There is nothing like closing a mortgage contract. Your new status as a homeowner is sealed. Now it is time to enjoy your new residence. Beyond making the payments, maintenance is another responsibility. This means inspecting various systems that can be seen with the naked eye as wells as those you cannot. One of the most critical systems to maintain is the plumbing. At some point, repairs and replacements are necessary. Here are four critical warning signs that suggest an update should be done today.

Current Age of the Existing System

Nothing last forever and this is especially true for the current plumbing system in your home. When you first purchase the property, the inspections and disclosures stipulate the specifications including the ages of all the systems. Be cognizant about home systems including the plumbing, HVAC, roof and others. There are age limits or lifespan for each one as recommended by the manufacturer. As documented on Houselogic.com, most plumbing systems have an average life expectancy of 70 to 100 years for supply piping, while drainage lines can last anywhere from 25 to 100 years. The broad range is a reflection of the type of pipes in the system.

Type of Pipes

Plumbing pipes are manufactured with several types of materials. They include galvanized steel, PVC, copper, cast iron, and brass. The type of pipe used is specific to its function. For example, galvanized steel, brass, and copper are mainly used for supply lines or the ones from the main water provider. Cast iron and PVC handle the drain lines to the sewer system. Supply lines with both brass and galvanized steel begin to show wear around 80 years, while copper can start to fail after 70. Cast iron is similar with issues at the 80 year mark as well. PVC has the shortest lifespan of 25 to 40 years of use. However, the rust factor does not exist with PVC pipes. As a side note, two types of pipes warrant replacement due to health hazard including polybutylene and lead.

Leaks or Drips of Any Kind

The dreaded leak or incessant drip is the nightmare of every homeowner. That is because it is a sure sign of system distress is being exhibited. It can also take the form of wet spots with no visible leaks at the time. Another telltale sign of a leak is an increase in the water bill. Some patchwork to the system with sporadic repairs will only prolong the inevitable. If your home is near the 50 year mark, you should check its plumbing. After 50 years of age, be sure to monitor the plumbing regularly. Enlist the services of a company like Capital Care Plumbing in Katy, TX, or a plumber in your area to inspect the lines and even drain them, especially if you see signs of sluggishness.

Corrosion or Discoloration of Pipes

Outward signs of plumbing damage are easy to see by checking for rust, corrosion or discoloration. There will also be signs of decay and changes in shape. Internal damage requires a little more effort to distinguish. There is a two-step process that can be completed every time you plan a trip away for several days. The ideal time frame is three to five days. Once you return home, turn on the faucet to check the color of the water. If it is not clear, this is a critical warning sign that you cannot wait on plumbing repairs. This means all the water being used is contaminated by rust deposits, including your drinking water.

Listen to the alarm bells of these critical warning signs. It would be prudent to begin the process immediately to find a plumbing professional that can resolve the issue. By shopping around, you can compare quotes and find the company that works best for you. In addition, check the customer reviews and ask for references from similar jobs. Remember, the lowest bid does not always translate into the best choice. A caveat is to consider updating during any home renovation to head off any future issue