To many people, the phrase out of sight, out of mind, relates to all different aspects of their life - including what goes on behind the walls of their home. Did you know you not only have a maze of pipes running through your home, but they are also made of different materials?
Knowing more details about the inner workings of your home can help you be a more educated home owner and have a better idea of what you need to do when issues arise. Learn more about the different kind of pipes in your home:
Water supply pipes: These pipes bring fresh water into your home from the municipal water supply or a private well. The most common materials used for water supply pipes are copper, PVC, and PEX. This pipe is usually at the front of your home and comes up through your foundation.
Drain pipes: These pipes are used to carry wastewater away from your home and into the sewer or septic system. Drain pipes are typically made of PVC or cast iron. Cast iron pipes have been commonly used in plumbing systems for over a hundred years and are known for their durability and strength. However, the lifespan of cast iron pipes can vary depending on various factors such as the quality of the installation, the water chemistry, and the amount of wear and tear they experience over time.
On average, properly installed and maintained cast iron pipes can last up to 50-75 years. However, in some cases, they can last much longer, even up to 100 years or more. It's worth noting that older cast iron pipes may be more susceptible to corrosion and rust, which can shorten their lifespan.
Vent pipes: These pipes allow air to flow in and out of your home's plumbing system, preventing the buildup of dangerous gases like methane. Vent pipes are usually made of PVC or ABS plastic.
Heating pipes: These pipes carry hot water or steam from a boiler to radiators, baseboard heaters, or a radiant heating system. Heating pipes can be made of a variety of materials, including copper, steel, and PEX.
It's worth noting that some homes may have additional types of pipes, such as irrigation pipes for a sprinkler system, or pipes for a geothermal heating and cooling system.
Do you think your home might have an issue with one or more of its pipes? Our team of plumbing experts can come to your home, assess the current issue or situation, and come up with a solution to help resolve the issue. Give us a call today to learn more!