Rusty water out of the tap is the first thing most homeowners notice, and it is corroded pipes announcing themselves. Left alone, corrosion thins the pipe wall until it leaks, stains, or bursts. Six signs give you warning first, and every one of them is visible from inside your Mansfield, TX home.
Key Points
- Rusty water, low pressure, leaks at fixtures, a metallic taste, mold at pipe joints, and brown or yellow buildup are the six signs
- Acidic water, chemical drain cleaners, outdoor exposure, and design flaws are the four common causes
- Corrosion is one of the leading causes of pipe failure
- Ignored corrosion leads to burst pipes, structural damage, staining, and full system breakdown
- Regular maintenance checks, proper installation, corrosion resistant materials, and water quality monitoring prevent it
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Corroded pipes are a serious issue for the health and safety of your home. Untreated corrosion damages your pipes and your home’s infrastructure, and corrosion is one of the leading causes of pipe failure. Here are the signs, the causes, and how to protect your home from this costly problem.
6 Warning Signs of Corroded Pipes
A few key signs tell you your pipes are starting to corrode. They include the following.
Rusty Water From the Tap
We have all seen rusty water come out of the tap. It does not look appealing, and it usually does not cause alarm. In most cases rusty water is the result of corroded pipes. Over time the pipes carrying water to our homes break down and leach rust into the water supply. This is not harmful to your health, and it does indicate your pipes need repair or replacement. If you notice rusty water coming from your taps, call a plumber in Mansfield, TX for an inspection.
Low Water Pressure at Every Fixture
If you have struggled to get water out of your shower head or had a sprinkler that could not reach the end of the driveway, you know low water pressure. Various factors cause it, and corrosion in your pipes is a common one. Over time the water flowing through metal pipes corrodes them, which builds up rust and sediment. That buildup restricts water flow and drops your pressure. If corroded pipes are behind your low pressure, call a plumber. A plumber diagnoses the problem and recommends the best action, whether that is repairing or replacing your pipes. Widespread deterioration is what whole home re-piping is for.
Leaks in the Pipes or Around Faucets and Fixtures
A small drip from a faucet does not seem like cause for concern, and it points to a much bigger problem: corroded pipes. Over time the water running through your pipes wears away the metal and the pipes deteriorate slowly. Mineral deposits and acidic water accelerate the process, and both are common in many homes. As the pipes thin, they leak, which brings water and structural damage with it. Call a plumber in Mansfield, TX immediately if you notice any leaks, no matter how small. Our pipe leak repair team handles both the leak and the corroded section behind it.
Metallic Taste in Your Water
A metallic taste in your water is another common sign of corroded pipes. It happens when dissolved metals in the water leach out and make it taste unpleasant. Take action quickly if you notice this, because corrosion causes significant damage to your pipes. Contact a plumber who can replace your pipes and prevent further damage. In the meantime, a water filter improves the taste.
Mold or Mildew Growth Near Pipe Joints
Many homeowners do not know that mold or mildew growth near pipe joints signifies corroded pipes. Corrosion degrades the sealing material around the pipe joints, which lets water leak out. If you notice mold or mildew growth in your home, have a plumbing professional inspect your pipes as soon as possible. Corroded pipes lead to leaks and water damage, and in some cases inhaled mold or mildew causes health problems. Have a plumber inspect your pipes if you see any growth, and you avoid costly repairs and keep your home safe and healthy. Hidden moisture behind a wall calls for plumbing leak detection rather than guesswork.
Brown or Yellow Covering On the Pipes
If you have noticed a brown or yellow covering on the pipes outside your home, have an expert look at it. That is a sign of corrosion, and it means your pipes are at risk of leaking. Treating corrosion with a pipe cleaner is possible, and a professional plumber should assess the situation and confirm your pipes are in good condition.
4 Causes of Corroded Pipes
Many factors cause pipes to corrode. The most common include the fo