Lead piping used to be the standard until the harmful effects it caused became widely-known. To replace lead pipes, galvanized steel pipes were used for home water supply lines. While they were beneficial at the time, they could be the reason why your plumbing is having problems. Keep reading to learn more about galvanized steel pipes and whether or not it is time for you to replace them.
How long does galvanized steel plumbing last?
Galvanized steel pipes can last up to 60 or 70 years before they start to fail, however, if they are installed incorrectly their life span can be drastically shortened.
What are the signs I should replace my galvanized steel plumbing?
There are a few signs to look for to know whether or not your galvanized steel piping is failing. Early signs to look for are decreased water pressure and brown or rust-colored water coming out of your faucet. Rust around the pipe joints or rust spots are more advanced signs. The final life stages of the pipes are ruptured pipes and pin-hole leaks.
Is galvanized steel plumbing still used in homes?
Galvanized pipes are no longer used in homes, due to the fact that they can have inconsistent life spans and cause more hassle to homeowners once they need to be replaced.
What should I replace my galvanized steel pipes with?
There are a few options to replace your old galvanized steel pipes with the most popular options being PEX, PVC, CPVC and copper pipes. Their lifespans are dramatically longer compared to galvanized pipes.
- Copper – 50 to 100 years
- CPVC – 50 to 70 years
- PEX – More than 40 years
- PVC – 50 to 80+ years
Is galvanized steel plumbing good for plumbing?
There is nothing inherently wrong with galvanized pipes if they are still in good condition. If you are aware you have them, one way to keep them in good condition is by lining them with epoxy coating or liner.
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