In the years between 2013 and 2017, one out of every 50 homeowners filed an insurance claim for water damage.

That means at least one person on your block dealt with water damage in the last 5 years.

You might be wondering, is my house plumbing at risk? Am I the next water leak victim?

Luckily, your pipes give off early warning signs that something’s wrong. Read on to learn whether or not you need to repipe your house. 

There’s Low Water Pressure 

Does it take forever for your toilet to refill after a flush? Are you unable to wash your hands while someone’s in the shower? These are both signs of low water pressure.

Several problems can cause low water pressure, but the most common is mineral build-up in your home’s pipes. Mineral build-up clogs the pipes and blocks water flow. The only way to fix it is to replace the pipe. 

Low water pressure can be a daily frustration, so paying for an upgrade will be worth it.

Your Home is More Than 50 Years Old

Galvanized steel, copper, and brass pipes generally last for about 50 years. Well-maintained pipes can last longer, but neglected pipes won’t last as long. 

Given the life expectancy of metal pipes, it’s a good idea to take a look at your plumbing once your home hits the 50-year mark. 

If your home was built in the early 1900s, there’s a chance your house has lead pipes. Lead pipes can pose a serious health risk. Lead poisoning can cause brain and kidney damage.

You can spot lead pipes because they’re flat gray and you can easily scratch the surface with a knife. Unfortunately, you can’t taste or smell lead in water, so you need to have it tested. If you have lead pipes, you need to have them replaced.

The Water From the Faucet Looks Rusty

Rust is a sign that metal is breaking down or corroding. If your water has a brown or reddish tint, there could be a problem with your pipes. 

If your pipes are rusty, you might have bad-tasting tap water and stains in your sink or tub. Rusty water can also stain your clothes when you do laundry.

If you have rusty water, you should contact a residential plumber.

You Notice Leaking Pipes

As the pipes wear out in your home, you’re more prone to leaks. If you notice a pipe that is dripping or appears wet, it’s a warning sign that could lead to a serious leak. 

Water leaks can cause mold, mildew, and expensive home repairs. 

If you have frequent leaks and you call a plumber each time, those costs add up. It might actually be cheaper to have your plumbing repiped.

I Need to Have My House Plumbing Re-piped, Now What? 

Paying for home repairs is never fun. But, repiping your home before you have a major leak can save you a lot of money in the long run. 

Are you wondering, who should I call for my house plumbing needs?

Well, look no further than Louis Mechanical Contractors. We’ve been serving the Baton Rouge area for more than 50 years. If you need plumbing work done, contact us today for a quote.