Is It Time to Replace Your Plumbing?

There are two main types of pipes in every home:

1. Drain pipes serve to carry water away from drains and are not pressurized.
2. Supply pipes bring water into your home and are constantly under pressure, which is the reason why their lifespan is in general shorter than the lifespan of drain pipes.
   
   

How long your pipes will last cannot be determined with certainty. If your home is old, your water lines have likely gotten damaged over time, most often as a consequence of changing weather conditions and spreading tree roots. However, the materials that they are made of also play a crucial role in determining their lifespan.

Copper pipes are commonly used for water supply lines (both hot and cold water distribution) because they are long-lasting with an average lifespan of about 50 years. In comparison to galvanized steel or polybutylene pipes, copper pipes are more resistant to corrosion. However, as they age, pinhole leaks may start appearing. These pinhole leaks can be repaired by either cutting out the section of pipe with the pinhole and soldering new pipe, or, if the pinhole is on a pipe that is under the floor (commonly referred to as a slab leak), most homeowners choose to abandon the entire line underground and then re-route a new single water line above ground through the walls, attic and ceiling.  Most re-routes are performed using PEX Pipe.

Today, PEX (Cross-linked polyethylene) pipe is a common alternative for pressurized water lines indoors and is often found in residences built after 2000. PEX is known for its long-term durability and easy installation; because it is made from flexible material it is easier to maneuver than a rigid pipe.