Do you live in a vintage home, or are you looking to buy an older property? If so, what are the sewer pipes made of? These are crucial questions that can help you make informed decisions and prevent nasty surprises down the line. Even functioning systems may be ticking time bombs waiting to go off when you least expect them. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we understand the complexities of old and new plumbing systems, providing customized solutions to address your specific needs. Our seasoned plumbers in South Jersey can accurately identify common sewer line materials in residential properties, helping you upgrade to a newer, more durable alternative.
Types of Sewer Pipes in Older Homes
Homes built in the mid-1970s and still relying on the original sewer lines may need an upgrade. While it’s common to praise durable systems that stand the test of time, the situation is different for older plumbing pipes. Let’s delve into the common types of sewer pipes in older properties and the materials used to help you determine if your existing lines are potentially hazardous.
Cast Iron
Cast iron is one of the most popular plumbing materials, having been used for centuries to handle residential waste management needs nationwide. Despite the numerous advancements in plumbing, most homes are still stuck in the past. While cast iron is still more robust than most materials, it’s still less sturdy than PEX and other modern piping. Over time, cast iron sewer lines collapse and crack due to corrosion, leading to costly sewer repairs.
Clay
Another popular sewer line material in the 1970s was manufactured clay. Although it may seem odd to use clay for sewer lines, these were highly reliable during the 19th and 20th centuries, especially in areas with clay soil. Just like the latter, clay sewer lines are prone to damage and corrosion over time. If your home was built during this era, then chances are you have clay pipes. Consult a trusted plumbing repair service to inspect your system, identify the material, and recommend the best course of action.
Concrete
This is a similar story to cast iron and clay. Concrete pipes were popular during the 19th and 20th centuries, but they were phased out during the 1970s in favor of PVC and ABS. For properties with concrete sewer lines, regularly scheduled inspections to check for cracks can make a big difference. Even if concrete may seem sturdy, it is not invincible and can succumb to pressure over time.
PVC and ABS
As mentioned, outdated plumbing materials like clay, cast iron, and concrete were phased out in the early 1970s. This initiative was to create room for newer sewer pipes in modern homes. PVC is one of the common options for residential properties, offering enhanced flexibility, robustness, and longevity that older materials can’t compare with. Whether it is shifting soils, severe blockages, or tree root intrusion, PVC and ABS pipes can withstand a lot of abuse. According to manufacturers and industry experts, PVC pipes can last up to 100 years, which is three times that of older materials.
Schedule Professional Sewer Repair & Maintenance
Sewer systems can last for decades with the proper care. With that said, homeowners rarely think about their waste management units until issues arise, and it is too late. You don’t have to wait for emergencies and hazardous scenarios to act. Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing to book an appointment with our experts and enjoy quality sewer services without breaking the bank. As the leading plumbing repair service, we can have a technician at your door in no time, addressing your specific underlying issues before they escalate.
