When you think of old homes, images of antiquated plumbing and outdated wiring probably come to mind. However, those are symptoms of more widespread problems. In today’s world, most people have showers, baths, toilets, sinks, and laundry facilities that all work together as one unit. But in previous generations, this wasn’t the case. Homes then were smaller and lacked central plumbing systems. These age-old concepts are still relevant when thinking about old homes. But they also present a new set of challenges that a homeowner needs to consider before tearing down the wall and redoing the entire house. Here are a few of the most common plumbing issues you might come across in an older home.
Sewer Line Issues
These are the most common problems that people in older homes have. The pipes that carry sewage and water in older homes are generally plastic. Plastic can rust, crack, and break. In addition, it also causes sewer line belly, which occurs as a result of soil erosion, foundation settlement, or other natural factors. It is possible that you will need to repair the sewer line in your home at some point as it gets even older. This can be a costly repair, but is necessary for the safety of your home.
Drain Problems
Drain problems are another common problem in older homes. It happens when the drain pipes become clogged with tree roots, grease, or other debris. When this happens, water can’t flow properly, and the pipes can burst. You will need to call a professional plumber to unclog your drains. If the clog has been building up for a while, you likely won’t be able to deal with it on your own through supplies you can buy at a hardware store.
Pipes and Faucets
Pipes and faucets are another common problem in older homes. The pipes in your home are made of plastic and can be prone to cracks, leaks, or breaks. In addition, the faucet handles on older faucets are often very hard to turn and tend to break. Many older faucets also leak because the rubber O-rings are old and worn out.
Sink Problems
The sinks in older homes are also prone to problems. The problem with sinks is that they tend to leak due to the mineral deposits in the water pipes. It can cause a sink to be hard to flush or even leak water through the faucet. You will eventually need to replace the sinks in your kitchen and bathrooms.
Plumbing Leaks
Leaks can happen in any plumbing, but they’re especially common in older homes because of the plumbing age and the materials’ quality. In addition, many older homes have poorly insulated pipes and rusted and corroded, which can cause leaks in the pipes. Check for any signs of leaks early on because they can eventually lead to mold growth.
Sump Pumps
Sump pumps are another common plumbing problem in older homes. If you’re replacing them, make sure to use a plastic or metal pump that doesn’t have any exposed metal parts. If you are new to owning a sump pump, you’ll also want to remember that they need to be cleaned out annually. Make an appointment with a professional to keep yours clean and maintained.
It’s essential for you to find out about the plumbing system in an older home. Understand the risks associated with the plumbing in an older home and know what issues to look for. If you notice any of the issues mentioned above, reach out to a professional, like The Plumbing Doctor, for help.
