If you are already living in an older home, or are planning to purchase one for its vintage charms, you will have to face the reality that things are probably going to go wrong from time to time. As homes age, they can become more interesting and quaint, but also more fragile and increasingly subject to breakdowns. One of the areas of an older home where this can become a big problem is the plumbing, which can have disastrous results if not taken care of properly.
If you own an older home or intend to, it’s very important that you have a complete inspection of your plumbing system performed by your friendly plumber in St Marys who can check everything out from top to bottom to make sure your home is in shipshape condition.
Let’s take a look at some of the common plumbing issues that older homes tend to face so you can stave off potential harm to your property and enjoy peace of mind:
- Outdated Fixtures – Yes, antique fixtures and taps have a real old-time appeal and are actually made of more durable materials than many of their modern counterparts, but unfortunately, nothing is permanent, and they will eventually corrode away to the point where they become unusable. Corrosion can result in leaks that can do terrific damage to a home, or greatly reduce your water pressure as the water has to push its way through the mineral deposits and rust that time has wrought. It might be possible to refurbish these antiques, and if not you can often find modern look-a-likes made to resemble the classics. If you sense that there is a problem with your vintage fixtures, don’t wait, have them checked as soon as possible to prevent extensive water damage that can cost you a lot of money!!
- Pipe Corrosion – Take a moment to have a good look at any exposed pipes in your home. First check for any red, green, white, or yellow discoloration. Is the tap water also discolored? Is your water running very slowly? Can you find sagging flooring, damp carpeting, or evidence of leaks under your home’s foundation? All of these signs point toward old, corroded pipes that need attention quickly before they back up or even burst!
- Sewer Line Failure – Older sewer lines weren’t designed to handle the more powerful water pressure that modern-day appliances force through them, which can result in leaks and breakage. Another risk comes in the form of tree and shrubbery roots that can strangle and even break the pipes. Moreover, houses settle on their foundations over time, especially if you are living in a tectonically active area, causing older lines to snap and fail! If you can smell an unpleasant rotten egg odor, or see mysterious wet spots appearing in your lawn, you have likely suffered a damaged sewer line and should summon your plumber immediately!
For further information and advice about your older home’s plumbing system, be sure to check the Australian Government’s plumbing code which can help you make your best choices regarding this important aspect of your home. We hope this helps you keep the water running for years to come!
