Historic neighborhoods throughout Twin Falls showcase homes built decades ago and still standing with quality craftsmanship. But these beautiful older properties have not-so-beautiful issues that newer homeowners may need to tackle. Most properties built before the 1980s use materials and infrastructure in their plumbing systems that are hazardous to both your family’s health and the integrity of your property.
Plumbing issues found by Twin Falls homeowners after water damage result in damage that is expensive to repair and poses health risks. In fact, the local soil conditions and climate of our region often can cause even faster failures of older plumbing materials, which makes it vital to have your lines inspected regularly. Instead of allowing a plumbing emergency to put their investment at risk and threaten their family’s well-being, growing numbers of homeowners are opting for a professional Twin Falls plumber.
Common Plumbing Materials in Older Homes and Their Risks
1. Galvanized Steel Pipes
Galvanized steel pipes were commonplace in Twin Falls homes between the 1930s and 1960s. Eighteen years gave you the impression that these solutions were durable, but now they are ticking time bombs behind your walls! Once the zinc coating wears off, the steel beneath will be subjected to rust and corrosion.
2. Lead Pipes and Solder
One of the most hazardous materials listed in older Twin Falls homes is lead. Lead pipes and solder were widely used in plumbing until the late 1970s, and they can leach dangerous lead levels into drinking water. Even homes with more recently replaced main lines may still have lead service lines or solder joints that could be dangerous.
3. Cast Iron Drain Lines
Older Twin Falls properties have cast-iron drain and sewer lines. These pipes are extremely tough when first installed; however, they rust, build scale, and eventually crack/collapse.
Aging Infrastructure Beneath Twin Falls Homes
Even the best plumbing systems will start to give in to the effects of time after a few years. According to city data, roughly 35% of Twin Falls homes were built before 1980, so thousands of properties are grappling with aging plumbing infrastructure today.
Older pipes are especially susceptible to cracking during the freeze-thaw cycles we often experience in Twin Falls winters. These cycles can set off tiny cracks that only get bigger over time. A minor leak behind a wall can quickly escalate into extensive structural damage.
Plumbing problems behind the scenes are especially problematic because they can go on for years without the homeowner even knowing. A gradual leak could weaken the foundation of your house and encourage mold growth. Old sewer lines can clog and spill back into your home, causing a nasty mess and a big cleanup bill.
Cost of Neglecting Inspections in Older Properties
A new report published by the insurance industry specifically targeting Idaho finds that the average residential water damage claim costs homeowners more than $8,000, and most claims reach five figures if structural damage is involved.
Think about the Twin Falls homeowner who lives in a 1960s ranch home who ignored warning signs. From mildly discolored water, it soon turned into a full rip out, re-pipe, foundation fix, and mold remediation $25,000 later. A $200 plumbing inspection would have detected the deterioration of the galvanized pipe 25+ years earlier, as planned, at a fraction of the price.
Why Professional Inspections Are Essential for Peace of Mind
A professional plumbing inspection does so much more than simply spotting things that are visible to the naked eye. From video camera inspections to pressure testing devices, specialized plumbers utilize high-end technology to identify potential problems before they turn into disasters, as well as moisture detection devices.
For many years, Master Plumbing has earned its reputation in Twin Falls by educating homeowners on how to get their plumbing system under control. Their in-depth reports are prioritized to highlight the most pressing repairs and replacements, helping the homeowner budget accordingly. Not only does their experienced team know the local conditions, but they can also recommend the ideal solutions for the exact area of the Twin Falls home.