If you’re a homeowner, can you remember how excited you were moving into your first home? You probably experienced some stress, anxiety, and even excitement during the process. You couldn’t wait to make that old house a home. Finally, the paperwork is complete, and you finally agree to terms. Now it’s time for the home inspection. The home inspection is usually the buyer’s responsibility. Purchasing a home is probably the biggest purchase you have ever made in your life. You must check out the property thoroughly, including a complete inspection of your pipes and sewer main. Some cities even advise having a lateral sewer line inspection; that’s where your property meets the city’s mainline.
Unlock Peace of Mind With A Thorough Plumbing Inspection From Big B’s Plumbing
Buying an older home can be an exciting venture, filled with charm and character that newer houses often lack. However, with this character comes a unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to the plumbing system. It’s critical to have a thorough plumbing inspection when purchasing an older home, and here’s why:
Identifying Hidden Issues:
Older homes often harbor hidden plumbing issues. From rusty pipes to outdated fixtures, these problems can become costly if not identified and addressed promptly. A comprehensive plumbing inspection by Big B’s Plumbing can help you uncover these hidden challenges before they become significant headaches.
Preventing Future Expenses:
While older homes often come with appealing price tags, they can also bring unexpected costs if the plumbing system isn’t in good shape. You can avoid surprising and potentially costly future repairs by getting a thorough inspection from Big B’s Plumbing.
Improving Safety:
Plumbing issues aren’t just about convenience and cost; they can also impact the safety of your home. For instance, lead pipes, which are common in older homes, can pose serious health risks. A plumbing inspection can identify such safety hazards, allowing you to address them appropriately.
Assessing Sewer Line Condition:
In older homes, sewer lines can be a source of concern. Over the years, these lines can suffer from wear, tree root intrusion, and other issues. A professional plumbing inspection will assess the condition of your sewer lines, providing invaluable insights and peace of mind.
Helping with Negotiation:
The findings from a plumbing inspection can also play a pivotal role during negotiations. If there are significant plumbing issues, you can request that the seller make the necessary repairs or adjust the asking price accordingly.
At Big B’s Plumbing, we specialize in comprehensive plumbing inspections for older homes. Our team of professionals has the skills, experience, and tools to provide a detailed assessment of your potential home’s plumbing system, helping you make an informed buying decision. Trust Big B’s Plumbing to ensure your older dream home doesn’t become a plumbing nightmare.
Common Plumbing Issues That May Occur In Older Homes
While full of character and charm, older homes can often harbor various plumbing issues due to outdated systems, years of wear and tear, and sometimes less-than-optimal maintenance. Here are some of the more common plumbing problems that can arise in older homes and why they need addressing:
1. Galvanized Pipes:
Many older homes have galvanized pipes, which are made of steel coated in zinc. Unfortunately, over time, these pipes can rust and corrode from the inside, leading to reduced water pressure, water discoloration, and even leaks. Replacing galvanized pipes with modern materials like copper or PEX can prevent these issues and improve your home’s water quality and flow.
2. Lead Pipes or Solder:
Lead was commonly used in plumbing systems of homes built before the 1980s. Exposure to lead is hazardous and can lead to serious health problems, especially in children. If your home has lead pipes or solder, it’s crucial to replace them to ensure the safety of your household’s drinking water.
3. Outdated Fixtures and Appliances:
Older fixtures and appliances may not only be less efficient but can also be more prone to leaks and malfunctions. Upgrading to modern, energy-efficient models can save you money on your utility bills and reduce the risk of water damage from leaks.
4. Sewer Line Problems:
Over the years, sewer lines can suffer from various issues, including tree root intrusion, the buildup of waste, or simple wear and tear. These problems can lead to sewage backups or slow drains. Therefore, a sewer line inspection and possible replacement or repair are essential to prevent these unpleasant and potentially costly problems.
5. Inadequate or Outdated Plumbing Systems:
Some older homes might need a plumbing system that can cope with modern usage demands. For example, you might experience low water pressure, or the system might not be able to serve multiple fixtures at once. Upgrading your system can improve its functionality and efficiency.
6. Hidden Leaks:
Over time, pipes can develop small leaks that might go unnoticed. These can lead to water damage, mold growth, and increased water bills. Detecting and repairing hidden leaks can protect your home’s structure and your health.
While older homes can often come with plumbing issues, these are not insurmountable. With a thorough inspection and the help of professionals like those at Big B’s Plumbing, you can address these issues and keep the charm of your older home without the worry of underlying plumbing problems.
Have Your Plumbing Inspected For Polybutylene Piping, “PB”
There are three things a home buyer needs to be concerned with when buying an old home. The first concern is defective pipes inclined to fail, such as polybutylene pipe, “PB.” The pipes are no longer manufactured nor rated for installation by the California building code.
While less popular in California, some states like Florida used the pipe in homes between 1978 through 1995. By the mid-80s, lawsuits started popping up, claiming millions of dollars in damage. Some even considered it “the pipe of the future” because it was cheaper and easier to install. In addition, it made home repiping easier for plumbing contractors. Many homeowners were part of a class-action lawsuit, and the maker of the pipes reached a settlement for just under a billion dollars, so have your plumbing inspected.
Every Fixture, Appliance, Pipe, And Fitting Has A Life Span
The second concern is the pipes that have reached their life expectancy. Every fixture, appliance, pipe, and fitting has a life span. For some, it may be a minor replacement cost, like faucets, pressure valves, and a toilet. They are a little to replace. But then there are those big-ticket costs; for example, the existing pipes may be on their way out. Depending on the age of the home that you may be purchasing, you may have a sewer line that’s ready for a replacement. If you want to make a home purchase without regret, then have your plumbing inspected by a licensed plumbing contractor.
Home Water Supply Piping
- PEX – 40-50 years
- Galvanized Steel pipes- 40 to 60 years
- Copper piping – 40 to 60 years
- CPVC and PVC – 40 to 50 years
Drain Piping
- Copper – 40 to 60 years
- PVC – 50 to 70 years
- Cast Iron – 50 to 65 years
- Galvanized Steel – 40 to 60 years
Plumbing Fixtures
- Faucets – 10 to 15 years
- Water Heaters – 10 to 20 years
- Shut-off Valves – 20 years
- Sinks, Tubs, Toilets – 40 to 80 years
A Botched Plumbing Job Is Rarely That Of A Licensed Contractor
The third concern is previous repairs completed by a do-it-yourselfer or an unlicensed handyman. Let me clarify something: a handyperson is an honorable trade, and most handymen and women do excellent work. But what you get from a licensed plumber is someone who understands the plumbing codes in their area. Additionally, you are getting someone who has completed years of training and will protect their license at all costs. A botched plumbing job is rarely that of a licensed contractor but a do-it-yourselfer or an unlicensed handyperson.
Give Yourself Peace Of Mind When Purchasing An Old Home
Take the risk out of buying an older home. If you need a licensed plumbing contractor to have your plumbing inspected, call the experts at Big B’s Plumbing
