Breathing in that beautiful, salty Charleston air is a delight to tourists and natives alike. It's what's made our little city such a charming destination over the years. But before you make "Salt air, don't care" the caption on your next social media post, our Charleston plumbers want to point out something very important to you: salt air is something you should care about in terms of your home's plumbing system. Charleston's coastal air contains a high volume of chlorides that are extremely corrosive to metal and aging pipes.
But the truth is, living near the coast in Charleston means that you have to deal with salt air. That's why Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Greater Charleston is here to equip you with professional advice on how to prevent pipe corrosion and help keep your plumbing system in optimal condition. With a little help from our professional plumbers, you will be able to succeed in preventing pipe corrosion. Charleston, SC home and business owners, give us a call today to find out more.
The Effects of Salt Air on Pipes in Charleston
If you've had a plumbing service pertaining to old pipes or damaged pipes before, you have probably heard of pipe corrosion. Corrosion is a natural process that occurs when metal pipes react with water and other environmental substances (like salt air), which can cause pipes to deteriorate. Some signs that indicate you have corroded pipes include discolored water, low water pressure, frequent leaks, clogs, and noisy pipes. As you can imagine, these plumbing issues can cause a major disruption to your daily routine. For pipes that have become corroded, an expert piping and repiping service is required.
But what are the effects of salt air on pipes in Charleston, and how does it play into preventing pipe corrosion? Charleston, SC has air that contains chlorides. Combine that with the high humidity, which keeps the pipes damp, and you create the perfect chemical reaction that accelerates the corrosion process in metal pipes. Outdated materials like iron and galvanized steel are particularly vulnerable to corrosion, as the chloride ions from salty air break down their oxide layer, which is a protective barrier against rust.
Although copper pipes are resistant to corrosion, they can still be vulnerable to salt-induced corrosion, creating leaks that can cause water damage in your home. That's why experienced plumbers say that the best course of action for homeowners in coastal areas like Charleston is to invest in whole-house repiping. Changing metal and copper pipes for plastic materials such as, PVC or PEX pipes, will save you money in the long run and be a major factor in preventing pipe corrosion in Charleston, SC.
The Importance of Pipe Lining
So, we've learned thus far that certain pipe materials are prone to corrosion, and the benefits of changing out metal pipes for plastic ones in a coastal town like Charleston. However, there's another significant factor in preventing pipe corrosion: pipe lining. If you've had a sewer line repair or replacement before, you've witnessed how incredible this technique is for repairing pipes. But pipe lining is also beneficial in preventing pipe corrosion. Charleston, SC property owners can think of pipe lining as a way to extend the lifespan of their plumbing system.
Applying an epoxy coating to the interior of plumbing pipes creates an impenetrable barrier against moisture and salt. It offers a long-lasting and reliable solution, ensuring the health of your plumbing system remains intact for years to come. And, the best part? Plumbing experts can do it without having to dig into your landscaping. With our trenchless technology, we can seamlessly line your pipes with a new, durable interior that enhances water flow and prevents future pipe issues.
Treating Your Water
Your water quality also plays a huge role in preventing pipe corrosion. Charleston, SC homeowners should adjust their water's pH levels to decrease acidity, which can cause pipes to deteriorate faster. Regularly testing your water quality can help identify any imbalances that need to be addressed immediately. You can also implement water treatment solutions to prolong the lifespan of your plumbing system. While treating your water isn't the ultimate solution to preventing pipe corrosion, it can significantly reduce the risks associated with corrosive elements.
Regular Inspections and Routine Maintenance
The best way to stay on top of potential plumbing problems is routine maintenance and regular inspections. When it comes to your Charleston home's plumbing pipes, it's essential to regularly check for signs of corrosion, especially if you don't have plastic piping.
There are several clear signs of pipe corrosion; however, there are also very subtle signs of corrosion. For example, a slow drop in water pressure can indicate underlying issues that may not be immediately visible. Or, a change in the clarity or color of water might suggest that corrosion is taking place within your pipes. Plumbing needs to be inspected regularly, and with the help of advanced plumbing technology, this is a simple part of preventing pipe corrosion. Charleston, SC homeowners need only give us a call, and we can utilize a range of effective services to ensure plumbing systems stay in optimal health. Let's take a look:
- Plumbing video technology: Our plumbing video technology is a key instrument in many of our plumbing services. A tiny camera on a thin wire is fed down deep into the depths of your plumbing system to capture real-time footage of the condition of your pipes. With regular video inspections, our plumbers can catch potential issues with your plumbing before they escalate into emergencies, making it a key player in protecting your plumbing from salt in Charleston.
- Leak detection: We utilize advanced leak detection during leak repair. Pipes that are corroded are prone to leaks, and most of the time, they are hidden, so you can't even tell they are present in the first place. With our state-of-the-art equipment, we can pinpoint the location of leaks and determine their impact on pipe corrosion.
Prevention of Pipe Corrosion the Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Greater Charleston Way!
If anybody knows the effects of salt air on your plumbing pipes and fixtures, it's Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Greater Charleston. That's why we offer a comprehensive range of plumbing services dedicated to preventing pipe corrosion. Charleston, SC homeowners can contact us today to learn more about whole-home repiping, water treatment, pipe lining, and our preventative maintenance services to ensure their home is protected from corrosion. With the help of our plumbers, you can go back to your "salt air, don't care” attitude.
