Problems That Lead to Pipe Replacement

Plumbing pipes are designed to last quite a long time, some of them even up to a century. However, there are a number of different problems that can lead to early pipe replacement. If you want to keep your plumbing pipes in the best possible condition, you need to be aware of these problems. Let’s take a look at some of the issues that can lead to pipe replacement, and what you can do about it.

Corrosion

The majority of plumbing pipes in today’s homes are made of copper, which is used because of its resistance to rust. Though it doesn’t degrade as easily as iron, copper is still susceptible to different kinds of corrosion. Chlorine and formaldehyde particles in the air and soil react poorly with copper, eating into it and weakening it. This is called pitted corrosion when chlorine causes it, and formicary corrosion when formaldehyde causes it. Both can cause a necessity of pipe replacement if they are sufficiently advanced.

Lime Scale

Lime scale is a type of mineral buildup caused by hard water flowing through the plumbing system over a long period of time. This will restrict the flow of water through the pipe, making the plumbing system less efficient. If the lime scale isn’t caught early enough, it will harden and become impossible to remove without ruining the pipe. At that point, the only way to restore full plumbing functions will be to replace the pipe.

The best way to deal with these issues is to have your plumbing system professionally checked at least once a year. Your plumber will be able to identify any of these issues, usually through video pipe inspection, and recommend appropriate measures for fixing them.

Bell Plumbing and Heating offers comprehensive plumbing repair services throughout Denver, CO. Call today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert plumbers.