When Should You Replace Your Home’s Pipes?
Your plumbing system is one of the most important parts of your home—but it’s also one of the most overlooked. Pipes are hidden behind walls, under floors, and in ceilings, which means issues often go unnoticed until they turn into major (and expensive) problems.
At Affordable Air & Plumbing, we help Cape Coral homeowners stay ahead of plumbing disasters with proactive inspections and smart replacements. If your home is older or you’re dealing with persistent plumbing issues, here’s how to know when it might be time to replace your pipes.
How Long Do Pipes Last?
Every type of pipe has an expected lifespan. If your home is several decades old, there’s a good chance your pipes are approaching or past that window—especially if they haven’t been replaced since the house was built.
Here’s a general idea of how long different materials typically last:
Galvanized steel pipes usually last 40 to 50 years.
Copper pipes can last over 50 years.
PVC pipes typically last between 40 and 70 years.
PEX piping (commonly used today) can last 40 years or more.
Cast iron pipes have a lifespan of 75 to 100 years, but they’re prone to corrosion.
If your home was built before the 1970s and still has original plumbing, it’s a good idea to have it inspected—especially if you’re noticing other warning signs.
Red Flags That Your Pipes May Need to Be Replaced
Even if your pipes haven’t reached the end of their expected lifespan, there are signs that could mean they’re starting to fail:
Rust-colored or discolored water coming from the tap, especially when using hot water, may indicate corrosion inside the pipes.
Frequent leaks or ongoing repairs can be a sign that your pipes are wearing out. A repair or two is normal—but recurring issues point to a larger problem.
Low water pressure might mean buildup or corrosion is restricting water flow inside the lines.
Banging or knocking sounds when you use water could mean your pipes are loose or deteriorating.
Visible corrosion or staining on exposed piping—such as under sinks or near water heaters—suggests it’s time for an upgrade.
Mold, mildew, or water damage on walls or ceilings could mean there’s a hidden leak, which is often tied to aging or damaged pipes.
Whole-Home vs. Partial Repiping
You might not need to replace all of your pipes at once. Sometimes, replacing a specific section—like those serving the kitchen or bathroom—solves the issue. In other cases, especially in older homes with widespread corrosion, a whole-home repipe is the safest long-term fix.
At Affordable Air & Plumbing, we’ll always take the time to inspect your system thoroughly and recommend the most practical, cost-effective solution for your situation.
Why Replacing Pipes Proactively Makes Sense
Waiting until a pipe bursts or you find mold behind your wall can cost thousands in repairs. Replacing pipes before they fail offers a range of benefits:
Helps you avoid unexpected water damage
Improves water quality and pressure
Makes your home more appealing to buyers
Reduces the risk of emergency plumbing calls
Provides peace of mind that your system is reliable
Not Sure If Your Pipes Are Still in Good Shape?
If you’re unsure about the age or condition of your plumbing, we can help. Our experienced technicians use modern tools—like video pipe inspections—to evaluate your plumbing system without causing any damage to your home.
We’ll give you an honest assessment, walk you through your options, and make sure you have all the information you need to make the right decision.
Visit our Contact Us page to schedule your plumbing inspection or consultation. We're here to make sure your home’s plumbing is safe, efficient, and built to last.
