PLUMBING
4 min read
Galvanized pipes in older homes: what to know
Many homes built before the 1960s have galvanized steel supply pipes. How to identify them, why they fail, and the options.
How to tell
Galvanized pipe is dull gray with threaded fittings. A magnet sticks to it but not to copper or plastic. Check where the pipes are visible, such as near the water heater or under sinks.
Why they fail
The zinc coating wears away over decades, and the steel corrodes from the inside. Buildup narrows the pipe, and corrosion eventually causes leaks.
Common symptoms
- Low water pressure, especially on upper floors
- Brown or discolored water after the tap has been off
- Leaks at threaded joints
Options
Replacing only the worst sections can buy time, but connections between old and new pipe need care. When the whole system is aging, a full repipe is often the more permanent fix.