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Rust and Leaks in Galvanized Pipes

Jennifer LaFleur • September 24, 2020

What is Galvanized Pipe?

Galvanized pipes are steel pipes that have a protective zinc coating on them making them grey in color. Galvanized pipes were commonly used in homes that were built from 713-253-4810. When galvanized pipe was invented it was an superior alternative to lead pipe for water supply lines. In the 50’s – 80’s it was not known that this type of pipe would rust creating potential flooding in the homes it was installed in.

What do Galvanized Pipes look like?

Is what Galvanized Pipe looks like when you buy it brand new from the store. Is what Galvanized Pipe looks like if used for various items around the house that do not require water to run through it. Is what Galvanized Pipe looks like when it starts to age. Usually in this application it is in a wall and/or your attic. Is what Galvanized Pipe looks like after time as it is rusting from the inside out. Eventually that rust will build up so much it will affect the water flow to various plumbing fixtures, can cause the color of the water to be yellowish to brownish and can eventually rust completely through to the outside of the pipe creating a hole in the pipe. Is what Galvanized Pipe looks like from the outside of the pipe once it has started corroding.

Is a closer view of a Galvanized Pipe that has rusted on the inside. Are Galvanized Pipes Bad? Galvanized Pipes can be bad when they are used in water applications. Since they rust from the inside out they can obtain holes and over time rupture creating constant flowing water in a home. These floods are almost always very destructive and cause extensive property damage. It is best to replace any existing Galvanized

Pipes to prevent this type of damage to your home/investment.

How long do Galvanized Pipes last?

Each Galvanized Pipe application is different. They can last several years to several decades. The one known thing about Galvanized Pipe is when it is used in water applications it rusts. When the pipes rust from the inside out it is not a matter of IF it will cause a leak it is a matter of WHEN it will cause a leak. Today’s homes are built with a product called PEX (a form of polyethylene) this product is flexible, expands

and contracts and makes it superior to Galvanized as it does not rust, will not freeze and can withstand extreme heat in attic applications.

How do I go about replacing my Galvanized Pipes?

We recommend getting a estimate for the replacement. Replacing all of the Galvanized Pipes in your home can be rather expensive. It is best to budget for these items but knowing a ball park figure ahead of time will allow you to plan accordingly. Repipes can cost as little as $2,713-253-4810 and can go all the way up to

$20,713-253-4810+ depending on how many wet areas are in your home. A wet area would be a bathroom, kitchen, laundry room, exterior hose bib, a bar sink, etc. Each of those areas has plumbing to it and would need to have the old pipes removed and the new pipes installed. If you have Galvanized Pipe in your home we would love to give you a quote for replacement. In addition, we are able to offer financing for these large costly jobs. If you want more information about our financing options please contact the office today.

Remember, if you have a plumbing Obstacle, be sure to give us a call!

Have a great day,

Paul and Dorinda Obsta

713-253-4810

obstaplumbinginc.com

RMP-39473

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