In many areas of the country today, market values of older, existing homes can be significantly less than those of comparably sized newer homes. Since this difference can represent significant savings, purchasing this type of home can be a very attractive option for those who want or need to enjoy less expensive housing.

When buying an older home, however, it is important to understand that existing condition issues have the potential to wipe away any initial savings on the purchase price. One condition issue that must always be considered when purchasing an older home is the plumbing system. If you are interested in purchasing an older home, here is some important plumbing information to help you make a more informed decision. 

What type of plumbing is currently in the older home? 

If the home was built several decades ago and still retains most or all of its original plumbing, the pipes might well be made of galvanized metal. This type of pipe was once used in residential plumbing because of it was readily available, durable, and cost-effective at the time. In the years since galvanized pipes have become somewhat infamous for interior corrosion issues that often result in poor water pressure and frequent clogs. If the home you are considering is outfitted with galvanized piping, some level of repiping is a home repair project you may need to budget for soon after your purchase. 

What type of sewer lines does the older home currently have? 

Another common plumbing problem often found in older homes is the sewer lines. Since the homeowner typically owns and is responsible for their sewer lines all the way to the street, it is important to understand what these pipes are made of and whether they have recently been updated. 

Common materials used for sewer pipes in older homes include clay, cast iron, and a material made of tar and paper, called Orangeburg, that was often used in homes built prior to World War II. If the older home you are considering has sewer pipes made of any of these older materials, replacing the pipes will likely need to be a priority to prevent the threat of frequent clogs and sewer backup issues from occurring. 

To help you determine the type and condition of the plumbing pipes in an older home you are considering, consult a reputable residential plumbing expert. They can assess the current plumbing system, look for potential issues, and help you determine when or if a complete repiping should be considered.