Older Homes and Sewer Lines

October 12, 2020

Purchasing an older home can be a great investment. However, it’s not something you want to rush into—home-building methods and technologies have vastly improved over the past few decades, meaning older houses might not be constructed up to today’s standards.

One of the most common shortcomings of older homes has to do with the plumbing system, particularly the sewer pipe that connects the home to the septic system or city sewer system. But what exactly are sewer lines? Read on to learn how they can fail in older homes in Conway, SC.

Types of sewer lines in older homes

The materials used to make sewer lines have changed quite a bit over the past century. These are the most common sewer pipe materials you’ll find in older homes:

  • Transite: Also known as asbestos-cement (AC) pipes, these pipes are common in homes built between the 1950s and 1970s. They’re relatively resistant to corrosion, but the technology used to connect them isn’t as reliable as it is today. The lifespan of these pipes is about 70 years, so if your home was built in the ‘50s, it may be time to install a new sewer pipe.
  • Clay: Builders have been using clay to make pipes since 4,000 BC, so you know they’re reliable! Although they’re not used in today’s plumbing, they were a common sewer pipe choice in homes built before the 1950s. Clay pipes can last up to 60 years before they need to be replaced.
  • Cast iron: These pipes were used in many homes built between the 1950s and 1970s. They’re incredibly durable and can even last for 75 to 100 years before they need to be replaced.
  • Lead: Having lead piping is one of the scariest issues when it comes to older homes and problem plumbing in Conway, SC. Lead plumbing can last for 100 years, but the lead could leach into the water supply and cause lead poisoning. Have your lead pipes replaced as soon as possible.
  • PVC: Builders started to use PVC sewer pipes in the 1940s and continue to use them today. These pipes can last for up to 100 years, so even if your home was one of the first to incorporate PVC sewer pipes, you should be good to go for the next few decades.

Common sewer line problems for older homes

Houses both old and new can have problems with their plumbing system. However, these are a few of the most common plumbing problems with older homes:

  • Root infiltration: Trees are a common nuisance for sewer lines, as the roots grow towards the pipe and try to break in to access the water. Roots are a bigger problem on older properties, as the trees and their roots tend to be larger.
  • Broken pipes: Sewer lines can break at any time, but if you have older pipes, they’re more likely to crack or break. Have your sewer pipe inspected today to ensure it’s in good condition.

Rooter express can solve all of your problems

From new installations to minor repairs, the professionals at Rooter Express can address all of your sewer line needs. We specialize in older homes and sewer lines in Conway, SC, so you’re in good hands when you call our team.

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