How to Determine if Your Pipes Are Already Worn Out

Regular pipe inspection is important – especially if you live in an old house. Like most other fixtures in your home, your plumbing pipes are also prone to the effects of wear and tear. They will encounter problems as they age. If you fail to check closely, you might not notice indications of problems that may require costly repairs.

You should inspect the areas in your home that you do not often visit such as basements, crawlspaces, and utility rooms. Check for signs that your pipes need repairs or replacement. These include:

• Water Discoloration – You need to contact a plumber as soon as you notice unusual water color coming out of your taps. This may be due to rust, which makes your water unpleasant-tasting. It also hardens the water. When this happens, it will be difficult to rinse soap thoroughly from your skin, dishes, and clothes.

• Leaks – Ignoring a seemingly minor leak is a big mistake. This is because it is probably an indication that your pipes already need replacement. Chances are, they are as old as your home itself, and are already showing signs of deterioration.

You should be wary if you see mildew or mold in the bathroom or anywhere else in your house. A leaking pipe offers the ideal place for mold since it prefers moist surroundings; more so if the leak happens behind a wall or under the floor.

On the other hand, mildew in the shower is often not a cause for alarm. But, if you see it in another part of your home, you may be facing a serious problem. Mildew has a distinctive musty smell. If, after cleaning and scrubbing your home thoroughly, you smell mildew, chances of a leak are high.

• Corroded Pipe – Flaking and dimpling are indications that corrosion has begun to set in your pipes. Replacement is then in order. High acid content in your water can also corrode your pipes. Leaving copper pipes idle for long periods of time also leads to rusting.

• Stains – Check under your sink and on nearby walls for discoloration and stains. These are indicators of potential plumbing issues. If you notice stains on the floor that is directly underneath a bathroom, there may be a leak somewhere. Staining on nearby walls, even if the ceiling is clear, may mean that there is a leak in a pipe further down the line.

Inspect your bathroom walls for traces of warping or staining. The drywall may have moistened and is starting to bubble. If this is the case, it will often begin to warp, then slowly break apart. You will need the help of a plumber in Tucson to fix the problem. If neglected for a long time, the drywall may need to be torn down, and this will lead to more expensive repairs.

Keep these tips in mind. These will help you spot worn out pipes that may need immediate replacement. Regular inspection can help prevent more serious damage in the future. If you don’t have the time to check the pipes yourself, having a plumber do it for you would be a good idea.

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