26yr old Galvanized Pipe
Newer homes and older homes have one thing in common, the plumbing. Most people when purchasing either a new or old home always ask, or in some way think about the plumbing. When purchasing your new home be aware of how the toilets drain, presence or absence of ceiling or floor stains, and the age and overall condition of the pipes.
The typical types of plumbing pipes:
Waste lines
- Cast Iron—Prone to rust
- PVC (poly vinyl chloride)—Prone to rupture short lifespan as compared to other materials
- Chromed Brass (used for exposed drains and traps), beautification
- Chromed Copper–Beautification
- Galvanized Iron—prone to rust lifespan of about 25-30yrs.
- Copper— Susceptible to pinholes and prone to bust lifespan of about 30yrs
- CPVC (chlorinated poly vinyl chloride)—Inexpensive rigid plastic
- PEX (cross-linked polyethylene)—withstands temps from below 32degrees to 200 degrees Fahrenheit and also resists corrosion.
Plumbing age and type is sometimes easily discerned by the age of the structure. Typically homes built in the 1980’s had PVC plumbing installed, but PVC has the shortest lifespan, so more than likely an owner along the way has changed the plumbing to something more durable, such as galvanized or cooper piping. But you should still ask, and your home inspector should also tell you, its part of their report.
When considering a home purchase look for stains and wet spots in the corner of the ceilings, and also look a little lower, about 1-2 inches from the floor boards. Stains in the ceilings may mean the problem was corrected but any wet spot(s) means the problem is not only still present but is worsening. If you notice wet spots near the floor then a pipe(s) have damage and need to be replaced, the bigger the water stain the worse the problem can become.
Flush the toilets, if the water is off, bring a gallon of water to aid in the flushing of the toilets. A toilet flushing can tell you the flow of the pipes; some pipes are louder than others and look for leaks around the toilet. You may be able to hear if pipes are missing, something not too uncommon in a foreclosure which has been sitting empty for a while.
If you are looking for your new home in the winter, and it snows were you are looking, make sure the toilets have been winterized. Most homes will have signage on the toilet letting everyone know it has been winterized, which is basically adding antifreeze, yes the kind which goes into your car.
If the toilets have not been winterized in a cold or snow climate, do not flush the toilets or add a gallon to flush, this could cause the plumbing to rupture causing a house full of damage.
So remember that PVC, copper and galvanized plumbing are the most widely used at this time but there are other types of plumbing materials also in use. Look for wet spots and water damage stains around the floor boards and in the corners of the ceilings. Only pipes prone to rust will leave a red stain on a wall or ceiling if leaking or has leaked. Also take note of peeling paint in the corners which can be indicative of moisture damage.
Remember, just because there is plumbing damage or faultiness, does not mean the problem cannot be corrected. It is better to be aware of any possible damage before finalizing a purchase price.
Happy home hunting.
Affordable Housing 