1950 pipes galvanized steel must i replace them
People who own homes crafted before 1950 have good grounds to suspect they are equipped with water pipes made of galvanized steel. While these pipes can offer years of stability, rust or other types of corrosion may start to manifest with time. If this is the case, it would be a wise move to think about replacing them with something newer.
At the turn of the 20th century, galvanized steel pipes began appearing in homes, further signaling a leap forward in plumbing. Comparatively, iron pipes that had been previously used were prone to rusting. To ensure corrosion-resistance, galvanized steel pipes are designed with a thin layer of zinc covering the steel exterior. This layer safeguards the underlying material, thereby ensuring that the pipe can remain in better condition for longer.
Ultimately, the protective zinc film that coats the steel can erode away, leaving it vulnerable to oxidation. When this occurs, the damage done to the steel can be significant and lead to deplorable damage such as leaks, and other woes.
Examining the exterior of your pipes can help determine if they are comprised of galvanized steel. Signs of galvanized steel are a rust-tinged, muted gray hue that can readily be identified by the observant eye.
If corrosion has been a worry with your galvanized steel pipes, there are steps you can take to safeguard them. Have the water tested for pH, as highly acidic levels can accelerate the deterioration of your piping material. A water softener could also be beneficial, as the minerals it removes can lead to the build-up of corroded deposits. In this way, you can significantly prolong the life of your pipes.
Your galvanized steel pipes may appear solid and strong, but they are not impervious to corrosion. Once you observe the signs of deterioration, it is essential to take action and find a replacement for your plumbing system before the damage worsens. Ignorance of this issue can grimly affect the infrastructure in your home.
It can be difficult to ascertain whether or not your galvanized steel pipes need to be replaced. However, cost to replace galvanized pipes can provide the assurance and details you need. A thorough inspection will tell you conclusively if your pipes are in need of an upgrade and also give you an idea of the expenditure involved.