Did you know that almost 40% of Florida’s homes were built prior to 1975? Cast iron pipes were a popular building material at the time. Although durable, these pipes can fail over time and succumb to corrosion, leaks, and calcification, especially in Florida. Alternative pipe materials like PVC (polyvinylchloride) or PE (polyethylene) are more reliable and last longer. Cast iron may have been a good choice for homes in the past, but it can also deteriorate over time. Cast iron can cause irreparable damage and present safety and health risks for you and your family.
What can you do for your cast iron pipes?
The cost to replace an entire plumbing system can vary depending on how large your home is and the extent of damage. Most people cannot afford to pay all that out of pocket. Although replacing a plumbing system can be costly, homeowners insurance policies may cover the cost.
What can you do then?
- Learn about your insurance policy. It is important to be familiar with your insurance policy’s limits, exclusions, and coverages before you file an insurance claim. These insurance policies can be complicated. It is important to have a plumber company such as Clog Kings that can provide excellent reporting using video and photographic evidence.
- Your insurance may send a plumber out to assess the damage. It’s a good idea to get a second opinion from someone who is not employed by the company and does not know the exclusions on your policy. This allows them to give an impartial opinion that can prove vital in court cases.
- You must act quickly and proactive. Insurance companies have added language that requires policyholders to report losses within three business days after they “knew or ought to have known” that a loss has occurred. Insurance companies have been adding more restrictive language to their policies over the years to limit coverage for cast iron damage.
You don’t want rotten cast iron pipes in your home, especially if they pose a danger to you or your family. Clog Kings can provide long-lasting replacement solutions for cast iron pipes in Florida.
Six Signs That Cast Iron Plumbing Needs to Be Replaced in Florida
Cast iron can develop fractures and holes that allow water and moisture to seep. This can lead to a series of bad reactions. The pipes can also develop a foul odor due to the sewage gas being able to escape through cracks. The unpleasant odor can cause health problems for anyone who inhaled the poisonous gases. Mold can also quickly develop and cause skin and respiratory problems in the family. Check the following signs to determine if you need to replace cast-iron pipes in your plumbing system.
Foul Smell
Other than a few ventilation stacks you should ensure your sewage system is watertight to allow it to function efficiently. Cast iron pipes show signs of cracking as the deteriorate. The next step is both dangerous and inappropriate. This exposes your home to sewage gas. The situation can become uncomfortable if you have guests. To replace your pipes with new ones, call Clog Kings.
Pipe Leak
Although leaks are common in Florida homes, they shouldn’t be a concern if they happen only once or twice over a long period of time. However, it is not a good sign to call a plumber several times per month. According to plumbers, sulfuric acid can cause damage to cast iron pipes. Do-it-yourself methods will not work. You can save your time and have your pipes replaced by a plumber.
Defective Foundations
Cracks or holes in walls and foundations are the most dangerous and costly sign. This damage may be caused by water leaks in cast iron pipes. If they are not detected, they can cause damage to your house’s foundations. To replace cast iron pipes, you don’t have to spend a lot on house maintenance.
Mold Growth
Mold can be dangerous to your family’s health. Poor plumbing and mold can lead to a sad ending. Molds can grow even with very little water. Your cast iron plumbing system can leak, which could lead to mold growth in your home. This can be prevented by replacing your cast iron plumbing. It will keep you safe and healthy.
Sewage Backups
Cast iron pipes can often block toilet emptying and cause sewage backups. Draining chemical goods is an option. These solutions can be problematic because they contain sulfuric acid. This chemical agent can cause damage to cast iron pipes. Instead of depending on these items, contact a professional plumber to repair your cast iron pipes.
Unusual watercolor
You expect water that is clean and clear to fill your glass cup, wash dishes, or run the shower. Sometimes, the water might be slightly tinted when the city repairs the main water pipes. This is not a problem. Your pipes should be replaced if the water is consistently colored. Discoloration can be caused by corroded and rusty pipes. Cast iron pipes that corrode will cause rusty metal pieces to chip off and seep into the water supply. This can lead to discoloration. Your pipes will deteriorate faster, which can lead to leaks and burst pipes. You need to replace them quickly.
Florida Plumbing Technicians Needed to Replace Cast Iron Pipes
Clog Kings is the best choice if you need Cast Iron Plumbing Replacement in Florida. Cast iron replacement equipment reduces the cost and makes the job more affordable for Florida residents. We take the time to assess the problem and present all options for replacing cast iron pipes that don’t cause damage to your foundation. We can help you if you have any of the following symptoms or if your cast iron drain tunnels are causing problems in your plumbing system.
This post was written by Joey Denick. Joey is the Owner and Operator of Clog Kings. At Clog Kings, LLC, we pride ourselves on our dedication and efficiency. We know you don’t have time to waste. That’s why we work fast to get your home or commercial building back up and running in no time. If you are looking for St.pete Plumbing then look no further because we got you covered!
