Galvanized Plumbing: Everything You Need to Know

If you reside in a home built before 1960, your plumbing system is likely composed of galvanized steel or iron pipes. While galvanized pipes were once the industry standard, times have changed, and many homeowners are now opting for alternatives like copper. In this article, we will provide a detailed understanding of galvanized pipes, their impact on your home's health and plumbing system, and offer guidance on whether to keep them or consider replacement.

What Are Galvanized Pipes?

In the past, lead pipes were commonly used in plumbing systems, even for drinking water. However, realizing lead's significant public safety hazards led to identifying iron and steel as alternatives. However, these metals present a new challenge—rusting over time.

Enter galvanization. By applying a protective layer of zinc to iron and steel pipes, they gained resistance against the elements. From around 1960, galvanized pipes became the go-to choice in homes worldwide. Unfortunately, this solution wasn't flawless.

Issues With Galvanized Pipes

Over time, it became evident that galvanized pipes had their share of problems. While a newly installed network of galvanized steel plumbing generally functions smoothly, several issues arise after 30 or 40 years:

Rust buildup

Galvanized pipes are susceptible to corrosion and rust as the protective zinc layer gradually corrodes.

Low pressure and leaks

Homes with galvanized pipes may experience water pressure problems, leaks, or even pipe bursts. Pipe leaks often occur at the joints, typically hidden behind walls, where water and moisture accumulation can go unnoticed for extended periods. This can lead to structural damage, the growth of toxic mold, and expensive repairs.

Potential health risks

The zinc layer in galvanized pipes often contains impurities like lead or other heavy metals. Lab tests have revealed that galvanized pipes can have up to 10 times the amount of lead deemed hazardous by the Environmental Protection Agency. Once corrosion sets in, these contaminants can enter your drinking water.

Rust-colored water

When the interior of galvanized pipes corrodes enough, iron particles can infiltrate the water supply, causing it to appear rusty brown.

Determining if You Have Galvanized Pipes

You don't need to sift through building records to determine if your home has galvanized pipes. Scratch an exposed area of the pipe with a nickel or screwdriver to reveal its true color. If it resembles a penny, you have copper piping. You likely have galvanized steel or iron pipes if the pipe appears metallic gray.

Cleaning Galvanized Pipes

A complete cleaning of your entire plumbing network may be too extensive for a DIY project. However, you can clean the exterior of galvanized steel pipes using a water and laundry detergent solution or distilled white vinegar. If you're comfortable shutting off your water main, bleeding your pipes, and removing pipe joints, you can clean smaller sections by soaking them in vinegar. However, if you're dealing with network-wide rust and corrosion buildup, the best long-term solution is to replace your plumbing network with more reliable, modern piping.

Should Galvanized Pipes Be Replaced?

Generally, upgrading from galvanized pipes to new copper or PEX pipes is highly recommended. While the initial cost may be higher, the long-term benefits far outweigh the expense. Replacing old pipes significantly reduces the risk of costly leaks, pipe bursts, and water damage. Moreover, undetected leaks can lead to substantial repair bills and wasted water, driving up utility expenses.

Conclusion

To conclude, if your home is equipped with galvanized pipes, it is important to consider an upgrade. Replacing them with copper pipes ensures the longevity and reliability of your plumbing system, while potentially saving you significant costs in the future. While minor maintenance can provide temporary relief, planning for a complete replacement is advisable to safeguard your home and investment for years to come.

For professional assistance with your plumbing upgrade, our team at We Do Repipes Inc. is here to help. Contact us today for a detailed assessment and expert guidance tailored to your specific needs.