Signs you Need to Replace your Cast Iron Plumbing Pipes
If your house was constructed before the 1970s and you’ve never thought of getting a plumbing inspection done, you’re putting your belongings and home at risk. One of the reasons why this is important is that the pipes constructed prior to then were made of cast iron.
Back in the 20th century, cast iron pipes were a popular choice for a simple reason—plastic pipes hadn’t been invented. Other than that, the material is durable and can withstand huge amounts of pressure. However, if these pipes were manufactured in the 30s, their lifespan is about to come to an end.
Here are some signs that indicate that your pipes need a replacement:
Discoloration
Discoloration is one of the most common problems with cast iron pipes. This is because iron reacts with oxygen and moisture to form oxygen oxide, also known as ferrous oxide.
This process is called rusting. Rusted pipes are also highly susceptible to breaking down and degenerating. As a result, you see fragments of rust in water, and the water turns a rusty red color.
If you consume too much of it, it can lead to adverse health effects. It also tastes quite unpleasant and looks dirty. Rusted water is also more prone to bacterial growth compared to clean water. If you’re using the same water to do laundry, you might also end up with stained clothes.
Pest infestations
Corroded cast iron is a particularly favorable entry point for pests. Cast iron pipes are brittle. They can easily break down if there’s construction work happening at home. They also easily degenerate because they are not very resistant to acid attacks. If the pipes are placed outdoors where they can come into contact with acid rain, you’ll soon start seeing cracks and small holes in the structure that indicate damage.
If the pipes in your home are old and cracked, they can serve as gateways for pesky pests to make their way in. It’s a lot easier for them to attack and get through old pipes compared to newer ones. The surprising fact is that rodents and insects don’t need huge holes to make their way through. Even if the gaps are a quarter of an inch, roaches can easily invade the pipes.
On the other hand, non-metallic piping like PVC is not brittle and the appearance of holes as a result of acid damage is less common. Consequently, pest infestations are way less likely.
If you need a second opinion about getting your piping system replaced, get in touch with Pro Serve Plumbing. We are a plumbing service Fort Worth TX. Take a look at our services now.
