When Should You Repair Defective Plumbing?
Your home’s plumbing pipes work every day to transfer water and sewage throughout your house. Unfortunately, they are prone to damage and failure over time.
Sometimes it’s easy to tell that your plumbing is failing, but often there are silent warning signs. Here are some of the most common signs it’s time for more extensive plumbing pipe repair or replacement: Water discoloration.
Leaks
The pipes that carry clean water throughout a home must be in good condition so you can enjoy this precious resource when you want it. But if they develop cracks or leaks, you might face major flooding, structural damage, and health risks. Fortunately, early plumbing leak repair can save you money and prevent a disastrous situation down the road.
One of the best ways to check for a leak is by checking your water meter. First, turn off all the faucets and appliances that use water in your house, then write down the number on the meter. After a few hours, check again. If the number has changed, that's a sign there is an active leak somewhere in your home plumbing system. You can then start looking for the source of the problem.
Leaks can occur in any part of the plumbing system, including buried underground lines. If you suspect a pipe has developed a crack or leak, it is essential to call in a plumber right away for emergency repairs.
Another common sign of a leak is water collecting in places it shouldn't, including on ceilings and walls. This can cause staining and even warping drywall. If left unchecked, the leaking water can also cause mold growth and structural issues in your home.
If you have old galvanized pipes, it's a good idea to consider replacing them with copper or PEX piping that is more resistant to corrosion. Even if you have a few corroded spots, it's important to get the entire line replaced because a burst pipe can lead to significant flooding and water damage.
Other signs of damaged or aging pipes include low water pressure, a musty smell around a drain, and changes in your water's color or taste. If your water turns blue, green, or pink, it may contain unhealthy minerals or organisms that can make you sick if you consume it. Plumber Delaware County service can perform a video inspection to diagnose problems with your pipes and determine if repair or replacement is necessary. Taking the time to keep your plumbing in good shape can save you thousands of dollars in flood and water damage.
Cracks
Your pipes are working hard every day to transfer water and waste throughout your home, and they work best when they’re in good condition. However, like all things, they don’t last forever. When your pipes are damaged, they can leak raw sewage or water and damage your home’s structure, making it less safe to live in.
While you can get away with some plumbing issues by patching them or repairing them, there comes a point where it’s time to consider replacing them altogether. Knowing the signs your pipes are breaking down will help you keep up with repairs and prevent costly damage to your home or business.
One of the first symptoms of broken pipes is wet spots on your walls or floors. This is a sign that the pipe is leaking, and it won’t be long before it causes extensive damage to your property. If you notice wet spots in your home, call a plumber immediately to have the problem assessed and fixed.
Other indicators of a broken pipe are discolored water and rusty fittings. Corroded pipes are a common cause of leaks, and the rust can also interfere with the quality of your water. If you notice that your water has a brown, red, or orange tint to it, call a plumber right away to have your pipes examined and possibly replaced.
Another common reason for a pipe replacement is that your existing pipes are made of an outdated material. Clay, cast iron, and polybutylene pipes are no longer in good condition, and they should be replaced as soon as possible to avoid expensive damage. If you have these kinds of pipes in your home, be sure to call a plumber for repair or replacement as soon as you see the first signs of trouble.
Finally, if you notice that your property is sinking or sagging, it could be because of the damage to your underground pipes. If your plumbing pipes are leaking, they can cause subsidence, which will affect the foundation of your house and may even cause it to collapse.
Corrosion
The corrosive properties of water are a common problem that can affect any home or building. This can lead to health issues and extreme damage in severe cases if left untreated. Understanding what causes corrosion, how it affects your home’s plumbing, and when to seek repair can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your family safe.
Corrosion happens when metals in a pipe react with water and oxygen to deteriorate the surface of the pipe. This process can cause small holes or cracks in the pipes that can eventually lead to leaks and flood damage. It can also reduce the pressure of your home’s piping system, cause clogs in sinks and water heaters, and even make your water look discolored.
While some rusting of metals is natural and harmless, other types of corrosion can be dangerous or deadly. For example, the Statue of Liberty’s greenish patina protected the copper skin from weather damage, but if the underlying iron frame had been exposed it would have deteriorated rapidly and collapsed. Unfortunately, some of the rusted parts of this historic monument were removed in 1986 to prevent future damage.
If you have a metal plumbing system, it is important to pay attention to any signs of corrosion, including staining on clothing and fixtures. This is caused by the dissolved metals in your water, such as copper and lead. Stagnant water will often accumulate higher levels of these metals, which can stain pipes and leave a metallic taste in your water. Flushing your piping systems can help decrease this staining, but it will not stop the deterioration of the plumbing itself.
If you notice any of the signs above in your home, it’s time to call for plumbing repair services. Don’t wait for the corroded piping to break down completely and leak or burst, which can cause extensive and expensive flood damage in your home. If you have outdated piping materials, such as clay, cast-iron, or polybutylene, consider replacing them with newer, more durable materials. Contact Plumber Delaware County today to learn more about piping materials and to schedule an inspection of your home’s piping.
Water Quality
Water quality is a measure of the suitability of water for various uses based on its physical, chemical, and biological characteristics. It is essential for human consumption and health, industrial use, and the natural environment. Access to clean, safe drinking water is a fundamental human right, and the water supply must be protected from contamination by agricultural, urban, and industrial activities.
Water can become contaminated when pipes leak, or if they're made of materials that aren't durable enough to last. When this happens, it's important to get your pipes repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Contaminated water can lead to serious health issues for you and your family.
Leaking and corroded pipes can cause a variety of problems, including damp walls and floors, warped drywall, and even mold growth. Fortunately, there are many signs that you can look out for to identify when your plumbing is in need of repair or replacement.
One of the most obvious symptoms is wet spots on the floor or wall. This is usually caused by a leaking pipe. Another sign is if you notice that your water pressure is lower than usual. This could indicate that a pipe is leaking or that there is a problem with your water filtration system.
You should also pay attention to the color of your water. If it is orange, red, or yellow, this may be a sign of rust or corrosion in your pipes. Brown or black water is more likely to be contaminated with harmful bacteria.
If you're concerned about the quality of your water, you should contact a plumber immediately to have it tested. They will be able to diagnose the issue and recommend the best course of action.
If you're in need of plumbing repairs, don't hesitate to call the experts at Plumber Delaware County. We can help you save money and keep your home's plumbing in good condition.
Your home’s plumbing pipes work every day to transfer water and sewage throughout your house. Unfortunately, they are prone to damage and failure over time. Sometimes it’s easy to tell that your plumbing is failing, but often there are silent warning signs. Here are some of the most common signs it’s time for more extensive…