Galvanized steel plumbing, common in buildings built before the 1960s and 70s, corrodes from the inside over time. The protective zinc layer eventually wears away, the steel rusts, and deposits build up in the pipe, gradually reducing the usable diameter.
Common causes
aging is the primary cause, it is a material at the end of its useful life. The quality of the water, its mineralization and the presence of mixed fittings (galvanized and copper, which accelerate galvanic corrosion) all influence the rate of degradation.
Signs to watch for
low water pressure, especially upstairs or at the end of the network; brownish or rusty water on the first draw, particularly after an absence; grey pipes with rusted, swollen threads; corrosion or seepage at the fittings; hot water more affected than cold.
Why you should not ignore it
beyond the discomfort (dropping flow, coloured water), corroded galvanized piping is a system at the end of its run whose failure can cause leaks and water damage. Replacing it is a cost to anticipate, and its presence is something to consider when evaluating an older building.
What a professional assessment reveals
Corrosion of galvanized piping progresses from the inside: the diameter closes up and pressure drops well before the leak. An assessment evaluates the condition and age of the network as well as the replacement to plan for, key information from a pre-purchase inspection.
Vous soupconnez ce probleme dans un batiment ?
Une inspection le confirme, le documente et le chiffre, pour decider en connaissance de cause.
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