Many people buy older homes for their charm and history. Peeling wallpaper and outdated moldings are easy to replace or fix, but replacing old plumbing fixtures is usually a more challenging undertaking that requires the expertise of a plumber. Here's a rundown of plumbing problems unique to older homes.

3 Common Plumbing Problems in Older Homes

1. Outdated Pipe Materials

Houses constructed before the 1990s used galvanized, lead, or polybutylene pipes. These are no longer accepted in today's building codes and will need to be replaced. Galvanized pipes were commonly used before the 60s and are susceptible to corrosion while lead pipes were found to be toxic. Meanwhile, polybutylene pipes are no longer manufactured because they're brittle and crack easily.

2. Old & Failing Plumbing Fixtures

All your plumbing fixtures and supply lines will eventually fail due to age and deterioration from regular use. As such, it’s not uncommon to find rusty or corroded metal pipes in older homes, which often leak or restrict water flow. Old knobs and faucets are also more prone to leaks. Even if the fixtures in an old house are still working, it’s best to have a plumber check if they are nearing the end of their life span and replace them before they cause problems. 

3. Creation of Pipe Bellies

Houses move and shift slowly over time, affecting the pipelines installed underground. Pipes that have gone from being straight to dipping downward can create a “belly.” This is a negative slope or sagging part of the pipe that builds up sediment or waste matter. If left unaddressed, bellies can cause wastewater to back up into your home, which can lead to unsanitary living conditions and expensive home repairs.

 

If you own an older home, it’s crucial that you hire a plumber to check common problems that can affect your plumbing system. The experts at A+ Family Plumbing of Onalaska, WI, know which issues to look for and how to fix them. You can also contact them to for new construction plumbing installation, sewer or drain cleaning, and water heater repair among other services. Check out their website or call (608) 783-5558 to talk to a plumber.