While you may not think about it daily, your home’s plumbing is an important part of your life. From the moment you turn on the faucet to brush your teeth in the morning to take a hot shower at night, your plumbing system is constantly working hard to ensure you have everything you need. So what happens if that plumbing starts to corrode? Is it something you should be worried about? Should you call a plumber immediately?
How Does Corrosion in Pipes Occur?
Corrosion in pipes is a major problem for the water industry. It is caused by a chemical reaction between the pipe materials and the water. This reaction creates a thin layer of scale on the pipe surface, which protects the metal from further corrosion. However, this layer of scale can break down over time, allowing corrosion. Corrosion can also be caused by changes in the water chemistry, such as increased acidity.
Are Corroded Plumbing Pipes Dangerous?
When you think of dangerous things in your home, corroded plumbing pipes may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, if you have corroded pipes, they could be putting your health and safety at risk! They can cause several problems, including:
Water Contamination
One of the most common causes of water contamination is corrosion in pipes. Over time, the chemicals in water can react with the metal of pipes, causing them to break down and leach into the water supply. This can lead to several problems, including:
Discolored water: When corrosion particles mix with water, it can cause the water to change color. This can indicate that harmful metals are present in the water.
Bad taste and odor: Corrosion can also change the taste and odor of water, making it unpalatable. In extreme cases, it can make water smell like metal or bleach.
Health problems: The most serious concern with contaminated water is the risk to human health. When pipes corrode, they release metals and other contaminants into the water supply. These contaminants can cause serious health problems, including gastrointestinal illnesses, skin irritation, and central nervous system damage.
Over time, pipes can develop small cracks and holes due to corrosion. This allows bacteria and other contaminants to enter the water supply, posing a serious health risk to those who drink it.
To protect public health, it is important to have a plumber in North Las Vegas, NV, regularly inspect your plumbing systems for signs of corrosion and take steps to prevent or mitigate its effects.
Mold and Mildew Growth
Corrosion in pipes is a serious issue that can lead to several consequences, including mold and mildew growth. The presence of mold and mildew can cause many problems, ranging from structural damage to health issues. Mold and mildew thrive in damp, dark places, and the pipes behind walls and under floors provide the perfect environment for these organisms to grow. When corrosion weakens the pipes, it allows water to seep through, providing the moisture that mold and mildew need to survive.
Mold and mildew can cause several problems, including:
Allergies and respiratory problems: While mold and mildew may not seem harmful, they can cause various health problems, particularly for people with respiratory conditions such as asthma or allergies. Inhaling spores from mold and mildew can trigger an asthma attack, and the spores can also aggravate other respiratory conditions, such as bronchitis or sinusitis. Additionally, mold and mildew can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Bad odor in your home: In addition to causing health problems, mold and mildew can make your home smell musty and damp. This can be unpleasant for you and your family and make your home less inviting to guests.
Damage to your home: Mold and mildew can cause serious damage to your home. In addition to eating away at the wood and drywall in your home, mold and mildew can weaken beams and joists, leading to structural problems.
Therefore, to avoid the mold and mildew growth instigated by corrosion, you should have a plumber inspect your plumbing system at the slightest sign of corrosion.
Increased Risk of Flooding
Flooding can occur when water pipes corrode and break, releasing large amounts of water all at once. This can damage homes and businesses and even lead to loss of life. Corrosion is a major problem for water pipes, as it weakens the metal and makes it more susceptible to breaking. The risk of flooding is even greater in areas with high water table levels. When the ground around a pipe erodes, the pipe can be left unsupported and vulnerable to breaking.
In addition, if a pipe corrodes and breaks, the pressure of the water can cause the surrounding soil to collapse, leaving an even larger hole that can fill with water. Even worse, when pipes burst, it can cause the sewage system to back up, leading to an increased risk of sewage flooding. This can contaminate the water supply and spread disease.
As a result, having a plumber in North Las Vegas, NV, inspect your plumbing system for corrosion is essential to avoid the risk of flooding.
Engage an Expert and Take Proactive Measures
While corrosion is a serious issue, it can be prevented with regular maintenance and inspections from a professional plumber. If you have any concerns about the state of your plumbing, or if you think your pipes may be corroded, don’t hesitate to contact a professional plumber. A plumbing inspection can help identify any problems before they cause serious damage to your home or pose a health risk to you and your family.
We Are The Plumbing Professionals You Need
If you’re looking for a reliable and experienced plumber to inspect your plumbing system in North Las Vegas, NV, look no further than our team at Craig’s Plumbing. Our plumbers have the knowledge and experience to identify corrosion in your pipes and take steps to prevent it from causing damage to your home or posing a health risk to you and your family. Contact us today to schedule an inspection with one of our experienced plumbers.
We’ll be happy to answer any of your questions and help you keep your pipes in good condition.
