Plumbing Problems to Watch Out for in Old Houses
Older homes are more susceptible to plumbing problems due to aging plumbing infrastructure, so it’s important for homeowners to know what kinds of things to watch for that can signal problems with their old home’s plumbing. This post will discuss some common plumbing issues found in older homes and how they can be identified.
Corroded Pipes
Pipe corrosion is a common plumbing problem found in countless older homes. Many pipe materials, such as galvanized steel, cast iron, and copper, can corrode and deteriorate over decades of use. Identifying pipe corrosion early can be beneficial to have the corroded pipes addressed before they lead to additional problems, such as a leak or burst pipe.
Some warning signs of corroded piping include discolored water coming out of fixtures, visible rust and corrosion on exposed piping, low water pressure from fixtures, leaks, and water with a strange metallic smell or taste. If homeowners notice these signs of pipe corrosion, they should call a plumber immediately. Corroded pipes typically require repiping and pipe replacement rather than repairs.
Low Water Pressure
Poor water pressure in the home, characterized by weak water flow from faucets and fixtures, is another common issue that occurs in older homes. Various plumbing problems can cause low water pressure, including clogged water lines, corroded pipes, water leaks, and old, clogged plumbing fixtures due to mineral buildup over time.
When a household experiences water pressure issues, a plumber can inspect the system to identify the underlying cause of the reduced water pressure and determine the best way to resolve it, thereby restoring proper water pressure. Depending on the cause, the solution may range from repairing a water leak to replacing a pipe or even a simple fixture replacement.
Sewer Line Problems
Aging sewer lines in older homes are also more likely to experience problems. Some reasons sewer lines can leak and become damaged include internal problems like a sewer line clog or corrosion, while external forces, such as shifting soil and invasive tree roots, can also lead to issues and damage.
Some signs that can alert homeowners to a problem with their sewer lines include slow draining, foul sewage odors from drains or outside, gurgling sounds, drain or toilet backups, unexplained wet spots or soggy areas in the yard, and patches of unusually lush grass growth that often occur where sewage leaks underground. If homeowners notice these signs, they should call a plumber as soon as possible to prevent further problems from occurring, like a clogged sewer line leading to a sewer line leak.
About Plumb Right
Plumb Right has been serving Brooklyn Park, MN, and the surrounding areas since 1988. They offer emergency services, upfront pricing, and trustworthy plumbers. Call them for plumbing services in Brooklyn Park, MN.
