Updated January 17, 2024
Over the long history of indoor plumbing, many different materials have been put to use for constructing pipes. During much of the 20th century, metals such as galvanized steel (steel coated with zinc to prevent corrosion) and cast iron were the most common residential piping materials. Cast iron went out of favor after World War II and starting in the 1970s galvanized steel was replaced with copper, a lighter metal with better corrosion resistance. Plastic pipes such as PVC and PEX also became popular for plumbing systems.
Modern homes today use plastic and copper piping almost exclusively. But if your house is one of the many in the Des Moines Metro Area that was built earlier than the 1980s, it may have some amount of piping, fixtures, elbows, and joints made from an outdated material. We recommend you arrange for re-piping services to replace steel and iron plumbing pipes, which are in danger of corrosion and may even lead to toxicity in your fresh water.
But how much re-piping do you need?
Partial vs. Whole‑House Re-piping
If you’re considering re-piping, it’s probably because you’ve noticed signs of general failure in the plumbing system. Low water pressure, constant leaking, or brownish discoloration in the water are all signs of aging pipes that need to be replaced. Should you have a few old pipes swapped for copper/plastic, or have all the piping removed?
Either type of re-piping is a larger task and one that requires a plumber in Des Moines, IA who is licensed and experienced with this type of work. If your house was built in the 1970s or ‘80s, you may only need sections of the piping replaced: the plumber can identify the steel joints and sections that are causing the problem and can recommend any other upgrades that will benefit the plumbing and keep it in good shape for years to come.
However, if your home is older than fifty years, be prepared to opt for a whole house re-piping. Ask the plumber for a recommendation. If whole-house re-piping is the best choice, you’ll be glad you had it done. A new pipe system means the removal of potentially toxic materials in your freshwater, fewer repair issues, better drainage, and increased home value. New copper and plastic piping will give a house another 50 years or more before it needs major changes to the plumbing.
Let Us Make Your Partial or Whole‑House Re-piping Easier
We’re experts at whole-house re-piping, which means we’re also experts at partial re-piping. We will do everything we can to see that we get the job done promptly and with as little disruption to your life as possible. We back up all of our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee so you can put your mind at ease. Start by requesting an estimate with one of our plumbers. We’ll find out how much work you need to be done to enjoy the best possible future in your home.
Find out more about your re-piping needs. At Golden Rule, “We Obey the Rules to Live By!”
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