Plumbing Services For Older Homes

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Older homes have a lot of character and appeal but can present unique problems, especially with plumbing. Such homes often feature worn-out pipes, fixtures, and systems that have existed for decades and as a result, if you live in an older home, you may encounter persistent plumbing problems that require specialized plumbing services. When these issues arise, you need to find a qualified plumber with knowledge and experience in older plumbing systems.

In this article, our plumbing team highlights some of the common problems, specific repairs, and tips on how to maintain your old plumbing system effectively.

Common Plumbing Issues in Older Homes

Older homes often have outdated materials, mainly lead water pipes. Lead water pipes were common before the 1960s but were phased out due to health risks related to lead contamination. Additionally, if your home was constructed before 1970, galvanized steel pipes were likely used in the plumbing system. These pipes are known to rust, causing low water flow rates and frequent leakages.

Some other common issues we have found in older homes include:

• Deteriorated Pipe Joints and Connections: The seals and fittings between pipes can deteriorate over time, leading to potential leaks. If not repaired, this can lead to water damage and mold growth.
• Tree Roots: Tree roots penetrating through the sewer line are more common in old homes with well-established trees around them. When trees become large, their root systems can intrude into sewer lines, gradually filling them and causing slow drains and backups.
• Low Water Pressure: Low water pressure is common in homes with very old plumbing systems, often due to rust and deposits on the inner walls of the pipes.

Additionally, the majority of older homes in South Florida still have original plumbing fixtures and appliances installed, which may be outdated, less efficient, leaky, and violate current plumbing standards.

Plumbing Services for Older Homes

Due to the specialized requirements of old pipes, services have been designed to solve the problems encountered. Technological advancements, such as video cameras, enable pipe inspection and assessment without requiring the plumber to access the pipe physically. This is useful in detecting issues like corrosion, blockages, or any damage that cannot be easily noticed.

Here are some of the plumbing services required for older homes:

Pipe Relining

Pipe relining involves constructing a new pipe within the existing one. This technique enables the rehabilitation or installation of sewer lines without having to dig up the surrounding area or cause extensive damage to the landscaping of the property.

Trenchless Sewer Line

Trenchless sewer line repair makes it easier to fix sewer lines or install new ones and similar to pipe relining can be done without digging up the landscaping of the property being worked on.

Water Pressure Regulation Services

Water pressure regulation services help with low and fluctuating water pressure, which is predominant in many older homes. Plumbers can install pressure-regulating valves or fix the existing ones to maintain adequate water pressure. Many structures require fixtures and appliance upgrades to meet today’s efficiency and usage standards. This may entail changing old toilet bowls, faucets, and water heaters with new ones.

Preventive Maintenance for Older Plumbing Systems

Maintenance services should be carried out regularly to prevent damage to your home’s plumbing system. Homeowners should arrange a regular maintenance schedule with a local plumbing company to help keep their plumbing system working effectively. Plumbing system inspections should include an assessment of visible pipes, fixtures, and appliances and can possibly identify potential leaks.

Regular drain cleaning is also necessary, especially in old homes where drain clogging can happen over time. Since this can lower your plumbing system’s lifespan, consult a professional drain cleaning company to have your drains cleaned regularly. Another important preventative maintenance service is water heater maintenance, additionally, many older homes may need to have their water heater replaced to ensure a constant hot water supply in the home.

Preventing major plumbing disasters involves dealing with small problems when they arise. As a homeowner, always be on the lookout for leaks, noises, or changes in water pressure, and contact a local plumber as soon as possible. Addressing plumbing issues promptly can often help prevent extensive repairs in the future.

Choosing the Right Plumber for Older Houses

When searching for a plumber to maintain or repair your plumbing system, it’s advisable to pick one with prior experience handling similar systems. To make the right choice, check for:

• Experience with working on older homes with systems similar to yours.
• Knowledge of your local plumbing codes and requirements.
• Has proper licenses and insurance to cover you and your property.
• Awareness of historic preservation ordinances, covenants, or standards, if applicable to your home.

Ask your plumber what type of diagnostic equipment they use and which techniques they are most familiar with for inspecting, repairing, or replacing older plumbing systems.