You may want to buy an old home or try to flip a house for a profit. Whether you plan on flipping or staying, any home’s plumbing system is essential to its ability for someone to live there. Plumbing pipes can go for a long time without replacement. So, if you have an older house, it’s very possible your plumbing is way out of date. Keep an eye out for these signs that your home has outdated plumbing to replace before you face a disaster.
Regular Signs of Leaking
One leak isn’t always a sign of terrible things on the horizon, but if you start to notice water damage more often than you would like, it’s a good sign your home has outdated plumbing you need to replace. Things like mold spots, mildew growth, and damp patches on walls and ceilings can indicate your pipes have begun to fail and leak everywhere. This can eventually affect your home’s structural integrity, so don’t wait to fix these problems if you notice them.
Low Water Pressure
A home with subpar water pressure can be a serious annoyance to everyone who lives in it. If you can’t figure out why your water comes out of your faucet or showerhead so weak, it’s likely that your piping isn’t up to date. With a few plumbing upgrades, your water pressure can go back to normal. This is especially important if you notice that your water pressure suddenly drops in quality, as that could indicate a busted or leaky pipe.
Frequent Clogging Problems
A clog in any drain in your home is cause for some concern. But if you have clogs very frequently, there could be a deeper problem you need to address. Usually, serious clogs and backflows happen because the home’s sewer line isn’t clear. You can try and clear out the debris backing up your sewer line, but the damage could already be too ingrained in the pipes. Calling a professional plumber to check on your sewer pipes’ status is a good idea if you have clogging issues that keep popping up.
Visible Signs of Age
Sometimes, the proof is easy to see with the naked eye. It’s always a good idea to keep tabs on your pipes—particularly the ones you can see in your basement or crawl space. Look for common signs of aging, such as visible rust spots or cracks in the pipes’ surfaces. These indicators can alert you that you need an inspection or a replacement.
