Are cast iron sewer pipes bad?

Cast iron pipes can corrode over time compromising their structural integrity. It is estimated that about 76 million homes in America have cast iron pipes that must be replaced. These 76 million homes risk severe plumbing problems.

How long do cast iron sewer pipes last?

Cast Iron: Cast iron pipes last between 80-100 years, and are built to withstand a high amount of water pressure. However, like galvanized steel, cast iron piping has been found to be susceptible to rust over time.

Is Cast Iron Pipe a good choice for sewer line?

Clay and cast-iron are older types of sewer piping and can remain in the ground as long as they are still moving the waste with no leaks. Orangeburg sewer pipe is worth replacing if you have the ground opened up, even if the Orangeburg appears to be in good shape. Even older homes might have newer plastic sewer pipe.

What is the life cycle of cast iron sewer pipes?

There is some difference when it comes to assessing the life span of cast iron sewer pipes since more conservative estimates peg the range at anywhere from 50 to 65 years . More optimistic sources bump those numbers up to roughly 75 years , with some lasting a full century.

How do you replace cast iron drain pipes?

You can replace an old cast iron sink with a new stainless steel model in a few hours. Turn off the water to the kitchen sink at the valves below it. Open the faucet and drain out the water from within the pipes. Set a bucket below the P-trap to catch any trapped water.

Can you replace a section of cast iron drain pipe?

Basically, cast iron cannot be “repaired” – you have to replace a section, or replace it with plastic pipe using (typically) similar slip-over couplers to the one shown above. One thing you do NOT know if you just band it (commonly first plugging the leak hole with an epoxy putty) is if this is indicative of a local flaw in the pipe,…

What is PVC DWV?

DWV stands for drain waste vent and it refers to a specific type of PVC pipe and fittings designed for non-pressurized applications like venting and drainage for sanitation. DWV fittings are generally less expensive than standard pressurized schedule 40 PVC pipe, though it is similar in appearance.