Lead = Lead pipes used in the early 1900’s have a life expectancy of 100 years, but they can leach lead into your drinking water, which is a serious health hazard. Replace them right away!
Polybutylene = Polybutylene (Poly B.) is a form of plastic resin that was used extensively in the manufacture of water supply piping from 1978 until 1995 due to the low cost of the material and ease of installation. There is a lot of conflicting information from “experts.” Some suggest that this material is prone to leaking due to degeneration of piping and/or fittings, water quality, chlorine levels, poor installation and age. Over time, some or all of these factors may contribute to system failure (even if it was installed properly). Others insist that problems usually occur at joints, and conclude that the commonly used plastic fittings are the problem, so those systems with copper fittings should not have the same issues. We suggest researching the issue to draw your own conclusion, but keep in mind that this plumbing system may have a negative repercussion on insurability &/or future resale, regardless if there is an actual problem or not.
Other types of pipe = Don’t wait until you experience a flood of water or raw sewage into your home that causes thousands of dollars in damage to your building and belongings.
Follow the “Life Expectancy” chart below, but only after considering the following:
- Where there’s one leak, there are usually more.
2. Pipes in areas with hard water (high mineral content) will deteriorate faster.
3. Discoloration, stains, dimpling, pimples, &/or flaking of any pipes visible (in attic or crawl spaces for example) are all indications of corrosion.
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Wasn’t sure if I should repair or replace. this helped me make the right decision … thanks
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THANKS – I’ve had a few different plumbers propose a whole house re-pipe, but 2 others said I really don’t need to.
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