5 Plumbing Issues To Expect in Older Homes

Older homes exude a sense of authenticity and character that attracts specific buyers. Additionally, some buyers prefer older houses since they are affordable and upgradeable with time. However, older homes might require renovations to restore various functions, including plumbing.

Some plumbing issues in older homes present minor inconveniences, while others are ticking time bombs. Nonetheless, a professional plumber can quickly restore a problematic plumbing system. This blog highlights five plumbing issues to expect in older houses.

1. Outdated Piping

Building codes that dictate plumbing materials use change with time. Therefore, renovated and newer homes feature newer plumbing systems. However, some older properties still have the original piping system.

Lead, galvanized steel, and polybutylene are the most common piping materials in older homes. However, some of the materials are no longer used, such as lead due to lead poisoning. Therefore, contact a plumber to inspect an entire plumbing system and establish the materials used. An experienced service provider can easily uninstall outdated pipes and recommend the best option for replacement.

2. Sewer Line Intrusion by Tree Roots

Some homeowners neglect their drainage and sewer lines since they are installed underground. Unfortunately, years of neglect can lead to overgrown vegetation and root intrusion into drainage and sewer lines. Over time, the roots damage drainage pipes and components, affecting efficient waste management

Call a plumber to inspect the proximity of vegetation to a drainage line and determine potential root intrusion. A service provider will use a camera to examine a sewer line's insides for signs of root breach. In some cases, relocating a sewer line and plumbing pipes is more effective in restoring older homes than removing mature trees.

3. Worn Fixtures and Connections

The charm in old homes comes from various elements, including antique faucets and fixtures. However, despite their contribution to interior décor, such features do not last forever. Therefore, when buying an old house, expect worn-out fixtures, such as faucets and drainage grates. Unfortunately, minor issues in old fixtures can escalate quickly; for example, a faulty faucet can give way and cause flooding.

Hire a plumber to inspect all fixtures and connections for signs and the extent of wear. Timely repairs and replacements improve wastewater flow and control freshwater wastage. In addition, homeowners can maintain their old houses' look by replacing worn-out fixtures with modern ones that have antique designs.

4. Plumbing Pipe Shifts

Plumbing pipes in older homes are typically installed underground or housed in a concrete slab. Over time, the pipes might move due to natural geological processes that cause the ground to shift or slope. Unfortunately, the movement can create a pipe belly, leading to waste and sediment pooling. Consequently, accumulated waste restricts flow and causes leaks.

Deal with potential pipe bellies promptly to prevent toxic wastewater accumulation, flooding, or property damage. A service provider can use a plumbing camera to inspect the piping for a negative slope and recommend corrective action.

5. DIY Installations and Repairs

Thanks to technological advancements such as the internet, finding a plumber today is much easier. However, homeowners in the past doubled up as handy people and maintained or repaired minor plumbing issues. Unfortunately, years of DIY restorations are a source of plumbing issues in older houses.

Since homeowners are not expert plumbers, they cannot distinguish between professional and DIY installations. Therefore, hire a specialist since they can notice unprofessional work and associated inefficiencies. DIY mistakes can range from simple issues like unsecured pipes to serious ones, such as improperly sloped showerheads and drainage pipes.

Although older houses appeal to various people, some properties have common plumbing issues. Contact us at Service Star Plumbing for thorough inspection services and timely repair of plumbing systems.