For about 50 years between the 1930s and 1980s, houses were fitted with steel pipes to support the indoor plumbing. Around the 1960s, copper was also introduced to the plumbing market. These days, PVC is the pipe material of choice and performs infinitely better than the metal varieties. If you own an older home that still has metal pipes, there’s a good chance you might need to consider whole house repiping. Look for these signals. 

Leaks

If you live in an older home and regularly deal with plumbing leaks, a whole house repiping might be in order. Over time, metal pipes corrode and no longer provide an impermeable barrier to the water and wastewater that they’re carrying through your home. Left unrepaired, plumbing leaks can easily, and quickly, cause $1,000s of damage in your home. 

Water pressure problems

Constant water pressure problems are also another sign that it might be time for new plumbing. The reason this happens is that deposits and buildup of minerals collect in your pipes over time and can create blockages in the pipes. These blockages impact the flow of water which causes less than ideal water pressure. 

Discolored water

If you notice that the water coming from your faucets is no longer clear, it could signal a degradation of the metal piping in your home and point to repiping as the answer. Over time, as metal pipes corrode, they release rust and metal particles into the water. Water with any tint of brown coming out of your faucet is a problem that warrants a call to your trusted plumber.   

Preventative updates

You might also consider a whole house repiping projects well before any problems rear their ugly heads. Replacing old metal pipes is a worthwhile upgrade in your home and will even make it more attractive to prospective buyers if you ever decide to sell. If you’re unsure if this type of plumbing upgrade is right for you and your home, call a knowledgeable plumber and discuss the pros and cons of the project.