Rusty and corroded pipes are not something to overlook. Discover the signs of pipe problems and the issues they can cause if not repaired.
Do you know what lurks behind your walls?
It sounds like the introduction to a horror movie, but it’s an honest question each of us should be asking ourselves. The truth is that problems with pipes and plumbing often go unnoticed until they become serious issues.
What, exactly, do you have to fear from corroded and rusty pipes? Here’s what you need to know.
What Makes Pipes Corrode?
Corrosion is the leading cause of pipe leaks and other significant problems. Minerals in the water that passes through your plumbing can build up inside metal pipes and cause corrosion.
Pinhole corrosion is particularly common. As the name suggests, this type of problem causes very small holes in your pipes which leads to small amounts of water leaking out. You might not think you have to worry about a small leak, but over time even a tiny leak causes mold, health problems, high water bills, and destruction inside your walls.
What Causes Pipes to Rust?
The second-leading cause of pipe damage is rust. You might think that the presence of water is what causes plumbing pipes to rust, but that’s not quite the whole story. Rust happens when pipes have extended exposure to high levels of oxygen. Oxygen is carried by the water, and over time all metal pipes will rust and need repair.
Hot water carries more oxygen than cold, so hot water pipes are especially susceptible to rust. The biggest danger is when rust forms on the inside of the pipe, which is impossible for a homeowner to see without a video camera or plumber’s snake.
Detecting Rust and Corrosion
How do you know if you have problems with your pipes? Your first clue will be that your water has an unpleasant taste and odor. You may also see flakes of rust in the water or notice lower water pressure than expected.
Both rust and corrosion can stain clothes and cause things washed or cooked in the water to have an off taste. It’s important to get help right away from a professional who can fix leaking drain pipes in Toronto.
The Dangers of Rusted or Corroded Pipes
The biggest danger of rusted and corroded pipes is that they will cause water leaks, especially in hard-to-see places. This means the water can leak for a very long time before you notice that something is wrong. By then, repairs will be much more costly.
Water damage can make it very hard to sell your home if you’re ready to move. The appearance of your home can be affected, and more importantly your health and the structure of the home is impacted.
Mold causes significant allergic reactions in many people. Mold spores grow quickly when they come into contact with water, and the spores can also pollute the air in your home.
Finally, your home’s structure can be impacted. Water damage causes stains and discoloration along walls, but it can also soak into drywall and cause it to warp and swell. Water from leaking pipes can impact support beams and other important materials. The longer this goes on, the more expensive it is to repair.
If you think you might have rust or corrosion in your pipes, don’t wait to have it addressed. Contact a plumber right away and have an inspection done so you can decide on a course of action.
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