How to Repair Galvanized Water Pipe Leaks

People who own homes built before the 1960s would highly benefit from learning how to repair galvanized water pipe leaks. What used to be a common plumbing material has turned into a common plumbing disaster. These older pipes are prone to erosion over the years, thus leading to leaks. On top of that, galvanized pipes only have a lifespan of 80-100 years, which means most of them are likely going to go bad between 2040 and 2060 (in 20-40 years). Learning how to repair galvanized water pipe leaks could save you a ton of money and headaches in the future. 

Can You Repair Galvanized Water Pipe Leaks at Home?

Fortunately, you can choose to fix galvanized water pipes at home yourself, or you can hire a plumber to do the job for you. If you want to fix your galvanized water pipe leaks, follow the steps below.

1. Acquire necessary tools such as a reciprocal saw, a steel pipe, a rubber coupling, and a wrench. These tools are necessary for detaching the damaged part of the pipe and re-attaching a fitting pipe to the area
2. Use the reciprocal saw to cut off the damaged portion of the pipe where the leak is coming from
3. Measure the empty area where the damaged portion of the pipe was before you cut it.
4. Use your reciprocal saw to cut your steel pipe to fit into the damaged area
5. After the steel pipe is cut to the appropriate size, use your rubber coupling to attach the pipe to the area
6. Use a wrench to tighten the coupling plants and ensure that the pipe is put into place properly

Repairing galvanized water pipes is a fix that many homeowners can learn how to do themselves and might not need to hire a plumber to handle. However, if you are unsure about your ability to cut and repair the pipe, then call a plumber.

Should You Replace Your Galvanized Pipes?

If they are causing you trouble, yes. Galvanized pipes are no longer a popular type of plumbing to install in homes. They can cause plumbing issues due to rust corrosion and dangerous blockages. These pipes originally rose in popularity in the 1960s to replace lead piping, but have unfortunately shone their true colors since then. 

While updating your piping can assist in preventing plumbing issues, replacing all of the galvanized piping in your home can be very expensive. If you can afford to replace all the piping in your home, then it might be ideal to do so to prevent plumbing damages and build-up in your pipes. However, if you can’t afford to replace the galvanized pipes in your home, that’s not a problem either. Many galvanized pipe repairs are easy and affordable for homeowners.

Will a Plumber Know How to Repair Galvanized Pipe Leaks?

Pipe leakage is one of the most common problems that galvanized pipes have. Because of this, most plumbers will know how to fix your galvanized pipe leak, and it shouldn’t cost you much money to repair them.

Hiring a plumber to repair your galvanized pipe leaks is ideal for people who don’t have the time to do it themselves or aren’t sure of their ability to repair the pipes themselves. Fortunately, galvanized pipe leaks aren’t the end of the world, and you most likely will have to replace your entire piping system just from one leak. If you have more leaks, have your plumber inspect your walls, foundation, and floors for any extensive water damage! 

How Long will Galvanized Pipes Last?

Homeowners who have galvanized pipes throughout their homes may notice more and more leaks occur as time goes on. These galvanized pipes were only designed to last between 80- and 100 years, which means those installed in the 1960s are reaching the end of their life. This fact means it’s most likely that the galvanized pipes in your homes are coming to the end of their life span.

If you have galvanized pipes in your home, you’re going to need to learn how to fix leaks and fix them often. The zinc coating on these pipes may also make it so that the drinking water in your home is unsafe. Contact a plumber for further information on if you’re drinking water is safe and if it’s time to replace the galvanized pipes throughout your home. Contact us to repair your galvanized water pipe today.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »