Nothing in life can last forever, and that, unfortunately, includes the leaking pipes and old plumbing that may be in your home.
Time isn’t on our side when it comes to piping. As time passes, old pipes will begin to corrode, decompose, and become rusty. Dated, neglected plumbing can lead to floods, causing major water damage and even raw sewage coming into your house. In unfortunate cases, re-plumbing a property can be costly. But without repiping your home, you can expect many problems.
Read more about the issues with old plumbing below.
What’s the Problem with Leaking Pipes and Old Plumbing?
OUTDATED MATERIALS — Many of the materials that were once used for piping no longer meet building codes, or they are no longer made. When these obsolete materials need repair, newer products that meet today’s standards must be used.
For example, polybutylene (often shortened to PB) was the go-to piping material beginning in 1978 for millions of residential plumbing systems. Despite being called the “pipes of the future,” these pipes began to burst over time, causing water damage. Finally, in 1995, a $1 billion lawsuit stopped PB pipes from being manufactured and was no longer accepted by American building codes. It turns out polybutylene pipes can’t hold up against common disinfectants found in the public water supply. They quickly become brittle and develop many mini-fractures that eventually cause the pipe to wear out and crack.
However, since 2007, polybutylene manufacturers are no longer required to remove the defective material. Meaning, if you have an old home with PB pipes, you’ll be responsible for footing the bill.
Another common issue found in older homes (up until the early 1970s) caused by outdated materials is galvanized pipes. Corrosion can accumulate inside galvanized pipes, which limits its linespace to 50 years or less. This corrosion causes a gradual narrowing of the pipes’ diameter, restricting water flow and causing leaky pipes.
DEFECTIVE REPAIRS — Whether it’s a DIY job or an inadequate handyman, faulty repairs can cause serious issues for your plumbing. Plumbing issues should be left to the professionals. It is in your best interest and will save you money in the long run to hire a skilled and licensed plumber.
REPLACEMENT COSTS — Re-plumbing a house is an expensive job. Replacing sections of defective piping averages to just over $1,000. While repiping an entire house can cost $15,000 or more. Prices vary based on the size, the total number of fixtures, and the ease of access.
Contact NH Home Buyers
Leaking pipes and old plumbing can cause significant issues that can affect your home’s other parts, such as framing, drywall, and flooring. Repairing these problems is an expensive endeavor and should be addressed right away.
If you find old plumbing that needs replacing in your house but don’t feel like you can take on that pricey project, contact NH Home Buyers. If you live in Hillsborough, Rockingham, Merrimack, or Strafford counties in New Hampshire, we want to pay you cash for your home, regardless of its condition. No gimmicks, no fees, and no closing costs! Call us to get your all-cash offer today!