When it comes to home improvement projects, you might prioritize those that add glamor and functionality to the home. Replacing your bathroom plumbing is rarely your first thought. It is important to note, however, that plumbing doesn’t last forever, and the longer you put off the repair, the greater the risk of damage. You’ll find eight reasons to do this type of project right here if you’re waiting for a sign.Â
1. Your Fixtures are Old or Malfunctioning
Examine your sink fixtures, your tub faucet and handles, and your showerhead. You might need to replace your bathroom’s plumbing if you notice rust, other stains that won’t come off with a good cleaning, or chips in the metal.Â
It’s a great DIY project to replace your bathroom sink or fixtures. To avoid water damage, turn off the water before replacing outdated fixtures.
2. Leaks and Dribbles
Drainage problems, pooling water, and constant dribbles from faucets are more than just annoyances. If you notice any of these signs, you might need to replace your bathroom hardware or your plumbing.
3. Frequent Clogs
You may not be able to fix your slow draining tub or shower with a drain snake or vinegar and baking soda mixture. A professional should be called if you find pools of water outside your shower or tub despite your best efforts.
4. Visible Signs of Water Damage
Cracked pipes aren’t always obvious immediately-many are under the floor or behind the bathroom wall-but you’ll definitely notice water damage. It’s crucial to address damp spots on drywall, pools of water on the floor, or unexplained wet spots as soon as possible to minimize damage and prevent mold growth. Fix the issue and shut off the water in the bathroom by calling your local plumber.
5. You’re Experiencing a Decrease in Water PressureÂ
As the pipes in your bathroom accumulate debris over time, they narrow in diameter, resulting in a gradual but noticeable loss of water pressure. Having trouble filling the tub, refilling the toilet after flushing, or getting shampoo out of your hair may indicate that your bathroom plumbing needs to be replaced.Â
6. You Notice Discolored or Smelly Water
It is most likely malfunctioning if your hot water heater smells funny or looks red and rusted. Due to bacterial growth and other factors, steel rods (called “sacrificial anodes”) corrode inside hot water tanks. Interestingly enough, they act as a magnet, removing debris from your pipes so they don’t clog. You will be able to detect warning signs of water heater degeneration with your nose and eyes if they begin to degrade with age. At that point, it’s time to budget for replacement plumbing.
7. There’s Unpleasant Mold Growth
The development of mold spores on the walls or ceiling of your bathroom indicates that water is flowing somewhere it shouldn’t. Near the location of bathroom pipes, look for damp spots, crumbling drywall, or dark spots. If you see any signs of mold or water infiltration, call a professional plumber to find the source and stop the leak or replace the plumbing entirely, depending on how serious the problem is.
8. You Live in an Older Home with Lead Pipes
Even though the U.S. government banned lead from paint and varnish products in 1978, lead pipes are still common in older homes. When children are repeatedly exposed to lead, they are at risk of lead poisoning. The safest and most thorough course of action is to replace those pipes entirely.