Common Plumbing Issues in Older Homes and How To Address Them

While new construction has its benefits, older homes have plenty of appeal as well! If you’re looking for a space with a little more character, buying a home that has some years under its belt is the way to go.

Older homes can come with a different set of plumbing problems, however. By staying proactive, you can minimize these issues (and the cost associated with correcting them). Here’s our guide to repairing the most common plumbing issues in your home:

1. Know the Most Common Plumbing Problems in Older Homes

Plumbing systems have evolved tremendously since they were first added to homes. Even if your house is only a few decades old, you should have your plumbing repair technician inspect for the following problems.

Corrosion is common in older homes since pipes used to be made out of materials that are more prone to rust. It can be dangerous to your health, so catching it early is essential.

If your drain is slow, it could be due to the age of your home. Slow drainage can be the result of “pipe bellies”—sags that occur as your home’s foundation shifts downward over time.

Faulty sewer lines are sometimes caused by tree root overgrowth and foundational shifts, as well. This is also more likely to happen if you have an older property.

Lastly, have your contractor check for poorly installed fixtures and pipes. We know a lot more about plumbing than they did a hundred years ago, and what was common practice then isn’t up to standard now. Correcting these problems is key to ensuring your plumbing can hold up to the demands of modern appliances.

2. Figure Out What Material Your Pipes Are Made out of

The next step to keeping your home’s plumbing in good condition is to determine what kind of piping material was used: galvanized steel, copper, or PVC pipe. 

Galvanized steel was popular between the 1930s and 1980s and is most prone to rust and corrosion. If your home still has steel pipes, you should consider replacing them with a trusted galvanized pipe replacement service.

Copper was commonly used in the 1960s, and is one of the most durable materials found in older homes. While it’s less prone to rust than steel, copper plumbing can still contain lead, so it’s important to have your technician check your system (including the solder, joints, and fittings).

The most common plumbing material used today is PVC pipe. Immune to corrosion and highly durable, PVC is largely regarded as the best material for keeping your home’s water supply safe.

3. Determine if Your Plumbing Needs to be Replaced

Not every plumbing issue requires replacing the whole system. The majority of plumbing problems can be addressed by removing clogs, fixing loose connections, and repairing faulty fixtures.

At ProFlo, we’ll never try to upsell you on work that you don’t need! If we can fix the problem and ensure your water supply is healthy without replacing the piping, we’ll do it.

4. Schedule an Appointment With a Good Local Plumbing Company

Regardless of the age of your house, having a plumber inspect your plumbing annually is one of the best ways to safeguard your home against potential safety and health issues. ProFlo is proud to be the region’s most reliable and recommended local plumbing company. Give us a call at 951-694-1300 or contact us online today!