Are you aware of the plumbing issues that many people confront when they move into older homes? There are a few things you should know before moving into an older house regardless of its exquisite charm and character. Purchasing an old house as a “fixer-upper” may be appealing. However, most people are unaware of the difficulties that come with owning an older house, particularly when it comes to plumbing.
Don’t be deceived by ornate crowns and plaster walls; below are some of the most prevalent plumbing issues in older homes that you should be aware of.
When buying an older house, it’s important to be mindful of some of the potential snags. While many of these issues may be minor, it’s best to start with the facts — especially if the house is older than a few decades:
1. Piping Materials That Are Out Of Date
Most homes built before 1990 include pipe materials that are no longer authorized by U.S. building rules. Some of the most frequent types of obsolete pipework include:
- Sewer and main water lines are made of lead pipe. Lead is a very dangerous substance.
- In residences built before 1960, galvanized pipe was utilized for main water lines. These pipes, which are made of iron and zinc-coated, corrode with time and are prone to breaking.
- During the 1980s, polybutylene was utilized as a substitute for copper wires. This substance resembles firm plastic, yet it flakes, brittles, and cracks.
If any of these plumbing materials are present in your new possible house, you may want to consider pipe replacement before moving in, as well as the associated expenses!
2. Piping Bellies
The progressive movement or shifting of the home and surrounding dirt over time causes this sort of plumbing difficulty. This movement affects subterranean piping networks beneath houses. A negative slope, often known as a “belly,” results, restricting water flow through the pipes. You can notice garbage or sediment pools beneath your house. Over time, it may cause blocked pipes and leaks.
3. Sewer Lines That Are Faulty
You might not give your new home’s sewage line much thought. However, it’s critical to do your homework, especially if you’re buying an older house.
Sewer pipes in older homes are more likely to be problematic due to high use over time. Furthermore, as time has passed, contemporary appliances have driven more water through them. This makes them more subject to damage, wear and tear, and leaks.
4. Outdated Plumbing Fixtures
An old house’s charm may be found in its faucets and other fixtures. When it comes to plumbing, though, this isn’t necessarily a good thing. In the end, several fixtures, particularly faucets, water valve lines, and pipelines, have reached the end of their useful life. Corrosion can result in a reduction in water flow, broken knobs, and leaks.
5. Repairs That Aren’t of Good Quality
An older home may have needed some plumbing repairs due to its age. Low-quality plumbing work, on the other hand, might lead to a slew of issues. Some of these plumbing repairs may include do-it-yourself or quick-fix alternatives that might be unsafe and result in large costs down the road. Have a professional inspect your plumbing and replace or repair what is required.
