Although most types of pipes last at least 50 years, they will need to be replaced eventually. As your pipes age, your home may experience frequent leaks, low water pressure, and other plumbing issues. If you live in an older home, you may be especially concerned about the age of the pipes and knowing when it’s time to replace them.
Average Lifespan of Pipes
The expected lifespan of your plumbing system may vary depending on the type of pipes you have. Newer homes usually have brass, copper, or PVC pipes. Brass pipes have an average lifespan of 40 to 70 years, and copper pipes have a lifespan of 50 to 80 years. Older types of PVC pipes may last only around 50 years, but newer PVC pipes are expected to last 100 years or more.
If your home was built before the 1960s, it may have galvanized steel pipes. These pipes only have a lifespan of 20 to 50 years. Cast iron was also frequently used before the 1960s. While cast iron can have a lifespan of 75 to 100 years, its lifespan is often shortened due to rusting.
Lead pipes were common in the early 1900s, and they weren’t banned until the 1980s. Although lead pipes can last up to 100 years, they pose a serious risk to your health and should be replaced immediately.
Factors That Influence the Lifespan of Your Plumbing System
The key factors that determine the lifespan of your plumbing system are the type and age of your pipes. All materials become more vulnerable to damage over time. If your pipes are nearing the end of their anticipated lifespan, you should expect to experience corrosion and leaks.
The quality of your water can affect your pipes, too. Pipes may not last as long in homes with hard water because the minerals build up and cause corrosion. Acidic water can cause corrosion and leaks in your pipes as well.
The amount of water your household uses is another important factor in your plumbing system’s lifespan. More water usage leads to more wear and tear in the pipes.
Signs You Need to Repipe Your House
As a homeowner, you should be aware of the signs of a failing plumbing system so that you know when it’s time to replace the pipes. If you’re experiencing constant problems with your plumbing, your pipes may be aging and failing.
One small leak may be just a localized problem with an easy repair, but leaky pipes throughout your whole home can be a sign that you need to repipe the house. Widespread rust and corrosion in your pipes is another sign that the system needs to be replaced.
Issues with your water can indicate that your pipes are aging, too. For example, you might notice that your water has a reddish tint because the pipes are rusted. A strange taste or odor to your home’s water is another warning sign.
What to Expect When Repiping Your House
Repiping your home is a major project that should be handled by a licensed plumber. The plumber will first inspect your home’s plumbing system to assess the extent of the damage and create a plan for replacing the pipes. Your plumber will work with you to determine the pipe material that’s best suited to your home and budget.
Then, the plumber will prepare your home for repiping by turning off the water supply and opening the walls or ceilings to gain access to the pipes. Depending on the size of your home, the repiping process can take a few days to a week. Once the new pipes are installed, you can patch and repaint the walls.
If your pipes are aging and your home has frequent plumbing problems, it may be time to have the house repiped. Fortunately, modern pipes have a long lifespan, so you won’t have to worry about another repiping project for decades. If you have any concerns about your home’s plumbing system, contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. Our team is happy to work with you to repair or replace your pipes and keep your plumbing system running smoothly.