Top 5 Plumbing Problems in Old Homes

Most old houses have a certain charm and character that isn't common in modern construction. However, behind the fancy plaster walls and crown molding, these houses may conceal several issues, especially related to plumbing. Whether you live in an old home or are moving into one, here are common plumbing issues to look out for.

1. Pipe Bellies

A house may undergo gradual movement or shift over time. When that happens, the pipes underneath begin to shift downloads, creating a slope or 'belly.' The slope obstructs water flow and makes pools that collect sediments or waste. If ignored, pipe bellies can eventually cause stoppages or leaks.

Some warning indicators of pipe bellies are slow drains, nasty smells, frequent back-ups, and lush green patches in your yard. These issues can make your home uninhabitable so hire a professional plumber as soon as possible to diagnose pipe bellies and perform the necessary repairs or replacements.

2. Defective Piping

If your house is over 30 years old, chances are high, some piping materials used are defective. This is especially possible if there have been no piping renovations in the last few years. If you're moving into an old home, you can have expert plumbers inspect the entire system to be sure.

Some defective pipe materials common in old homes include:

• Lead

Traditionally, lead was a popular piping material for main water lines and sewer lines. However, in 1986, it was banned for use after discoveries that lead is highly toxic and can cause health, physical, and mental development issues, especially in children.

• Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel is a common water line piping material in houses built before the 1960s. Unfortunately, it's highly corrosive and can contaminate drinking water with high levels of rust.

• Polybutylene

Polybutylene came on the scene in the 1970s and is popular in homes built in the 1980s. Unfortunately, these pipes don't react well with chemicals in public water systems, causing them to crack prematurely. Overall, if your home has any of these piping materials, seek professional re-piping services, so your home can conform to modern safety standards.

3. Bad Repairs

An old home has had multiple plumbing repairs over the years. Unfortunately, you may not know who did those repairs. Perhaps the previous owners or amateur plumbers, instead of professional plumbers, did some repairs. Such repairs may cause additional problems like unsecured pipes, leaks, and faulty water heaters.

Bad repairs can be dangerous and costly. Hence, before buying an old house, it's good to have an expert plumber inspect the entire plumbing system to determine if any issues need fixing.

4. Faulty Sewer Lines

Sewer lines in older homes built before modern appliances (dishwashers, garbage disposals, and toilets) see heavy use, making them more susceptible to failure. They may also malfunction due to root intrusion, clogs, and sediment build-up. Often, other issues like slow drains and sewage backups accompany faulty sewer lines. Thankfully, you can get your sewer system back up and running through professional sewer line repair services.

5. Drain Issues

With 30-plus years of soaps, scum, food particles, and dirty water passing through your old home's drains, clogs are likely to appear at some point. Some warning indicators of clogs are slow drainage, water backups in your sinks or toilet, and unpleasant odors from your drains. Reputable plumbers use specialized torches and equipment to inspect the entire drain system and determine where the clog is before eliminating it.

If you have seen any of these plumbing issues in your home or are concerned about the state of your plumbing system, reach out to Michigan Plumbing today. We work on both old and new plumbing systems and offer 24-hour emergency services.