No part or appliance in the plumbing world lasts forever, including your home’s pipes. The good news is that your plumbing pipe lifespan in Raleigh, NC can be very long. The bad news is that once those pipes get old, things can go downhill very quickly. Continue reading to learn more about the different types of pipes and their average lifespan:
- Supply pipes: Supply pipes are under constant pressure. This means when they start to fail or get old, they’re much more likely to burst and cause water damage. Fortunately, these pipes are typically made of brass, copper or galvanized steel. Brass pipes can last up to 70 years, while copper and steel pipes can last for up to 50 years.
- Drain lines: Drain lines don’t experience as much pressure as supply pipes, so the stakes are a little less high if they fail. These pipes are either made of cast iron, which can last for up to 100 years, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PVC pipes can last for years without failing, but breakage is common. If your home was built between the 1970s and 1990s—when PVC usage was at its peak—you should call a plumber to have your pipes inspected and potentially have the PVC replaced.
Benefits of replacing your pipes
Replacing your pipes may be something to consider, even if you don’t currently have PVC piping. Replacing your pipes often means better water pressure, reduced water bills and fewer plumbing issues. New piping in a house can be a selling feature for homebuyers, so if you’re selling soon, consider upgrading your pipes!
Signs your pipes are clogged
Even if you have all new piping, there’s a good chance that you’ll experience a clog at least once. Here are a few signs your pipe is clogged in Raleigh, NC:
- Change in water pressure: A dramatic drop in water pressure is never a good thing. It could indicate that a pipe is cracked or broken, or that there’s a massive clog inhibiting the water flow. Since only a professional will know the true cause of the problem, we recommend calling a plumber right away.
- Debris falling out of fixtures: Grime coming from the tap every time you turn on the water is another sign that there’s a clog in your piping. This type of clog often occurs when homeowners are careless about what goes down the drain. Fats, cooking oils and large chunks of food should never go in the drains. If they do, you’ll probably clog up your pipes.
- Awful odors: You may smell a clog before you see any visual evidence of it! Accumulation of food, hair or other debris in sinks or toilets leads to clogs, which tend to smell pretty nasty. The worse the blockage, the more terrible the smell. Stop living with nasty odors and call a plumber to fix your clog right away.
Call our team to assess your pipes
If you’re wondering when to get new plumbing pipes in Raleigh, NC, call Affordable Plumbing Call Us 1st, Inc. From plumbing inspections to drain cleaning, we provide a variety of residential plumbing services to meet all of your needs.