Nothing lasts forever, and the pipes in your home, no matter how sturdy, may begin to show signs of disrepair. The average lifespan of your pipes may vary between 25 and 80 years, depending on the type of pipe. Deciding when to call a pipe replacement specialist to replace all or parts of your plumbing system is based on knowledge of the signs and symptoms of aged pipes. Keep an eye out for the following signs in order to keep on top of your plumbing maintenance and avoid major leaks and costly repairs.
- Know Your Pipes: Knowing the lifespan of your pipes will help you determine when to make repairs and replacements. Brass, galvanized steel, and cast iron pipes can last up to 100 years, while copper pipes can be expected to function between 70 and 80 years. Polyvinylchloride (PVC) pipes last for only 25-40 years. However, well-maintained pipes can and often do last longer, as do pipes that operate in areas that do not suffer from hard water, or water with a high mineral content.