Utah’s historic neighborhoods are full of charm, but owning an older home often means dealing with antiquated plumbing systems. Those hidden pipes can bring unique challenges that you may not expect to face as a modern homeowner. If you live in an older Utah home or are considering buying one, it’s helpful to be aware of common plumbing problems. In this guide, we’ll cover the most significant issues that can arise and what you can do to resolve them.
Outdated Pipe Materials
Outdated piping is a common source of plumbing concerns in Utah’s older homes. Many houses built before the 1970s still use galvanized steel pipes in their plumbing systems. While these were once the gold standard, they corrode over time, causing rust buildup inside them that can restrict water flow and lead to leaks.
Some older homes may even have lead pipes. This is more common in buildings constructed before the 1950s. Lead was commonly used for water service lines, but is now known to pose health risks because the lead from the pipes can leach into your drinking water.
If you’re concerned about outdated piping in your plumbing system, check for discolored or rusty water, especially when you first turn on the tap. Low water pressure throughout your home can signal a buildup inside corroded pipes. One of our licensed plumbers at Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing can inspect your piping and help you plan a safe and efficient repiping project using modern materials. Repiping is a significant investment, but it protects your water quality and prevents leaks from occurring that could cause expensive damage later on.
Tree Root Intrusions
Older neighborhoods often have mature trees lining the streets. This is great for enhancing curb appeal, but it can be tough on old sewer lines. Clay and cast-iron pipes, which were once common, can crack or shift over time. Once that happens, nearby tree roots can push their way inside the pipes, looking for moisture, which can cause clogs, backups, and even complete collapses.
Watch for frequent drain backups in your plumbing system, gurgling noises from your toilets, or sewage odors in your yard. If you notice patches of unusually lush grass above your sewer line, that could be another clue. Our team will perform a professional drain cleaning and camera inspection to locate the exact problem. If roots are an issue, we may recommend trenchless sewer line repair or full replacement, depending on the extent of the damage.
Old Fixtures or Failing Hardware
If you have an older home, chances are that the original fixtures are still in use. Over the decades, mineral deposits from hard water can clog faucet aerators and showerheads, lowering your water pressure. Worn washers and valves in toilets and sinks can lead to constant drips or running toilets, wasting water and increasing your utility bills.
Leaky faucets, running toilets, and low-pressure showers are all signs your fixtures may be past their prime. Consider upgrading to modern, water-saving fixtures that can help reduce your water usage. Newer faucets, showerheads, and toilets use less water while delivering better performance.
Corroded or Leaky Water Heaters
Older homes often have water heaters that are decades old. Hard water accelerates sediment buildup inside the tank, which can lead to corrosion, leaks, or even total system failure.
Rust-colored hot water, rumbling noises from your water heater, or water pooling around the base of the tank all point to trouble. If your water heater is over 10 years old, it’s wise to have it inspected by one of our plumbers. If corrosion is severe, a replacement is the safest option.
Leaky Pipes or a Shifting Foundation
Utah’s clay-rich soil can expand and contract with moisture levels, which can cause your home’s foundation to shift slightly over time. This movement can put stress on old plumbing pipes, especially those under the slab, leading to hidden leaks that are difficult to locate.
Watch for unexplained wet spots on floors, mildew odors, or a spike in your water bill. These signs may mean a hidden slab leak. We can do a leak detection test to pinpoint the problem without tearing up your entire floor. Early detection saves you from bigger structural repairs down the road.
Sags in the Sewer Line
Older sewer lines may develop sags, where part of the pipe dips and collects waste and debris. In Utah’s older homes, this often occurs with clay or cast-iron pipes that shift over time due to soil movement or settling.
Frequent drain clogs or slow drains throughout the house are common symptoms that may indicate a sag in the system. A plumber from our team can run a sewer camera through your line to check for low spots. In some cases, trenchless pipe lining can fix the issue. Severe sags may require digging up and replacing the affected section of the line.
Hidden Leaks
Plumbing leaks don’t always make themselves obvious, especially in older homes with original pipes. Small pinhole leaks behind walls or under floors can lead to mold growth, warped drywall, and structural damage if left unchecked. Watch your living space for peeling paint, bubbling wallpaper, musty smells, or unexplained damp spots on walls or ceilings. If you feel your system has a hidden leak, contact us at Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing right away. We utilize advanced leak detection equipment to locate and repair the issue with minimal damage to your walls or flooring.
Preventing Plumbing Problems in Older Utah Homes
Older homes come with quirks, but when it comes to your plumbing, it’s always best to get expert help before small issues become big repairs. If you notice low water pressure, clogs, rusty water, or higher-than-usual water bills, don’t wait. At Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing, our team can assess your system, recommend repairs or upgrades, and help keep your charming Utah home comfortable and problem-free.
You can’t stop time, but you can reduce your risk of major plumbing surprises. Here are a few ways to protect your home from plumbing issues:
- Schedule annual inspections on your plumbing system
- Schedule a professional drain cleaning to prevent damage to old pipes
- Install water softeners to reduce mineral buildup
- Replace aging fixtures gradually to improve efficiency and prevent leaks
Contact a Dependable Plumber
Owning an older home can be deeply rewarding, but staying ahead of plumbing problems with professional help is key to protecting your investment. Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing is the oldest operating plumbing business in Utah County. If you’d like to have your home repiped, a new water heater installed, or you just need a repair, our team is here to help. Reach out to us today, and let our professionals keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly!
