When It’s Time For a Repipe
According to Charlotte plumbing company experts, if your building is experiencing multiple plumbing problems, it may be time for a repipe. This is usually necessary when the old plumbing is too worn out to perform essential functions. The most obvious sign that your building needs a repipe is constant leakage. The problem could occur in multiple areas of your home, causing water damage. You may also notice that your water is brown from rusty pipes.
Clogged pipes
When a plumbing system is clogged, standing water can fill the pipes, creating a hazard. The resulting pooling of water can damage the surrounding area and increase internal water pressure, which can eventually cause the pipes to burst. It’s also possible for a clogged pipe to lead to a sewage backup. To prevent this, homeowners should regularly clean their gutters and drains.
Another common sign of clogged pipes is foul-smelling water. This can be caused by hair and soap that collect in the lines. You should install a guard on the drain to prevent hair from getting into the pipes. In addition, traditional soaps contain fat and grease, which combine with the minerals in the water and create soap scum. Leaving soap scum untreated can eat away at the pipes and eventually cause a clog.
Pipe bursts
Pipe bursts can be very frustrating, but they can also be a valuable learning experience for homeowners. If you cannot stop the water supply immediately, you can do several things to mitigate further damage. First, you must turn off the main water valve, typically found in the basement near the water heater. Then, open all cupboard and vanity doors to allow fresh air in. The same applies to pipes that surround water fixtures.
If you notice a pool of water on the floor or walls, the pipe may have burst. Small puddles indicate a leak, but large pools on several surfaces signify a pipe burst. These pools will often move across walls as the water level rises, and the pipe leaks until the supply is cut.
Pipe aging
Several factors affect the longevity of piping systems in a home. For instance, the materials used in the pipe system can age and cause it to leak or burst. This can lead to deteriorating water pressure in the design and may result in water damage. If you have older pipes, you should consider replacing them. The new lines will be more secure and will not leak.
If you have noticed leaks in your home, you should hire a professional for leak detection and repairs. Depending on the extent of damage, a leaky faucet, toilet, or other plumbing fixture may need to be replaced. Alternatively, you may need a repipe if you have a too old system with many blockages and leaks.
Epoxy pipe lining
Epoxy pipe lining can fix corroded copper pipes. The process is seamless and requires no fittings or special tools to install. However, if the line is difficult to access, there may be better options than this one. In that case, a Charlotte plumbing company should consider pipe bursting or excavation as an alternative.
An epoxy pipe lining solution consists of a base and hardener. When mixed, it forms a robust and durable plastic. The resin is then poured into a fabric liner cut to the correct length. The epoxy hardens in about 60 minutes.
As an alternative to replacement, epoxy pipe lining can repair damaged pipes and prevent future damage. It is an effective solution for blockages and leaks and can repair existing lines. Copper piping, a popular material for plumbing, is prone to corrode and leak over time.
Copper pipe replacement
While copper pipes are known for their durability, they also need replacement when they develop pinhole leaks. This is because copper pipes corrode over time. Moreover, the inside lining of copper pipes becomes weak with age. Therefore, a repipe is the most economical option for older homes. Nevertheless, installing new lines is more complex than you might think.
If your pipes are damaged due to a leak, you should first determine where the leak is. If it is hidden behind drywall, you should turn off the water supply to the entire house before replacing the pipes. Afterward, cut the leaky line section and replace it with a new one. Finally, insert a cotton rag into the hole to prevent water from dripping.