Pipe failure is one of the worst nightmares of any homeowner. Whether it’s a leaky pipe in your kitchen or burst pipes in your basement, pipe failure can cause major property damage, electrical failure, and the potential need for your family to evacuate your home. It can end with a costly pipe replacement or pipe repair that you spend years paying off.

At Goodman Plumbing, our team has seen the damage that pipe failure can cause, and it’s not pretty. That’s why we are committed to helping you avoid expensive pipe repairs whenever we can. We feel that understanding the most common causes of pipe damage is a great first step to avoiding failure that can result in damage to your home. 

Corrosion

Over time, pipes degrade and become weakened due to corrosion. Corrosion can be caused by a number of factors including hard water, metals, sediment, chemicals, pressure changes, and wear and tear. Corrosion can cause leaks and burst pipes. Signs of pipe corrosion include rust, flaking, odor, and discolored water.

Age

Although most pipes last several decades, eventually they will fail simply because they are old. When purchasing a home, it’s important to have a plumbing inspection done so you know the age of your pipes and the condition of your plumbing system. Signs of aging pipes include leaks, poor water pressure, and discolored water.

Clogs

A clogged pipe every so often may not seem like a big deal, but chronic clogs increase the water pressure inside a pipe and restrict water flow. This can lead to cracks, leaks, and even burst pipes. Debris from a clog can attach itself to the pipe, causing corrosion. 

Temperature

Major fluctuations in temperature can cause burst pipes. This is especially true in frigid weather. If your area is expecting a cold snap, you can avoid potential problems by ensuring your pipes are properly insulated, draining outdoor faucets, opening cabinets under sinks, and letting faucets drip.

Tree Roots

Tree roots and other organic materials can grow around underground sewer pipes and eventually cause cracks and punctures that will lead to damage and cause pipe failure. It’s vital to maintain trees and have sewer lines inspected to ensure tree roots aren’t encroaching on the pipes. 

Improper Installation 

One of the main causes of pipe failure is improper installation. While we all want to save money with do-it-yourself projects, plumbing is not an area to test your skills. Always use a licensed professional when pipe installation is required. 

Chemicals

Clogs and slow-draining pipes are without a doubt annoying. While it’s easy to pour chemicals down the drain to unclog pipes, it can do more harm than good. Over time, chemicals can degrade pipes and cause weakened and corroded pipes. Always try natural remedies like vinegar and baking soda, or call a professional before resorting to harmful chemicals.

Contact Goodman Plumbing 

If you’re in the greater Philadelphia area and need plumbing, heating, or drain services, you can rely on contact Goodman Plumbing for a free estimate today!