The plumbing throughout your home is put to work whenever someone operates a fixture or water-based appliance. While pipes made of galvanized steel function for around 50 years, there are some signs the ones in your home require pipe replacement. To help you keep your property safe from water damage, here’s all you need to know about replacing your piping. 

How to Know When You Need Pipe Replacement

1. You Notice Visible Corrosion

Look for corrosion on exposed pipes in your basement or garage. Check for flaking and dents, or bluish-green tinting if your pipes are made of copper. Also look for rust-colored, powdery markings and any other discoloration. These are signs of corrosion, and it may spread to other areas of your plumbing if you don’t have pipe replacement. Rust weakens metal, making leaks much more likely.

2. There’s Low Water Pressure

Call your local drain professionals if you keep experiencing low water pressure. While this may indicate clogs or scale buildup in plumbing fixtures, it may also mean your pipes are leaking and need attention. If broken pipes aren’t replaced, water will saturate the soil underground and won’t effectively reach your bathroom sink, shower, and toilet, reducing pressure. 

3. The Water Looks Rusty

Avoid drinking water that looks rust-colored. While rust is not harmful to the body, it creates an unpleasant metallic taste and odor. It also contributes to hardwater, leading to problems like dry skin, flat hair, and cloudy dishware. If your water is rusty, your pipes may have corroded due to age or damage.

4. Your Home Is Over 40 Years Old

Your home’s age may warrant pipe replacement. If it was built over 40 years ago, it may include lead pipes, since these were the standard in the past. These materials could lead to poisoning if enough of the heavy metal builds up in the body. Symptoms of lead poisoning include fatigue, hearing loss, stomach cramps, headaches, and muscle pain.
 

Rely on the drain professionals at Holmes Sewer & Drain for efficient pipe replacement services. Based in Lincoln, NE, this residential and commercial plumbing business has served the region for over 30 years. They offer a wide range of plumbing and drain services, including backflow prevention and sewer cleaning. Call (402) 432-6312 today to make an appointment or visit them online for more about their work.