Recurring plumbing problems can sometimes require a whole-house plumbing replacement to address the problem. When it comes to your household, nothing can be more frustrating or unsettling than a recurring plumbing malfunction. Slow draining sinks and tubs or backed up toilets can really wreak havoc on your daily life in addition to constant water line leaks, ruptures or contaminated water. Not only do these problems represent a health concern, but can also lead to costly home repairs due to water damage. This post will discuss a few of the scenarios that could lead to a whole-house plumbing replacement and what you can expect once the work begins.
Water Line Replacement
This scenario is most often associated in homes with old, galvanized plumbing supply lines. While the galvanized plumbing was the standard back in the day and built to last, as with everything, as time passes, age takes its toll. As the plumbing material deteriorates, it becomes more susceptible to leaks or ruptures that can release harmful contaminates into your drinking water. Often, homes with galvanized plumbing must be re-plumbed with new piping materials to alleviate the problems. Homeowners who face this scenario can expect a job that could last up to three days on average and a project that entails rerouting new plumbing supply lines through existing walls, ceilings and in some cases the attic and/or crawl spaces.
Collapsed or Ruptured Sewage Lines
Before the advent of PVC “Poly Vinyl Chloride” pipe, the most common materials used for sewage line construction was Orangeburg, clay or cast iron piping material. Orangeburg and clay sewage lines are notorious for collapsing as well as being prone to tree root invasion. Cast iron piping was superior to these materials when it came to durability but also deteriorates with age. Cracked, collapsed and root infused sewage lines can lead to slow draining or complete sewage backups in your home. While many plumbers can restore your service with a drain snaking or cleaning to remove tree roots, the solution is only temporary as the roots will penetrate the cracks again and cause blockage.
When your sewage lines have suffered a collapse, the most common solution to restore service is to repair the collapsed section of pipe or total sewage line replacement. Homeowners facing a sewage line replacement should expect a major project that could entail trenching or digging up the yard as well as the possibility of cutting through flooring and concrete to reach and replace the damaged sections of sewage pipe.
For answers to your questions, contact The Pink Plumber today.
