Is it Time to Replace My Old Galvanized Pipes?
What is Galvanized Pipe?
Galvanized pipes are steel pipes dipped in a protective zinc coating to prevent corrosion and rust. Galvanized piping was created to replace the old lead piping used for home water supply lines. Many homes built before the 1960s used galvanized steel pipes for indoor plumbing. Some galvanized plumbing was still being installed as late as the 1980s. In Houston, TX, we have found homes built in the 1990s with galvanized plumbing. Although galvanized steel was beneficial to replace lead pipes at the time, today, your plumbing problems may be linked to these pipes.
What is the life expectancy of galvanized piping?
Galvanized pipes can last up to 60 -70 years, put not always. Poor quality pipe or piping with poor galvanizing technique can fail in half the time, 30-40 years. If you are experiencing signs that your galvanized pipes are failing, it may be time to replace them.
Watch this video:
Home with galvanized plumbing on the market to sell. See what happens during the home inspection.
Video Courtesy of A-Action Home Inspection in Houston, TX.
What are the signs that your galvanized piping is failing (going bad)?
Early signs that your galvanized pipes are failing:
Decreased water pressure
Brown or rust-colored water from faucet
More advanced signs include:
Rust around your pipe joints and rust spots on your pipes
End stage signs that your galvanized signs have reached their life expectancy:
Ruptured pipes and pin-hole leaks
Whether your pipes are nearing the end of there life cycle or they have been pronounced you faced with a few decisions.
Replacing your old galvanized pipes
It’s time to replace those old water pipes. Now what? The best next step is to call an expert out to take a look at your plumbing. Most specialty companies will do this at no cost. The truth is, if your home still has galvanized water supply lines, it’s likely time to replace them. The experienced consultants at We Do Repipes Inc can help homeowners determine if you need to replace your pipes and help decide on the best options for your home and budget. Our team will leave you a no obligation quote for a whole house repipe. You can either call us to repipe or at least start planning and budgeting for your repipe. Call today to schedule a consultation at 832-819-8337.
What do I replace my galvanized pipe with?
Galvanized pipes are no longer used in homes. The 3 common types of pipes used to replace galvanized are PEX (Cross-linked polyethylene), PVC-CPVC (polyvinyl chloride or chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) or copper pipes. Each pipe type has its own set of pros and cons. Read more about what plumbing pipe types to use.
The experienced consultants at We Do Repipes Inc can help homeowners determine if you need to replace your pipes and help decide on the best options for your home and budget. Call us today to schedule a consultation at 832-819-8337.