Galvanized steel pipe is steel plumbing pipe, hints from a home inspector
Galvanized steel pipe is steel plumbing pipe which has been dipped in a galvanizing solution to coat it inside and out for better protection against corrosion. Even with this coating this type pipe will corrode over a period of years and can develop pinhole leaks along its length. Galvanized pipe has a tendency to wear (or corrode) from the inside out and gives few clues to its impending failure. A visual inspection cannot reveal the condition of the water pipes unless they are readily visible and showing signs of heavy corrosion. Galvanized water supply lines have a tendency to clog up and restrict the water flow throughout the property. Minerals from the water, and rust inside the pipes, seem to be at fault. There, at present, is no cure for this problem other than replacement of the pipes. Usually this is done in stages with the most accessible pipes being replaced first. This usually yields a good amount of flow. The line from the water source may be replaced next, then the more difficult lines in attics or basements and then those enclosed in walls. Generally you should expect to replace some or all galvanized water lines after about 30 years. Although some pipes installed in 1978 were being replaced in 1989 and some installed in the 1940's are still doing fine, you can expect an average life of 30 years. If the possibility of replacing pipes concerns you it is recommended that you contact a plumbing contractor for a second opinion. In some parts of the country construction techniques allowed the installation of water lines under the slab the "slab" being the poured concrete floor of the building. Often these water lines were galvanized steel or copper pipes. Water pipes may, on occasion, develop "pinhole" leaks. If the pipe is under or in the slab there would be no way of knowing this unless a wet spot shows up on the floor (which may be under carpet, vinyl or other floor coverings). If there are leaks or if they later develop, it may be necessary to chip away some of the slab and install a new piece of pipe or a patching clamp. Some plumbers may prefer to run a new line through the ceiling or wall and eliminate the affected section of pipe.
Gas pipes in ground or concrete without wrapping: gas pipes
Plastic copper pipe in concrete without protective wrap Pipe meter not supported unprotected damaged Damaged pipes damaged pipes may include excessively corroded pipes, bent
pipes
Water pressure too low or high
Water flow slows when 2 or more faucets turned on
Flow rate reduced at fixture (possible clogged or damaged aerator or valve)
Water pipes fittings joints corroded leaking
Water pipes not insulated insulation incomplete
The above information was provided by TWI Systems Copyright 1995-2007 1-800-553-5660. TWI is a fantastic company to deal with!
