Common Plumbing Problems in Older Homes

Durham Region has many beautiful older homes, from charming properties in downtown Whitby to established neighbourhoods in Pickering and Oshawa. While these homes have character and charm, they often come with aging plumbing systems that require special attention and care.

Golding Plumbing has been servicing older homes throughout Durham Region for over 30 years. Here are the most common plumbing problems we encounter and how to address them.

Galvanized Steel Pipes

Many homes built before 1970 used galvanized steel pipes for water supply lines. These pipes corrode from the inside out over decades, leading to reduced water flow, discolored water, and eventually leaks. If you have galvanized pipes, repiping with modern copper or PEX is strongly recommended.

Golding Plumbing specializes in whole-house repiping, replacing outdated galvanized pipes with durable modern materials that will serve your home for decades.

Outdated Drain Systems

Older homes may have cast iron or clay drain pipes that deteriorate over time. Cast iron can rust and develop holes, while clay pipes crack and allow tree root intrusion. These problems cause recurring drain backups and can lead to sewer line failures.

Video camera inspection allows our plumbers to assess your drain pipes without excavation. Based on the findings, we recommend the most cost-effective repair or replacement strategy.

Lead Pipes and Solder

Some older Durham Region homes may still have lead water pipes or lead solder in copper pipe joints. Lead in drinking water is a serious health concern, especially for children. If your home has lead plumbing components, replacement should be a top priority.

Golding Plumbing can test for lead in your plumbing and replace any lead components with safe, modern materials. Your family's health is worth the investment.

Polybutylene Pipes

Homes built between 1978 and 1995 may have polybutylene (poly-B) pipes. These grey plastic pipes are prone to failure, especially at fittings, and many insurance companies won't cover homes with poly-B plumbing.

If your home has polybutylene pipes, we recommend proactive replacement before a failure occurs. Call (416) 669-8327 to discuss your options with Golding Plumbing.

Inadequate Venting

Older homes sometimes have plumbing venting that doesn't meet current codes. Poor venting causes slow drains, gurgling sounds, and sewer gas odors. Upgrading the venting system improves drainage performance and eliminates unpleasant smells.

Our licensed plumbers can assess your venting system and make upgrades to bring it up to current standards while preserving the character of your older home.