Cast iron pipes offer a lot of benefits, but not many modern homes have them fitted, opting for PVC pipes instead. One of these benefits is that they are incredibly durable and long-lasting. House logic claims that the typical lifespan of cast iron pipe is 80-100 years. If you install cast iron pipes in your home, this makes it unlikely that they’ll need replacing in your lifetime.

But maybe you’ve moved into an old home with cast iron piping that’s already been there for decades. If the cast iron plumbing in your home needs replacing, then read on for our advice.

When to replace your cast iron pipes

You should inspect your pipes for damage on a regular basis, especially if you notice any new problems with water pressure or drainage in your home. Look for obvious signs of damage such as rust, cracks, holes, and leaks. But since cast iron pipes are so solid, wear and damage might not always be noticeable from the outside.

So, if you are having problems with your plumbing, then it’s a good idea to call a plumber to assess the problem and inspect your pipes for any problems. They will be able to tell you whether or not your cast iron pipes need replacing.

Spot repair or full system replacement?

When a portion of your pipe system is damaged, one option is to cut out that section of pipe and replace it with new piping. This will cost you much less than replacing the entire system and the process won’t be as disruptive or long-lasting. However, if your pipes are very old (over 100 years), then it could be that other sections of piping will be soon to go, too. If this is the case, then replacing the whole system could be more time and cost-effective in the long-run.

What to replace your cast iron pipes with?

The final question is whether to install new iron piping in your home or choose a different material such as PVC. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so try to do some research into each option and ask a professional plumber for advice, too. Ductile iron pipe is a more modern development of cast iron pipes and has a similar lifespan to the originals.

For any plumbing and maintenance needs, from cast iron pipes to PVC, you can call Scott Brandon Plumbing for our emergency plumber services across Lewisville, Clemmons, Winston Salem, and beyond.