can resist the formation of pinhole leaks but remain soft enough to be shaped for efficient water delivery.
But we have now learned that lead poses a danger to your health.
Although lead pipes are durable and can last up to 100 years, steps have been taken to eliminate them. Unfortunately, many communities throughout the United States are still connected to lead pipes.
Don’t Forget About Plumbing Fixtures
As you think about replacing your underground pipes, don’t neglect other plumbing fixtures in your home. Pipe joints, fittings, and other mechanical components can also affect the lifespan of your entire plumbing system. If you notice any plumbing leaks, cracks, or corrosion, it’s best to assume you’re going to need a few replacements.
Professional Pipe Replacement Services in Tujunga
If you live in the Tujunga area and your home is over 60 years old, it’s best to start thinking about replacing your pipes. There may be internal damage that is creating poor water quality, and you want to keep your family safe. Call Make It Drain Plumbing & Rooter when you need a professional plumber in Tujunga. Call today to schedule your pipe replacement!
If you know that your home still uses these hazardous lines, call a plumber in Tujunga for pipe replacement services right away. They make your drinking water toxic and will make you sick.
