Like all things in your home, your pipes will eventually succumb to daily wear and tear, and will need a repair or replacement. However, without viewing them, it can be difficult to tell when it’s the right time to replace your pipes, or why you need to in the first place.
That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you know when it’s time to replace your old plumbing pipes before an accident occurs.
Why Old Pipes Wear Out
Nothing is meant to last forever, and your pipes are no exception. The average lifespan for your pipes ranges from 25 to 100 years, depending on the material. However, daily wear and tear can reduce their longevity, which means you’ll need a repair soon.
Some of the most common reasons for old pipes wearing out are age, heavy storms, and clogs, all of which can lead to irreparable damage that ultimately requires a full replacement to remedy.
How They Wear Out
However, while all pipes eventually wear out, they can do so in different ways. This means that while some areas require full replacements, it is possible that the damage can be minor enough that a repair will suffice as a short-term alternative.
With aging pipes, the entire system may begin to break down over time. You’ll notice a variety of issues occurring in different areas of your home, from your kitchen to your bathroom. In this case, it is often more cost and time-efficient to complete a full replacement so that you may prevent any other issues from occurring.
However, if you’re noticing wear and tear from external sources, such as clogs or heavy rains, then a simple repair will often do the trick. This is because this type of damage is often centralized to a single area that can be repaired or even replaced, while the rest of your plumbing is unaffected.
Signs it’s Time to Replace Your Pipes
One of the first signs that it’s time to replace your old plumbing pipes is if you notice a decrease in water pressure. Waning water pressure is one of the earliest indications of failing pipes and is caused by rust clogs, a poor water heater, or even leaky pipes.
Leaks are another signal that it may be time to hire a professional to replace your pipes. Leaks are caused when the pipes begin to break down and form gaps. While you may not notice the leaks themselves unless you’re looking for an issue, you might see an increase in your utility bill or water damage in and around your home.
You may also notice discolored water. This comes as a result of rust, which is a common problem with older pipes. Water that has been affected by rust is often a muddy color.
Lastly, another one of the most common signs that it’s time to replace your old pipes is clogged drains. As pipes age, they can develop rust or accumulate debris, which can affect your drain’s ability to drain water.
While these are the most common signs, there aren’t the only ones. If you’re concerned that your old pipes might be on their last leg, then it’s best to reach out to a professional to discuss possible repairs and replacements.
Replace Your Old Pipes Today
When it comes to repairing and replacing your pipes, you’ll want to research and contact a professional in order to prevent any accidents, which can lead to bigger problems such as accidental flooding.
Here at Miles Plumbing, our team of pipe cleaners is trained and prepared to offer you a variety of plumbing services, including replacements. To learn more about the plumbing services we offer or to receive an estimate for your pipe replacement or repair, call us at 250-361-4488 or contact us today through our website.
