Plumbing Problems In Old Homes

Out with the Old

Older homes are known for their great history, unique character, and timeless style. One thing you won’t find in an old house that can stand the test of time? The plumbing. It may not come as a surprise that the plumbing installed in homes over 50 years ago will not be as efficient, safe, and in-tact as today’s modern plumbing systems.

If you find yourself living in an enchanting old home, you may begin to notice the faults with the toilets, bathtubs, and faucets around you. Not to fear, like some of the other projects that come with an older home, plumbing repairs and replacements are available to you to get the home flushing and draining like the rest of the 21st century!

Old Piping Materials

If your home was built before the ’90s, there is a likely chance that the pipes within your walls are made of an outdated material that is no longer considered the best option. The most toxic of materials that could be present is lead. Lead piping was often used for sewer and water main lines as it is exceptionally durable. However, as we know, lead can cause several health risks and should never be transported in water.

Another outdated piping material is galvanized steel. While these iron pipes coated in zinc were seen as long-lasting, they are susceptible to corrosion and rust, causing them to wear thin and burst and crack more easily.

While repiping your home sounds like a daunting headache of a process, new materials are made to last and keep your home safe. Your plumbing will be much better suited for its job, and you’re less likely to experience frequent breakdowns.

Outdated Fixtures

The fixtures in your old home have long since gone out of style. Even if you enjoy the vintage look of the kitchen faucet or shower hose, they are likely rusted and eroding from years of use. If rust and erosion are present, the fixtures may break, restrict water flow, and eventually cause a lot of damage to your home if continually used.

If you want to keep the vintage look, there are plenty of new products out there to fit your style while providing a fresh, perfectly intact fixture.

Sewer Line Problems

The sewer line is placed beneath the earth, out of sight and out of mind. That is until something goes horribly wrong and the sewer makes itself known. Outdated sewer lines were not built to keep up with the influx of water-using appliances the modern homeowner uses every day.

Corroded sewer lines are more likely to leak smelly sewage water into your yard and home, creating a big mess and costing you a small fortune in repairs. Old lines are also more likely to develop clogs and become the victims of intrusion from nearby tree roots.

When moving into your older home, be sure to have a professional take a look at your sewage line to remove the possibility of a big mess and provide you with a new system capable of keeping up with the dishwasher, washing machine, and toilets!

Bad Repairs

Plumbing has come a long way in terms of knowledge and practice of skills and repairs. An old home is more likely to have had some not-so-effective repairs made over the years. This is why frequent inspection of your plumbing is essential. It will help our plumbers solve the mystery of your faulty plumbing and get you the effective repairs you need to keep flushing and washing!

If you’re looking for a plumber to take care of your outdated plumbing system, give Flow Pro Plumbing a call at (925) 450-6669!