Signs you might need new water pipes | Local Farm

(BPT) – As you spend more time at home, you likely begin to notice repairs that you need to do. You may even have tackled some home improvement projects. However, there are some improvements that you may not consider since they are hidden until they reach their breaking point – like your home’s plumbing system.

They rely on the pipes to bring clean water into your home for cleaning, washing, and drinking every day. But usually you can’t say something is wrong until it leaks and causes water damage that costs thousands of dollars.

There are signs that it is time to redesign your home. And if you get it right, this one project can save thousands of dollars and many future headaches by preventing spills, water damage, and unsafe drinking water.

Here’s what to look for.

1. Is your home over 50 years old?

If the original pipes weren’t replaced, decanting might be a good idea – before major water damage occurs. Galvanized pipes, which are prone to corrosion, leakage, and bursting, were typically used in older homes.

If your house was built earlier – around the 1920s – the pipes were likely made of polybutylene and / or lead. These materials are dangerous and should be replaced immediately. Polybutylene is very prone to cracking and leakage, so it is only a matter of time before a serious problem occurs. And lead seeps into drinking water, which can cause serious health problems for your family.

2. Do you have low water pressure?

If pipes contain rust or minerals, the flow of water into the house may be restricted. If this affects your water pressure, it is the result of years of accumulation – a clear sign is needed.

Bigger problems start small. If you’ve welded or patched leaks in small sections of pipe, it could indicate that your entire system is at risk.

Stains, flaking, depressions or rust on the pipes indicate corrosion. Corrosive pipes can leak and should be replaced. Rusty pipes can also color the water reddish or brown, which indicates that a repipe is required for your water to be healthy to drink.

5. Does your water taste or smell bad?

An unpleasant smell or taste can also mean that your water is unsafe due to a defect in your pipes. It’s best to have them inspected right away – and drink bottled water in the meantime.

6. Is it making strange noises?

If your water pipes rattle, clink, or pop, this is a sign of a bigger problem. You should have your pipes checked right away.

7. Is it running hot and cold?

If your shower quickly goes from freezing cold to scorching hot, corroded materials in the pipes may have broken off and blocked the anti-scald device or valve that regulates your water temperature.

If any of these signs sound familiar to you, contact a professional. Every home is different and requires a unique repiping solution. Professionals such as Uponor Pro Squad’s experts are trained in various installation configurations and considerations that may arise in your home.

These experts first do a thorough site analysis and check your home for signs of leaks such as moisture, mold, cracked foundations, and a flowing water meter. They also do a review of water usage. Your inspection and recommendations will enable you to be proactive and avoid problems before they arise.

Once the problem is identified, it is important to replace the pipes with a more durable material. An innovative solution for the refurbishment of houses is the use of Uponor AquaPEX, a flexible polymer tubing material that resists corrosion, pitting and limescale deposits while offering greater elasticity under freezing conditions. Flexible tube made of cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) lasts longer and makes repiping less invasive. The pipe can bend around corners and fit into tight spaces without having to cut large holes in drywall.

• Highest industry rating for drinking water safety

• Faster, safer, and easier installation

• Flexible for fewer fittings and better system performance

• Resistant to corrosion, pitting and limescale deposits

• Expands to minimize damage from frozen water

• Backed by a 25 year transferable limited warranty

Repeating it with PEX can keep you safe by protecting your home and family from future water disasters, costly repairs, and unsafe drinking water.

You might also like

Comments are closed.