January 11, 2021

How to Know Your Cast Iron Drain Pipes Need Replacement

By Asher B In blog No comments

You’ve done it. You’ve invested in your character Los Angeles home. Along with the stained-glass windows, original hardwood floors, and drafty windows, you’ve got cast iron drain pipes running throughout the house. These are all excellent and unique features of owning a historical home, but they can prove problematic.

This is especially the case with cast iron drain pipe replacement. Though they are tremendously durable and are designed to last a long time, on average from 80 to 100 years, the actual lifespan depends upon several different factors. It’s possible that in some cases that cast iron pipes can fall short long before that. Boss Plumbing is the experienced plumber to call in the event of problems or replacement of your cast iron pipes.

How Do You Know If Your Cast Iron Pipes Need Replacement?

1. Strong Odor or Discolored Water

If you smell sewer gas around your home, you may very well have a cracked cast iron pipe. The same thing applies to brownish or yellowish water coming from your tap. The discolored water is usually an indication of rust or corrosion. Both are signs that your pipes are nearing the end of their lifespan.

2. Moldy walls

If you have any kind of mold on your walls, this could indicate you could have a cracked cast iron pipe. It doesn’t need a tremendous amount of moisture for mold to start growing. Even the smallest leak will cause a slight rise in humidity. This can be the result of the slightest crack, which can lead to mold growth.

3. Sluggish Drains

Have you taken a look at how fast your toilet or sink takes to fill? If your drain is at all slow or sluggish, this may indicate a severe problem with your cast iron drain pipes. It should be noted that the usual commercial products sold at the store to unclog blockages contain acidic substances that aren’t healthy for cast iron pipes.

4. Indentations in Your Lawn or Pavement

If you see divots or slumps in your grass or any pavement on your property, it’s time to investigate. The water from leaking drainage pipes can form pools under your lawn or driveway. If this goes on long enough, you will notice that certain areas will start to sag or dip, forming indentations. If you spot anything like this on your property, call us at Boss Plumbing in LA immediately.

The Cost Of Replacing Cast Iron Drain Pipes

The price tag of replacing cast iron drain pipes will depend significantly on various factors, including, most importantly, where you live. However, plan on spending somewhere around $175 per foot. Bear in mind that there are several different costs involved as well. These include the cost to cut and replace the concrete slab (foundation) of your home, a few nights in a hotel (because you’ll need to stay somewhere else while these repairs are taking place), replacing the damaged tile, and many other costs.

The Dilemma With Repairing Cast Iron Drainage Pipes

Simply put, for every repair you make on your cast iron drainpipe, the cost will add up exponentially. It’s a short-term solution that usually isn’t very economical in the long run. Suppose you’re experiencing problems the same pipe section. In that case, that’s probably a good indication that your cast iron drain pipes need replacement in that particular area. It’s also an excellent indication you’ve got problems overall.

Due to the high cost of replacing a home’s entire piping system, ask your plumber if it’s possible to replace your cast iron drain pipes in stages. That means, replace one section of pipe this month and another perhaps in six months, for example.

Drain Pipe Replacement-Boss Plumbing

Whether you’ve already purchased your character home or are about to, take a good look at the cast iron piping. Have your piping inspected by a licensed plumber to make sure it’s in good condition. In the event your pipes need repairs or replacement, call Boss Plumbing. We are a family-owned and operated business. With over 70,000 jobs completed, we understand cast iron plumbing and will be able to answer all of your questions.

We look forward to hearing from you.