Depending on the age of your home, plumbing replacement may be on the horizon simply due to deterioration and decreased efficiency. In addition to age, however, there’s another reason to replace your pipes—health. Many homes still have lead piping or lead components in the plumbing, potentially leading to serious health concerns if the substance finds its way into the water. This is one of the more severe plumbing problems homeowners may face, but before considering the solution, it’s important to first understand why lead was used and the types of homes that may be affected.

Why Lead Pipes Were Used

Traditionally, the metal was used because of its ability to resist leaks while still offering the flexibility needed to be formed into various shapes and sizes. Since lead’s properties helped avoid plumbing problems, it was used as a primary material in plumbing systems, as well as many other types of products. Then, lead’s toxicity was discovered, and industries took measure to eliminate or reduce the metal in various systems and products.

Homes That Might Have Lead Pipes

While the use of lead has significantly decreased, these types of pipes can still be found in residential plumbing systems. Almost all homes built before 1980 have lead solder connecting the network of copper pipes. Lead can also be found on the inside of pipes that connect a home or business to its main water supply.

Why You Should Remove Them

Because of lead’s dangerous properties, these pipes should be removed as soon as possible to avoid plumbing problems. For children, the effects of being exposed to lead range from learning disabilities and slowed growth to anemia. And for pregnant women, the presence of lead pipes could cause premature birth or problems with the growth of the fetus. General side effects for all other adults include hypertension, decreased kidney functions, and reproductive issues for both men and women. 

American Sewer & Septic Service offers expert plumbing services to residents of Albany, OR. From clogs to full sewer line repair and replacement, the company’s experienced crew will get the job done with professionalism and efficiency. If you have questions or concerns about lead pipes in your home, give their team a call today at (541) 926-1185. For more information on how they will assist with plumbing problems, visit their website today.