Water Line Replacements by The Plumb Hero

While some water line issues can be resolved with a repair, certain signs indicate that a full replacement is the more prudent and cost-effective long-term solution. Ignoring these warnings can lead to repeated problems, escalating costs, and potential structural damage to your home.

Here are key indicators that it might be time for The Plumb Hero to perform a water line replacement for your Norcross or Metro Atlanta property:

Frequent Leaks and Repairs

If you're experiencing recurring leaks in your main water line, even after multiple repairs, it's a strong sign that the pipe itself is severely compromised. Patching individual leaks often just delays the inevitable, as the surrounding pipe material is likely also deteriorating.

Persistent Low Water Pressure Throughout Your Home

While a single leak can reduce pressure, widespread, persistent low water pressure affecting all fixtures often indicates a significant obstruction or widespread damage within your main water line. This could be due to extensive corrosion, mineral buildup (scaling), or multiple small leaks that collectively impact flow.

Very Old Water Lines (Especially Galvanized Steel or Polybutylene)

The age and material of your existing water line are crucial factors.

Galvanized Steel Pipes

If your home was built before the 1960s and still has galvanized steel pipes, they are prone to internal corrosion and rust buildup, which restricts water flow and contaminates your water. These pipes are notorious for failing after decades of use.

Polybutylene Pipes

Commonly used between the late 1970s and mid-1990s, polybutylene pipes are known to degrade when exposed to chlorine and other disinfectants in municipal water, leading to brittleness and widespread leaks. If your home has these, replacement is highly recommended.

Consistently Discolored or Cloudy Water

If your cold water frequently appears brown, rusty, or cloudy, even after flushing the lines, it suggests significant internal corrosion or sediment buildup within your main water line. This is a health concern and a clear sign of pipe degradation.

Visible Corrosion on Exposed Pipes

If you have any exposed sections of your main water line (e.g., in a basement or crawl space) and you see significant rust, corrosion, or pitting on the exterior, it's a strong indication of internal deterioration that will eventually lead to leaks.

Major Ground Settling or Foundation Cracks Directly Above the Water Line

Severe, long-term leaks from an underground water line can wash away supporting soil, leading to ground settling or even serious cracks in your home's foundation or concrete slabs directly above the pipe's path. This signifies a major, ongoing issue.

Large, Unexplained Increases in Water Bills Without Visible Leaks

While a repair might fix a visible leak, a continuously high water bill with no obvious signs of a leak could mean water is escaping from multiple micro-fissures or widespread porosity in an old, failing pipe that can only be resolved by replacement.