Cast Iron Pipes on Older Coral Springs Home May Cause Water Damage

Before the introduction of PVC piping in the 1970s, cast iron pipes were the standard for home plumbing and sewage removal. While this may seem like a long time ago, many houses throughout Florida and across the United States still have the original cast iron plumbing in them. This has become a growing concern among homeowners, as cast iron piping tends to fail once they reach about 50 years of age.

What this means is that most plumbing that has not been replaced since the 1970s may be due to fail in the near future. This problem is compounded by the fact that the majority of plumbers no longer train to service cast iron pipes. Even if your pipes have been serviced and given your plumber’s seal of approval, there’s no way to be absolutely sure if the job was done correctly.

The reason why this is such a growing problem is that cast iron pipes are built to rust. Initially, the layer of rust on the pipe serves as a protective layer, preventing the rust from penetrating too deeply into the metal. But as the years go by, this layer gets repeatedly worn away, thinning out the walls of the pipe and increasing the chance of a rupture.

At around the 50-year mark, your cast iron pipes will become thin enough that a failure is not merely a threat — it’s inevitable.

When pipes burst, they can do significant damage to your home or property that extends far beyond the frustrating chore of simply having to mop. Water damage can compromise the structural integrity of your home. It can destroy insulation, wash away your home’s foundation, ruin drywall and rot wood.

Even if you clean up and replace all of the visibly damaged parts of your property, water damage may lead to additional hazards, such as mold. This can form on the inside of your walls and can result in serious health problems for you and your family. Often, people suffer for months or even years before identifying mold as the culprit of their health issues.

If your cast iron plumbing is approaching the 50 year-old mark, it is important to have it inspected or replaced as soon as possible. This can help prevent further complications and high costs in the years to come. And if you do need to file a water damage claim in Coral Springs, be sure to speak with a certified public adjuster to help you through the process.

Advocate Claims Public Adjusters works with home and business owners across the state of Florida, including West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Hollywood, Boynton Beach and the surrounding areas. To get started, contact us online or call 954-369-0573 today.