Mr. Rooter Plumbing® provides insight into the causes of pipe corrosion and how you can fix this common issue.
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Pipe corrosion is the last thing any property owner wants to deal with, but it’s a common issue that affects many properties. It occurs when old metal pipes in your plumbing system degrade due to chemical reactions, moisture, and oxygen.
If you don’t take action and replace corroded pipes, you can experience a range of stressful issues like leaks, weakening, contamination, and total plumbing system failure.
Whether you suspect that your pipes are corroded or you want to be prepared should the worst happen, keep reading to learn about the actions you can take.
What Pipes Can Be Affected by Corrosion?
While most modern plumbing systems feature quality materials designed to last the distance, that doesn’t mean they won’t eventually succumb to corrosion. A range of materials can be affected, including:
Cast Iron
Cast iron sewer pipes and water pipes are susceptible to corrosion due to a chemical reaction known as oxidation, which occurs when oxygen, water, and the iron interact. In particular, oxygen and moisture accelerate the rusting process, while factors such as water quality and soil acidity can also contribute to it. If your property has corroded cast iron pipes, it’s not uncommon to experience water discoloration and leaks.
Cast iron pipes were a popular choice for water and sewer systems in the early 19th century, after being imported into the United States in the early 1800s for water and gas systems in large cities. By 1830, cast iron pipes were being used throughout the United States, preferred for their longevity and durability.
In the mid-20th century, ductile iron pipes had replaced cast iron as a more durable alternative, but both were eventually replaced by plastic pipes, like PVC, by the 1970s and 1980s. However, many older buildings still have cast iron pipes to this day.
Galvanized Iron and Steel
Galvanized iron and steel pipes were once the crème de la crème of pipe materials and were installed in millions of homes from the 1920s to the 1960s. They became popular after lead pipes were phased out due to health concerns caused by lead exposure. By the 1960s and 1970s, galvanized iron and steel began to fall out of favor, and copper and plastic (PEX) took over in popularity.
These days, plumbers are frequently called to properties to deal with corroded galvanized pipes. These materials are prone to rust and corrosion and can eventually leak and fail altogether.
Copper
If you’re asking, ‘Do copper pipes corrode?’ the answer is yes, they do. You can end up with corroded copper pipes when you have acidic water. However, compared to steel or iron, copper pipe corrosion is far less common.
Copper’s reduced risk of corrosion compared to other pipe materials was one of the main reasons it became a preferred pipe material in new home builds in the early 1900s. It was also widely adopted for water supply systems from around the 1930s due to convenient installation with soldered fittings, and its ability to withstand temperature fluctuations and high water pressure. It’s believed that over 5.7 million miles of copper tubing have been installed in residential and commercial properties in the United States.
What Causes Corrosion in Pipes?
There is no single cause of pipe corrosion. In fact, multiple factors can contribute to rust in pipes and damaging corrosion.
Water Quality
The quality of water traveling through pipes can contribute to corrosion. For example, water with low pH levels is corrosive to a range of pipe materials, including copper. If the water in your area has high oxygen content, it, too, can cause rust and corrosion.
Many people even experience corrosion in their pipes due to having hard water with high levels of minerals like magnesium and calcium. These minerals can cause scale buildup that speeds up corrosion. If there are chemicals in water, including introduced chemicals like drain cleaners, they can react with certain pipe materials and cause corrosion.
Microbial Activity
Believe it or not, even bacteria can see you needing to access corroded pipe repair services before long. Iron and sulfate bacteria contribute to corrosion through a process called microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC). This is when microorganisms attach to surfaces and form biofilms, accelerating the corrosion process.
Water Temperature and Flow
Don’t underestimate the effect that water temperature and flow rates can have on your pipes. High water temperatures can accelerate water corrosion, especially when combined with other factors, such as high oxygen levels in the water. If you have high water flow rates in your area, they can also worsen corrosion when it has started to take hold.
How to Tell You Have Corroded Pipes
Several signs can point to the possibility that you have corroded pipes on your property, including:
- Discolored brown or rust-colored water
- Low water pressure
- Pipe leaks - look for water damage in floors, walls, and ceilings
- Unpleasant metallic tastes and smells
- Noisy pipes - whistling, banging, and rattling sounds
- Rust, pitting, and flaking
- Water is slow to drain
- Higher water bills
How to Fix Corroded Pipes
As soon as you suspect pipe corrosion, contact a licensed and insured plumber for advice. They can inspect your plumbing system and use tools and technology, such as water tests and video inspections, to confirm what you already suspect. Most trusted plumbers will take these steps to fix your corroded pipes:
2. Replace the Damaged Areas
After learning the extent of the pipe corrosion through a thorough inspection, your plumber will likely say the best solution is replacing the damaged pipes as soon as possible.
If you’re only experiencing minor corrosion, they may suggest spot fixes. This involves cutting and replacing sections of your pipe. If the corrosion issue is widespread, they may recommend repiping the entire house.
3. Perform Pipe Lining or Pipe Coating
In some situations, pipe lining or pipe coating can be possible. This is where a plumber can restore pipe surfaces with epoxy coatings, rather than replacing pipes. This could be a worthwhile option if your pipes only have minor corrosion, cracks, or small punctures.
4. Consider a Water Treatment System
If water quality has caused your pipe corrosion, consider a water treatment system. Your chosen plumber may recommend a reverse osmosis system or a water softener.
5. Upgrade Pipe Materials
Some pipe materials are more resistant to corrosion than others. Ask a trusted plumber about PEX or CPVC. A range of high-quality pipe materials is available to suit various needs and properties.
Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing® for Help with Corroded Pipes
If you suspect you have corroded pipes, it’s time to take action. Contact your locally owned and operated Mr. Rooter Plumbing® for assistance. We can investigate, provide advice, and perform corroded pipe repair and replacement services. Call us today.
