Scarborough Plumbing Services: How Long Do Pipes Last?

Few things in life are as frustrating as plumbing troubles, so it’s smart to be proactive when it comes to your pipes. Whether you’re experiencing problems or just suspect it’s time to replace your pipes, your best move is to contact plumbing services in Scarborough through Handyman Connection. Their service professionals will inspect your pipes and offer expert advice and workmanship to get your plumbing in tip-top shape.

While many pipes will last a lifetime, that doesn’t mean they’ll never need to be replaced. Different types of pipes have varying lifespans, so knowing what materials yours are made of and watching for signs that they’re wearing out will help you address problems before they become severe.

Common Pipe Materials

Copper: This is one of the most frequently used plumbing materials in modern construction. Copper pipes typically last for 70-80 years but are prone to corrosion if your water supply has low pH.

Brass: An alloy of copper and zinc, brass has a plumbing lifespan of up to 100 years. As with solid copper, corrosion is a concern, and brass pipes should be inspected as they can contain trace amounts of hazardous lead.

PVC: Despite being less durable than copper or brass pipes, PVC is often used because it resists rust and is cheaper than metal. Today’s PVC pipes can last for decades but may warp when transporting extremely hot water.

Less Common Materials

Galvanized Steel: Although strong, galvanized steel hasn’t been used much since the 1960s due to concerns about its safety when transporting potable water.

Cast Iron: Popular from the 17th century through to the mid-1970s, cast iron is no longer used much due to rusting.

Lead: Because of their extreme toxicity, lead pipes, though durable, should be replaced immediately.

Polybutylene: Used extensively toward the end of the 20th century as an affordable option, polybutylene has fallen out of fashion because of its tendency to break apart.

Signs of Trouble

Because your pipes can fail without warning, it pays to know which type you have so you can use their age and material as a basis for what to expect in terms of lifespan and performance. Beyond that, there are some telltale signs to watch for that will alert you to potential problems.

Leaks are always concerning, so get in touch with Handyman Connection if any of your faucets are dripping. Also be on the lookout for stains on the walls, floors, or ceilings where pipes are located, as this can indicate leakage in areas that aren’t visible. Get in the habit of doing routine inspections, and don’t forget to look in hard-to-see areas like under your sinks. When running your taps, pay attention to the clarity of your water: if it’s discoloured, you’ll need to have both your water heater and your pipes checked out.

While any of these problems don’t necessarily mean your pipes need to be replaced, they do need to be addressed with a sense of urgency. Minor plumbing issues can quickly turn into major ones if you delay contacting a service professional.

Whether or not you know what type of pipes you have and how long they’ve been in your building, consulting with a Scarborough professional from Handyman Connection will help you get ahead of any problems before they happen. If you’re already experiencing a plumbing issue, they’ll connect you with a friendly, helpful, and professional plumber who’ll get the repair done right.

You can rely on Handyman Connection’s service providers for high-quality work and amazing customer service. For repairs, remodels, renovations, or replacements, fill out the easy contact form on their website to get an estimate for any plumbing service you require.