If you live in Arizona and your home was built before the 1970s, you’ve probably got galvanized pipe plumbing in your house. It’s not an emergency to replace it, but there are some excellent reasons to consider an upgrade.
What Are Galvanized Pipes?
Galvanized pipes are made of steel and coated in a layer of zinc. When they were first used, the zinc coating was intended to keep pipes from rusting. But this protection can’t last forever. After 50 to 70 years, the zinc starts to wear away, and rust can slowly begin to feast on your pipes. That’s when the trouble starts: The steel underneath the zinc starts to corrode from the inside out.
Why Galvanized Pipes Are All Over Arizona?
From the early 1900s all the way through the 1960s, galvanized pipes were standard practice for residential construction. Arizona enjoyed a huge housing boom during those decades, especially in the Phoenix and Scottsdale metro areas. As a result, many homes were outfitted with galvanized steel.
Arizona's Hard Water Doesn't Help
Arizona is famous for having hard water. In other words, the water has a lot of minerals in it. Hard water causes calcium, magnesium, and rust deposits to build up inside your aging galvanized pipes. Over time, the pipes’ interior diameter shrinks. If you’ve noticed your water flow isn’t as good as it used to be, that’s probably why. Unfortunately, it’s also the perfect climate for leaks.
If your tap water has a brownish tint or tastes like metal, that’s another sign you’re dealing with rusty galvanized pipes. Constant small leaks and repeated plumbing repairs are more symptoms of your ailing pipes.
When It Gets Risky: Bathroom Remodels
A bathroom remodel is one of the most popular home improvement projects in the Valley. However, if you’re installing new fixtures and new tile but leaving old galvanized pipes in the walls, you may be setting yourself up for problems down the road.
Connecting modern fixtures to deteriorating pipes creates a mismatch. This can lead to leaks and pressure issues. You may even experience water damage behind your new walls. Nobody wants to deal with these kinds of issues six months after they’ve remodeled their bathroom.
These outdated galvanized pipes were hiding behind the walls.
The Benefits of Replacement Now
Replacing galvanized pipes with modern copper or PEX plumbing is a smart thing to do when you’re renovating your bathroom. You’ve already got the walls open and a plumber in the room. The cost of replacement now is a lot cheaper than having to tear into finished surfaces in the future.
The good news is that you’ll immediately notice stronger water pressure. And your water will run clean. Perhaps best of all, you don’t have to worry about unwelcome surprises later.
Get Your Plumbing Checked Before You Start Remodeling Your Bathroom
If your home is more than 50 years old and you’re thinking about a bathroom remodel, the best investment you can make is to have a licensed plumber inspect your pipes first. It’s a small step that protects your investment and gives you real peace of mind about your plumbing’s long-term health. After addressing plumbing issues related to galvanized plumbing or other issues, call AZ BathMasters for a professionally completed rebuild.
AZ BathMasters is a locally owned and operated bathroom remodeling company specializing in Cultured Marble Tyvarian shower and tub conversions, walk-in-showers, and tub and shower side-by-sides. Our conversions produce a fresh, clean, and beautiful atmosphere and with over 200 color and design choices we know you will find just what you are looking for.
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From a Full bathroom Remodel and Upgrade to a tub or shower conversion, AZ BathMasters Has Got You Covered.