When To Upgrade Your Galvanized Plumbing Pipes
Is my piping outdated? Does it need to be modernized?
Galvanized pipes are steel pipes that have been coated with zinc to prevent rust and corrosion. In homes built before 1960, galvanized pipes were the standard choice, as they replaced older and more dangerous lead pipes, and here in Greater Houston, some homes were constructed as recently as the 1990s using galvanized pipes.
However, over time, water flowing through them will cause the inside of galvanized pipes to rust and corrode. When that occurs, it can cause a multitude of problems for your plumbing – and put you and your family in danger. This means that as time goes on, galvanized pipes need to be replaced for the safety of your home and everyone in it.
Warning Signs
If you spot low and/or uneven water pressure, discolored water, or leaks, your galvanized pipes may be corroding. These warning signs are not just inconveniences on their own but are a sign of a more serious issue. Galvanized pipes are coated with natural zinc, so corroding pipes may contaminate your water with traces of lead, which is toxic to people and pets even in small amounts.
Furthermore, if galvanized pipes were ever connected to lead pipes, corrosion inside the galvanized pipes may trap lead. Even if you had the lead pipes replaced, the lead in the corroded galvanized pipes remains and is periodically released.
Better Safe Than Sorry
The only real way to ensure there is no lead whatsoever in your plumbing is to replace your galvanized pipes. For residents of Houston, Tomball, Cypress, Katy, Spring, and Magnolia, Joe The Plumber is the professional to call for help with upgrading plumbing pipes, as well as many other plumbing services.
Although galvanized pipes are certainly a better choice than lead pipes, having galvanized pipes can still put lead into your water supply, so if your home contains galvanized pipes, we encourage you to call us for repiping services. Investing in your home and the safety of your family is always a good idea. We promise to always assess your pipes and answer your questions honestly because customer service – not overselling – is what we do.
Free Estimates
If you’re considering replacing your galvanized plumbing pipes, get in touch with Greater Houston’s #1 repiping specialist today. We’ll start the process off with a free estimate!
