COMMON PIPE PROBLEMS
Identifying Common Pipe Problems
At Replumb Specialties Inc., we specialize in addressing the critical weaknesses found in various piping systems. Over time, materials like Aquatherm, Cast Iron, Copper, CPVC, and others have proven to be vulnerable to significant failures. Owners and management teams are often left with extensive water damage and expensive repair costs. This page provides a brief overview of each common pipe problem, highlighting their fundamental flaws and the risks they pose to properties. Explore the sections below to understand the specific issues associated with each piping system and learn about alternatives and solutions we recommend for a safe and reliable water piping system.
Aquatherm, a polypropylene-random (PP-R) piping system invented in Germany during the 1980s, gained popularity due to its initial reliability and commercialization. However, the company’s reputation has been tarnished in recent years due to a series of failures in Australia and the United States, leading to significant water damage and costly repairs. This article will explore the fundamental flaws of Aquatherm piping, its vulnerabilities, legal challenges, and why alternative solutions like PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) are superior choices for plumbing needs.
Cast iron piping has been a common choice for plumbing systems in homes and buildings since the mid-19th century. Its durability, strength, and ability to withstand high water pressure made it a popular choice for both water supply and waste removal. However, despite its historical popularity, cast iron piping is prone to failure over time, leading to costly repairs and water damage. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the history of cast iron piping, the reasons behind its failures, and why replacing it with modern alternatives like PVC is a smart, long-term solution.
Copper piping has been a popular choice for plumbing systems in homes and buildings for decades. Known for its durability, resistance to corrosion, and ability to withstand high water pressure, copper piping has been the go-to material for many plumbing professionals. However, despite its many benefits, copper piping is not immune to failure, particularly in the form of pitting corrosion. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the history of copper piping, the different types of copper pipes available, the galvanic corrosion process, and why homeowners and property managers should consider replacing failing copper piping systems.
If your property has CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) pipes, it’s crucial to be aware of the serious risks they pose. CPVC piping systems have gained notoriety for their tendency to fail prematurely, leading to costly water damage, mold growth, and even health hazards. At Replumb Specialties Inc., we specialize in comprehensive repiping solutions to replace failing CPVC pipes and protect your property. In this article, we’ll look into the problems associated with CPVC and explain why professional repiping is the smart choice.
Epoxy pipe lining has been marketed as a convenient and cheap solution to prevent or stop leaks in failing water systems. However, many property owners are unaware of the failures, repair difficulties, and toxic materials associated with epoxy-lined pipes. Most property owners that have used this method have experienced the consequences of epoxy lined piping failure, leaving tenants with potential health hazards in their water supply and leaving owners with the costs of a complete water system replacement that they may have tried to avoid in the first place. In this write-up, we’ll explore the history of epoxy pipe lining, the materials used during the lining process, and the reasons why it often fails. We’ll also suggest a safer and more reliable alternative.
Galvanized steel piping has been a common choice for plumbing systems in homes and buildings for many decades. However, as these pipes age, they become prone to corrosion and failure leading to a host of problems for property owners. In this article, we’ll jump into the history of galvanized steel piping, the reasons behind its failure, the galvanic corrosion process, and the associated health hazards. We’ll also discuss why it’s essential for homeowners and management teams to replace failing galvanized steel piping with the help of a professional turnkey repipe service.
Hydronic heating systems are a popular and efficient way to heat homes and buildings, but they can experience failures due to various factors including the type of piping used. Some common types of piping that may fail in hydronic heating systems include polybutylene, Kitec, Aquatherm, Entran II, and copper. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind these failures and discuss why using a pipe with an oxygen barrier, such as Uponor’s hePEX system, is an optimal solution for replacing failing systems.
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, a new type of plumbing system called Kitec gained popularity in homes and buildings across North America. Marketed as a cost-effective and easy-to-install alternative to traditional copper piping, Kitec was widely used in new construction and renovations. However, as the years passed, the inherent flaws in the Kitec system became increasingly apparent, leading to a massive settlement and growing concerns among homeowners and property managers.
Polybutylene piping, a once-popular choice for plumbing systems, has left a lasting impact on countless homes and buildings across the United States. Installed in millions of properties between 1978 and 1996, this gray plastic piping was initially hailed as a cost-effective and easy-to-install alternative to traditional copper piping. However, as time passed, the dangers of polybutylene became increasingly apparent, leading to a massive class action lawsuit and a growing concern among homeowners and property managers.
Sodium silicate additives are touted as an anticorrosive that is dripped into the plumbing system. Sodium silicate carries a negative charge, allowing it to bond to the interior of positively charged pipes. An invisible insulation layer forms on the interior of the pipe, and is meant to slow down or prevent corrosion. While this process is not only surprisingly expensive, health risks are prevalent. The Occidental Chemical Corporation describes sodium silicate on their safety data sheet as: “Corrosive. Causes serious eye damage. Causes skin irritation. Harmful if swallowed.”
If you’re experiencing issues with any of these piping systems or want to learn more, feel free to reach out to Replumb Specialties Inc. Our team is here to answer any questions and provide the best solutions for your plumbing needs. Contact us today for expert advice and support.
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