Nothing is permanent, that includes the pipes inside your home. As time goes on, pipes gradually corrode, rust and decay. Eventually, you get leaks or worse a flood. This could potentially bring water and even raw sewage into your home or business causing thousands of dollars in damage.
Water Pipe Replacement
Replacing / repiping an entire home is a big job and unless you're planning a remodel you don't want to do it early. That's why Green Tech Plumbing is here to help you assess the situation and your available options. We'll work with you to develop a plan that matches your property's needs and your budget. Water repiping is a complicated job but we've got your back. Call Green Tech Plumbing to schedule a free estimate on your water pipe replacement project
How Long Do Pipes Last?
The type of plumbing installed on your property determines how long you can expect it to last. This information can be found by examing the pipes or by checking your home inspection report from the time of purchase.
Supply Pipes
These are the pipes bringing water into your home. They are under constant pressure and most likely to leak.
Brass Pipes - 80 to 100 years.
Copper Pipes - 70 to 80 years.
Galvanized steel - 80 to 100 years.
Lead and Polybutylene - Remove ASAP
Drain Pipes
Cast iron - 80 - 100 Years
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) - 25-40 Years
These are just guidelines. The actual time will vary by environmental conditions and maintenance schedules. For example, if your water has a high mineral content, your pipes are more likely to corrode. If your pipes are starting to age, call Green Tech Plumbing for a free plumbing inspection.
When To Repipe / Replace Lines?
Older Home - If your house is over 50 years old and using galvanized steel pipes. Or if your plumbing is a network of different materials and is using non-standard routing methods.
Leaks - If you're dealing with frequent leaks from multiple locations. As water pipes age the materials used to weld the joints can start to fail. Replacing the water supply pipes now could save you money on future repair costs.
Low Water Pressure - If the water pressure is continually dropping and is accompanied by reddish-brown water coming out of the tap. Sometimes the water may only be brown initially and then turn clear. This is a sign that the old pipes have accumulated minerals on the interior and reducing water flow.
Slab Or Pinhole Leaks - Pipes inside your foundation can leak and cause parts of your home to appear damp or wet. This typically occurs in older homes when the pipes in the foundation corrode and start to fail. They may not be noticeable at first but over time they can cause some serious damage.
Water Bill Going Up - If your water bill is going up without a good reason it may be your pipes. If you turn off the water to your home and the meter continues to run then you've got a leak in your water system.
