Many people in Knoxville, TN prefer to live in older homes. The reasons may vary but usually are one of the following. They are attracted to the older architecture. Or, they prefer the spaciousness of older homes. Indeed, they may believe that homes were simply better built in the past.
However, beneath their glorious look, these homes frequently conceal a number of issues that can be quite costly to fix. Some of these issues are minor nuisances, while others have the potential to cause significant damage. It would be prudent for potential homeowners to be aware of a few particular plumbing features that are unfortunately quite prevalent in homes that are more than a few decades old. The following is a list of plumbing issues that are commonly found in older homes, as well as a solution to each one. Often, the solution involves the installation of water filtration systems in addition to plumbing renovations.
Antiquated Materials
It’s possible that pipes in a home built before the 1990s could be made of materials that are no longer permitted by U.S. building codes. Homes more than a few decades old may be fitted with up to three obsolete kinds of pipes:
- Lead Pipes
Lead is one of the oldest metals used in home pipes. It is most commonly used for sewer pipes and water-main lines. Lead was considered a great metal for plumbing because it is malleable and durable. The problem is that lead is extremely toxic. Exposure to lead can cause pain in the gastrointestinal and joint systems, irritability, fatigue, and memory loss. Children are particularly at risk because it can seriously hinder their mental and physical growth. Although the use of lead in the United States has been restricted since the 1920s, it was not completely outlawed at the national level until 1986. Installation of water filtration systems may be wise if you have lead pipes.
- Polybutylene Pipes
When it came on the scene in the 1970s, polybutylene pipe was presented as a superb swap-out for more-valuable copper pipes. It saw far-reaching use all throughout the 1980s. Unfortunately, a class-action lawsuit claiming that these polybutylene pipes were defective forced the manufacturer to pay out millions of dollars. The plastic broke off, became brittle, and cracked as a result of oxidants in public water systems, despite the fact that the manufacturer never acknowledged a problem. The majority of mobile home installations made use of polybutylene piping, but any home built in the 1980s and early 1990s may contain these polybutylene plastic pipes. Any existing polybutylene pipes in your home should be replaced because they are no longer available for purchase to effect repairs nor are they rated by domestic building codes. Then, the installation of good water filtration systems will complete the renovations.
- Galvanized Pipes
Iron-and-zinc-coated galvanized pipe was frequently utilized for water lines in homes constructed prior to the 1960s. Unfortunately, over time zinc corrodes, which usually results in compromised pipes. The pipes tend to become clogged with rust long before their suggested lifespan of sixty years or so. In addition, when galvanized pipes age, they become highly brittle. When they get to that deteriorated state that they can’t be easily removed and replaced.
As older materials are replaced with modern and healthier materials, it would also be prudent to invest in water filtration systems to ensure your drinking and bathing water is safe.
Old Fixtures Wearing Out
Nothing lasts indefinitely, including pipes for your plumbing system. Spigots, pipe installations, faucets, showers, water filtration systems, and supply lines can wear out with time. Even though many people just try to “get by” with broken or poorly functioning plumbing, problems always seem to happen at the worst possible time. In fact, leaks from worn-out pipes can cause hundreds or thousands of dollars in damage. That is not something the average homeowner wants to be greeted with when coming back from a vacation trip!
The best method for mitigating general wear and tear is to perform regular preventative maintenance. Even if you inspect your home’s plumbing on your own, it’s important to have a licensed plumber check it once a year. An expert will have the devices needed to track down issues that a layperson might miss.
Poorly Done Previous Repairs
Because of their age, older homes have had plenty of chances to develop plumbing issues. Numerous repairs may have taken place before a new owner buys the home. Do-it-yourself repairs that are performed by the homeowner are common in older homes. Repairs that have not been made by a competent plumber may have issues that could manifest as problems going forward. Some of these may develop into costly situations, such as unsafe water heaters that suddenly leak or shower pans that were not installed correctly. Your best bet is to give a professional plumber a call and have older repairs redone and water filtration systems installed as needed.
Sewer Problems
Nobody gives their sewer line much thought because it is hidden and out of sight. If, however, it breaks, awareness suddenly increases! A malfunctioning sewer can back up unhealthy sewage directly into the home. Older homes were often fitted with sewer lines that weren’t made to handle a multitude of modern appliances. Additionally, tree root damage to sewer lines is more common in older homes. If sewer problems occur in Knoxville, TN, call in a professional right away. You may need to install up-to-date water filtration systems to prevent illness.
Call in a Professional Plumber
When you need plumbing advice or new water filtration systems, be sure to call My Professional Plumber in Knoxville, TN. They will be able to give your older home a top to bottom evaluation and make recommendations that will keep your plumbing and water filtration systems operating perfectly. Connect with them today.
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