Uh oh. What is that knocking sound coming from your pipes, and why is that water looking a little cloudy and rusty? These are only a few of the signs — along with leaks — that it's time to start considering a plumbing upgrade. How can you tell whether you need to do a pricey full replacement of your old plumbing system versus just a few upgrades? Here are some of the options you have based on the plumbing setup within your home.

What Type of Material Makes Up Your Plumbing Pipes?

The first question that your plumbing professional will need to answer is what type of material is used in your plumbing systems. This could be anything from older brass, copper and galvanized steel pipes to a newer PVC pipe option. Each of these materials has a different lifespan, and some older homes have a combination of plumbing materials working together as replacements have been made over the years. Galvanized pipes are the longest-lasting option as they can potentially last up to 100 years while copper will "only" last 70-80 years. There are many factors that go into the total lifespan of your pipes including chemical usage and even tree roots that are close to your plumbing and foundation.

Warning Signs of Plumbing Problems

Aside from rusty particles in the water, there are several signs that you might have a bigger plumbing problem. When multiple repairs start running together and the expenses mount, it may be cost-effective to consider replacing the system overall. There also comes a point when basic repairs begin causing larger problems with your plumbing systems — a great indicator that a broader project may be a good idea. 

Mesh Updates With Your Remodeling

Got a large home improvement or remodeling project coming up? When you replace plumbing, there's a fair amount of pipes that will need to be exposed. Extensive home improvements may allow plumbers better access to pipes that are running through the walls.

Are Your Pipes A Safety Concern?

There are new health hazards discovered on a regular basis in terms of building materials. One of the best examples is asbestos — for years, this was considered superior insulation for buildings such as schools and homes. Today, we know that it can cause serious problems. Copper and steel pipes are much the same. While they may be okay, they could potentially contain lead that is particularly dangerous in homes where there are small children or the elderly. 

The best way to determine whether you need to schedule a full replacement of your pipes or if repairs are the way to go is to speak with the professionals at Amanda Plumbing in Delaware. Our trained professionals will provide you with the best possible recommendation that is tailored to the unique needs of your home and family. Call us today at 740-369-5161 or request a service estimate online anytime.