If you live in a home that is more than 20 years old, its plumbing is likely outdated. If your house was built before 1970, your plumbing system is even more antiquated. These homes typically have cast iron plumbing and pipes, which – despite their durability – are now nearing the end of their lifespan.
It can sometimes be difficult to tell if your pipes are damaged because many of them are often hidden. Additionally, you may have only checked your pipes (properly) if you have recently remodeled your bathroom or kitchen. Nevertheless, many signs of poor plumbing are as clear as day.
Signs You Need To Replace Your Cast Iron Plumbing
Here are the top 10 signs that you need to replace your cast iron plumbing:
Discoloration
If the water coming out of your faucets is yellow or brown, (and your water does not come from a well) this is a sign of damaged pipes. Discoloration in water generally occurs due to corrosion or rusting, which cast iron plumbing is especially prone to.
Leaks
Recurring leaks are always a red flag in plumbing. Leaks normally occur due to either damage brought on by sulfuric acid or cracks in your pipes. If any leaks continue even after you have extensively cleaned the pipes, be sure to call a cast iron pluming specialist to have them inspected.
Odor
As with many other things in life, a foul smell is typically a sign that something needs to be discarded and replaced. When pipes crack, sewer gas can escape and spread throughout your home. This type of gas is pungent and unhealthy.
According to Healthline, it smells similar to rotten eggs and if it is present in your house, you may experience symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and nausea. Therefore, do not hesitate to contact your plumber if you smell it.
Mold
When pipes crack and leaks begin to happen, mold can start to form. Certain types of mold can begin to grow with just 55% humidity. To remove mold, there are several things you can try. You can pour half a cup of bleach into the drain and let it sit for one hour (minimum). You can also pour one cup of vinegar into the drain and let it sit for 15 minutes.
Backups or Slow Draining
If you notice slow draining upon flushing the toilet or using the sink, this is likely an indication of damaged pipes. Be sure to choose your cleaning products carefully, (and how much of them you use) as some contain sulfuric acid, which can also cause significant damage to cast iron plumbing pipes.
Indentations Or Sagging
When a water line becomes cracked and leaks occur, a pool can sometimes form beneath your yard. This water can eventually disperse the soil and lead to sagging in parts of the ground. Therefore, be sure to address these indentations immediately.
Puddles
Similarly to sagging ground, the presence of puddles in your yard is an evident sign of damaged pipes. In most cases, the source of the leak will be found directly beneath the puddles.
Cracks
Cracks located in your home’s walls or foundations are one of the clearest signs of damaged plumbing. These generally occur as a result of an untreated leak in the mainline. If you spot cracks, be sure to replace your pipes immediately; otherwise, sinkholes may begin to form.
Visibly Healthy Lawn
Although it may sound surprising, sewage can be good for vegetation. Therefore, if your lawn appears to be in good condition – even though you have not done anything to improve it – it may be because of your damaged pipes.
Insect/Rodent Infestation
Insect or rodent infestations are a less-obvious symptom of damaged pipes. Flies, cockroaches, rats, and other vermins can enter your home via small cracks in your pipes. If this begins to happen, call a pest-control agency.
Speak To The Plumbing Experts About Cast Iron Plumbing
Contact the professionals at Ted’s Plumbing for more information on the common signs of damaged cast iron plumbing pipes. We are a self-owned-and-operated business based in Florida that is also bonded, licensed, and insured. We take pride in our high-quality plumbing services and personal customer service touch.
Our services include toilet repair, leak detection, drain cleaning, and faucet leaks and shower repair. Rather than digging under your property, we use high-pressure water and a vacuum to clear the path to the problem area. This process is known as Hydro excavation and is minimally invasive. We also provide backfilling for areas that are dug up during plumbing repair.
Call Ted’s Plumbing today at (754) 244-3247 or contact us online to learn more about our services. We provide a Satisfaction Guarantee, as well as an upfront free estimate before any work begins.