The Plumbers’ Association of California has shared some tips for homeowners of older homes on how to cope with older plumbing systems. While for the most part the fixtures are still useful, the PAC warns some may not be aligned with newer plumbing codes.
The PAC also says that for new owners of older homes, it is best to keep plumbing in good condition because leaks among other plumbing problems can damage the stylish and charming vintage home they have come to love.
“It is not too easy though to upgrade plumbing fixtures like pipework, or add a new bathroom en suite since these are works that could actually damage the fine details of an older house. Having said this, it is important that careful and expert plumbing be done to undertake all these,” says PAC Executive Director Benjamin Foster.
The PAC then suggests that as soon as one moves into an older home, a plumbing inspection should be undertaken by an expert licensed plumber. “Pipes may no longer be up to code, the fixtures as well as the plumbing connections may have already been outdated, and the sewer lines may already be problematic because of ageing and prolonged use,” warns Foster.
“A quick call to a reliable plumber can put one’s mind at ease, and if ever there are repairs or upgrades that are due, then the homeowner can just immediately have the plumber work on these,” Foster adds.
The website My Old House Online has thoroughly tackled the topic and mentioned usual problems that occur in older house plumbing systems. One of the areas discussed was possible defective repairs that may have been undertaken a long time before the new homeowners moved in. Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association
“Maybe a plumber or a previous owner didn’t do the job well which is causing a leak or a busted pipe today. If a non-professional tackled the problems in the past the traps might be installed backwards or doubled-up, pipes might be secured improperly, the drains might be unvented and unsafe water heaters can be a common issue. All these can cause many troubles, including blocked sink, corroded pipes and leaks.”
Read the continuation here.
TheBalance.com meanwhile shared in a blog post what to check in the plumbing system prior to purchasing an older home. In their blog post, they underscored that the sewer lines should be fully inspected to avoid huge expenses in future repairs. International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials
“The time to find out if a sewer is faulty or needs replacement is before buying a home, not after the fact. I recommend to all my buyers that they obtain a sewer inspection if the home is older than 20 years. Although the sewer line may be fairly new as compared to homes built before 1950, for example, tree roots can still clog up a 20-year-old sewer line.” Take a look at the full blog post here.
The PAC says, hiring a licensed plumber for pre-purchase inspections is always a good idea.
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