How Long Should Your Plumbing Last?

Whether you’re searching for a new home or just want to make sure yours is in fighting shape, you may wonder how long the plumbing is supposed to last before replacement. Let’s look at the most common components of home plumbing and talk about when you should plan to update.

Faucets 

As long as it isn’t damaged more than normal wear and tear, you can expect a bathroom or kitchen faucet to last 15-20 years. But if you’re constantly getting it repaired or dealing with issues caused by it (like mineral build up), it’s better to just get a new one installed.

Toilets

A toilet should last 15-20 years before needing to be replaced. If you notice any cracks or issues like constant running or wobbliness persist outside of maintenance, a new one is in order.

Pipes

The answer here depends on the material the pipes are made of, and even then there’s a wide range. If you have more common modern PVC pipes you’re looking at 25-50 years, copper will get you 70-80 years, and cast iron or galvanized steel can last up to 100 years in ideal circumstances. Really, it’ll be up to your observations. Any of the following are signs you might be nearing the end of your plumbing’s lifespan: bad water pressure, constant leaks, and discolored water.

You should be able to get away with most of your adult life in a home without replacing many plumbing components, but if you do need or want to upgrade, call us to get the process started.