Guest Post - How do I know if my cast iron pipe is bad?

Thanks to Chris Arthur-Collins for sharing their work on Unsplash. and Milbur Plumbing.

To get to the main reason behind any plumbing issue is not that simple. Many times, something as little as a loosened fixture or clogging can cause trouble such as leaks or less water pressure. On the other hand, mold and warped flooring can be a sign of some severe damage to your basic plumbing structure like the cast iron pipes.

Cast iron pipes were used in plumbing before PVC pipes were introduced. Houses built in the 20th century were constructed using them. 

Cast iron was considered durable, claiming to last for 100 years, and strong enough to endure high pressure. It was also a material of choice because it subdued the sound of flowing water efficiently.

The life span of plumbing pipes made of cast iron is now ending, causing various issues. The plumber has to be called almost every other day, which is quite annoying. As the structural deformities affect the plumbing system overall, these pipes need to be replaced with better alternatives.

Here is a guide to identifying whether the issues you are facing are caused by your cast iron pipes that have gone bad. Some of these signs may cause significant risks for your home, so quickly check and seek reliable plumbing services in your area. 

1. Cracks in the walls

Cracks appearing in the walls indicate that pipes behind them are damaged and leaking. This is a warning sign as walls are the structural foundation of a home, and any damage in them can potentially cause a collapse if it goes unnoticed for an extended period.

2. Sagging patches in the garden or pavement

Water or sewage pooling beneath the garden or where the plumbing lines run can cause unusual indentations in that area. The sagging patches in the garden, primarily, are caused by the dissipated soil. Call the plumbing service right away if you notice any unexplained indentations.

3. Warped flooring

In homes where the flooring is wooden, standing water beneath it can cause the floor to warp. If you notice floor warping, understand that the cast iron pipe present beneath that flooring is probably damaged beyond repair. A plumbing service with leak detection equipment can help you identify if damaged pipes are the cause of your floor damage.

4. Mold 

Constant leakage from the plumbing pipes can trigger mold production. 

Little do you know, mold can cause severe health issues, especially in family members who have asthma and other respiratory problems. Therefore it is the sanest thing to get rid of it by early problem detection and solution, replacing your outdated cast iron plumbing.

5. Frequent leaks

Leaks are so common; it is tough to spot whether they point towards a damaged cast iron pipe. If it happens rarely, a leak is not something for which you have to worry a lot. But if you called the plumber for, let us say, more than 3, 4 times in a month, it certainly means there is an issue going on in the plumbing lines.

You can also be sure that it is the failing cast iron pipe system causing the leak trouble. If your house was constructed a few decades earlier and significant renovation in the plumbing layout has not been conducted since it was built, there is a high chance that it’s time for replacing the system.   

6. Sewer gas odor

A degraded sewer pipe will develop cracks and holes, which let the sewer gas escape. The odor of sewer gas is like those of rotten eggs or sulphuric acid. If you begin sensing it consistently, it probably coming from a cast iron pie that has gone bad. 

Also, the stink lurking around your house is not something that you can put up for long. It's wise to carry out the pipe replacement as soon as possible.

7. Rust spots on plumbing stack

Like all things made of iron, cast iron pipes will also develop rust if their lifespan is ending. You can watch for rust spots on the visible pipes in your house like the plumbing stack. It is a clear sign of corrosion in the pipes. 

8. Discolored water

Another sign that hints towards possible pipe corrosion is strange colored water coming from the faucets. Significant rusting in the pipes is the main reason for this discolored water.

9.Slow Drainage

Drainage issues are no surprise in a household. They occur quite frequently and are relatively easy to rectify. But if usual unclogging techniques aren't solving the issue, then it’s time to get your pipes replaced.

The rust, mold, and sediment build-up for a long time cause recurring drainage issues.

Summing Up

If you are buying or renting a house, check appropriately for the same signs mentioned above. Get the needful done before you move in to avoid any hassle in the future. 

Your failed cast iron pipe can be replaced with better alternatives that will last longer and need lesser maintenance.

Author Bio: About Michelle Joe: Michelle Joe is a blogger by choice. She loves to discover the world around her. She likes to share her discoveries, experiences, and express herself through her blogs. You can find her on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook.