Your plumbing pipes are essential for delivering clean water and removing waste from your home. When it comes to keeping these pipes in peak condition, there are some different aspects you need to keep in mind that might help you determine if it is time to call Kinsey Plumbing Services for repiping services in Georgetown, TX.
The first, and possibly the most important, is the material that the pipes are made of. Different types of pipes have different lifespans, and how soon you’ll need to get in touch with a repipe company will depend on the material, usage, and maintenance. Here are some common pipe materials and their expected longevity.
Copper
Copper pipes are durable, corrosion-resistant, and biocompatible. They will not contaminate the water due to their bacteria-inhibiting properties. When brand new, copper pipes can last for 50 to 75 years and can hold their own against high heat and UV rays, which is why repipe specialists typically use them for hot water lines. However, copper pipes tend to cost more to procure and install due to their rigidity.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel pipes are coated with zinc to prevent rusting. They can last for 80 to 100 years, but they may corrode from the inside out due to hard water or electrolysis.
Brass
Brass pipes are made of a copper-zinc alloy that is strong, resilient, and resistant to corrosion. They can last for 80 to 100 years. The major drawback of brass pipes is that they may contain trace amounts of lead that can leach into the water – not exactly an ideal material for a whole house repiping.
Cast Iron
Cast iron pipes are sturdy and fire-resistant. They can last for 75 to 100 years, but they are very heavy and can sink into the soil over time.
PVC
PVC pipes are plastic pipes that are lightweight, flexible, and inexpensive. They can last for 50 to 100 years, but they may degrade due to UV exposure, high temperatures, or chemical reactions.
PEX
These plastic pipes are cross-linked with chemicals to enhance their strength and durability. These can last for more than 50 years. A PEX repipe is easy and affordable, making it one of the most preferred by property owners.
If your pipes are nearing the end of their lifespan or showing signs of damage, such as leaks, discoloration, low pressure, or bad odor, you may need to replace them. Replacing old or faulty pipes can prevent water damage, health hazards, and plumbing emergencies.
Replacing pipes can be a complex and costly project that requires professional help. That’s why you should contact Kinsey Plumbing Services for a hassle-free repiping project.
