It’s a rainy Saturday afternoon, and you’re cozied up on the couch with a hot cup of tea, engrossed in your favorite movie. Suddenly, you hear a gurgling sound echoing from the walls, followed by a foul odor that invades your living room.
Panic sets in as you realize it’s yet another plumbing disaster caused by your aging cast iron pipes. But fear not! In this post, we’ll reveal the secrets to extending the lifespan of your cast iron pipes and keeping your plumbing system functioning smoothly for years to come.
When it comes to household plumbing, cast iron pipes have long been the workhorses. Yet, over time, they can succumb to corrosion, leading to leaks, blockages, and costly repairs. But with a little knowledge and proactive care, you can delay the inevitable and ensure your cast iron pipes stand the test of time.
Cast iron pipes can last up to 100 years. To get the longest life out of your cast iron pipes, there are several maintenance steps homeowners can follow.
You can extend the lifespan of your cast iron pipes by keeping them clean and clog-free. Avoiding chemical cleaners is also a great way to preserve the integrity of cast iron. Additional steps homeowners can take include adding water softeners to their water and flushing their water heaters.
Regularly inspecting your cast iron pipes and using proper cleaning methods will extend their lifespan. This will keep money in your pocket and protect your home from costly repairs and plumbing replacements.
Table of Contents
How Long Do Cast Iron Pipes Last?
If maintained well, cast iron pipes can last 80-100 years. Cast iron pipes are most commonly found in older homes.
There are several benefits to having cast iron pipes, including sound-proof plumbing. However, over time cast iron erodes. It is impossible to completely prevent the erosion of your cast iron pipes, but there are several steps you can take to extend their lifetime.
How to Extend the Life of Your Cast Iron Pipes?
You can extend the life of your cast iron pipes by keeping them clean and clear of clogs. Chemicals will corrode cast iron pipes, so using environmentally friendly cleaners will make them last longer. There are additional options to preserve your cast iron pipes like properly insulating them and using water softeners.
Regularly Clean Your Pipes
Sediment builds up on cast iron pipes more quickly than PVC and copper pipes. Build-up within your pipes will cause water to run more slowly and keep water in the pipes longer. It can also lead to clogs.
Furthermore, the acid in water eats away at the cast iron. Water sitting in the pipes will expedite the erosion process. Cleaning your cast iron pipes regularly will lessen the effects of acidic water.
Plumbers offer professional pipe cleaning services that use high-pressure jets to remove sediment along the inside of the pipe walls. There are also environmentally safe, chemical-free cleaners that can be purchased and flushed down the pipes.
Use Natural Drain Cleaners
Chemicals erode cast iron. Avoid using chemical declogging agents like Drano if you have cast iron pipes. The best way to address a clog is to use a snake or auger to break apart the debris causing the clog. If you cannot access the clog or pipe, you may have to use a drain cleaner. If that is the case, make sure to pick one that is environmentally safe with minimal or no chemical additives.
It is also a good idea to use natural cleaners when cleaning sinks, bathtubs, and showers. When you wash away the cleaner, it goes through your cast iron pipes. Therefore, using cleaners with bleach or other harsh chemicals can also negatively affect your cast iron pipes.
Insulate Your Pipes For Winter
Insulating your cast iron pipes will help regulate their temperature. As the weather changes from hot to cold, this can cause expansion or shrinkage to the pipes and fittings in your home. Insulating the pipes will help regulate the temperature to prevent these shifts that could cause damage.
Common choices for pipe insulation are polyethylene foam. Polyethylene foam is sold in various diameters and fits around your pipes. They help to hold in heat. Be sure to measure the diameter of your cast iron pipes before purchasing foam. You may need to special order the appropriate size for your cast iron pipes since they tend to be larger than PVC or copper pipes.
Polyethylene foam is usually available in 7ft lengths. You will need multiple pieces to cover the entire length of your pipe. Use foil pipe insulation tape to connect different sections of polyethylene foam. The foil tape will trap in heat and ensure a snug connection between coverings.
Regularly Unclog Your Drains
Cast iron pipes are prone to sediment build-up. As sediment gets more and more built up, water flow is constricted and there is a higher chance of clogs.
Address clogs in your cast iron pipes quickly. Attempt to remove blockages with drain snakes or augers. These are available in large lengths and are the best choice for unclogging pipes. Do not use a de-clogger unless it is absolutely necessary. If you do choose to use one, pick an all-natural formula. Never send chemicals through your cast iron pipes.
Large clogs may require the help of a professional plumber. Clearing clogs safely will preserve your cast iron pipes.
Install a Water Softener
Water softeners work by breaking down build-up in pipes. Soft water will absorb hard minerals like iron and magnesium. The process is slow but effective. Begin using a water softener as soon as you move into a home with cast iron pipes. The sooner you start, the faster you will see results.
Eliminating calcium from iron and magnesium build-ups will help keep your pipes clean and prevent clogs.
Flush Your Water Heater Regularly
Sediment can build up in your water heater. Flushing it regularly will help keep it clean, improve its efficiency, and extend the life of your cast iron pipes. It is simple to flush your water heater. You do not need anything other than a garden hose and vinegar.
Step 1: Create a safe workspace
Before you flush the water heater, make sure to disconnect the power source from the heater. Then, turn off the water. The shut-off valve is usually located on the top of the water heater.
Step 2: Hook up the garden hose and drain
Connect the garden hose to the valve and open it. The water will flow out of the water heater. If there is a lot of sediment build-up in the water heater, this may be a slow process.
Step 3: Check the inside of the water heater
If there is a lot of sediment in your water heater, pour a gallon of white vinegar into it. Let the white vinegar sit in the water heater for 6 hours. This will help break down the sediment. Make sure you close off the water valve so the vinegar doesn’t flow out.
Step 4: Flush the water heater
Turn the water back on so it can flow into the heater. Turn on the closest hot water tap. Allow the water heater to fill and drain.
Step 5: Let the water heater fill up naturally
Once the water heater is flushed, close up the water release valve, turn the water supply on, and reconnect the power to the water heater. Once refilled, your water heater will have been flushed.
Flushing your water heater prevents sediment from traveling from the water heater into your cast iron pipes. It also allows your water heater to work more efficiently. Depending on the sediment levels in your water heater, you will want to flush it 2-3 times per year.
Keep Up With Regular Maintenance
Cast iron pipes are not designed to last forever. As they age, small issues will crop up including minor leaks and cracks. Regularly inspecting your cast iron pipes will ensure you find problems quickly and can fix them before they become a bigger problem.
Cracks and leaks can be easily fixed by using waterproof export sealant and rust-preventative paint. These repairs are easy to DIY and are inexpensive.
Form a regular schedule of cleaning and inspecting your cast iron pipes to extend the lifetime of your plumbing.
How Much Does It Cost To Repair Your Cast Iron Pipes?
Repairs on cast iron pipes can range from easy and cheap to extremely expensive. Catching issues early is the best way to prevent costly repairs.
Small cracks and leaks are repaired with waterproof epoxy. The top brand for repairing cast iron pipes is J-B Weld 8265S Original Cold-Weld Steel Reinforced Epoxy. It is just $5.99 on Amazon and is also easily found at most hardware stores. After applying the epoxy, adding rust-preventive primer and waterproof enamel paint from Rustoleum will seal the repair. The primer is Rust-Oleum Rust Inhibitor 10.25-Ounce Spray and the paint is Rust-Oleum Professional High-Performance Enamel Spray Paint, Gloss Black.
You can also hire a professional to fix your cast iron pipes. Simple repairs start at $255. However, factors like accessibility and the size of the damage can affect the price.
If you find a serious problem with your pipes like multiple leaks, large cracks, and heavy rust, contact a professional plumber to find the best option for your budget. Usually, it is recommended to replace severely damaged cast iron pipes. Depending on the size of the pipe, this can cost thousands of dollars.
How To Know When You Need to Replace Your Cast Iron Pipes
Regular maintenance and inspection of your cast iron pipes will help identify any issues. However, severe problems with your cast iron pipes can be identified by smell, discolored water, draining issues, and water or sewage backups.
While cast iron pipes can last up to a century, they do need to be replaced eventually. It is important to replace them as soon as major problems arise to prevent damage to the rest of your home.
Slow Drainage
If your water is draining slowly, it might be time to replace your cast iron pipes. Check to see if there is a clog first. If there is not a clog in the pipe, you are probably dealing with a more serious issue.
Lots of small leaks and cracks throughout the cast iron pipe can cause slow draining. Heavy sediment build-up can also reduce the amount of water that can flow through the pipes. If the build-up is too much and the integrity of the pipe is compromised, it will not be able to be cleaned.
Call in a plumber to assess the situation and see if there is a repair option before deciding on a complete replacement of your cast iron pipes.
Bad Smell From Pipes
If you are experiencing a strong sulfur odor that resembles rotten eggs coming from your pipes, it may be time to replace them. Sewer gases should be trapped in your pipes and undetectable. If sewer gases are leaking into your home, there is an issue with the integrity of your cast iron pipes. It usually means there are cracks in the fittings or pipes.
Sewer gases are toxic and should not be breathed in. Once you detect a foul odor, call in a professional.
Frequent Leaks
Patching a leak here or it is easy to do with cast iron pipes. Unfortunately, once you repair one, there are usually 10 more on the horizon. Cast iron pipes are usually installed at the same time. That means if one is eroding, the others are too. If you are experiencing a lot of leaks, it is time to replace your cast iron pipes. DIY repairs will no longer solve the problem.
If you suddenly notice a lot of mold on your walls or baseboards, you probably have a plumbing leak. As the pipes leak into the walls and floor mold grows. When mold is present, there is probably a large leak and it is time to replace your cast iron pipes.
Discolored Water
Discolored water can be caused by several factors including contaminated well water and a dirty hot water heater. If you eliminate both of those causes and still end up with brown or orange water, the problem is in your cast iron pipes.
Cast iron is known to rust. Discolored water from cast iron pipes is probably rust flaking off the inner walls of the pipes and mixing into the water.
Unfortunately, there isn’t a repair for rusted pipes. Rust is a sign of deterioration. The walls of the pipes are weakened and most likely close to severe cracking.
Sewage Backup
If you experience sewage or water backups it might be time to replace your cast iron pipes. Backups mean the water is not flowing and draining properly. This can be caused by numerous issues like heavy sediment build-up, cracks, and leaks. When sewage mixes with your water, it contaminates your water supply. It is extremely dangerous. Call a plumber immediately.
Sewage can also be leaked into your yard. If you notice odd growth around your house, like fast-growing grass, get your sewer lines inspected. This may be a sign that your cast iron sewer pipe is leaking. The growth is attributed to the fertilizing effects of sewage. You may also notice sinking soil. If this happens, your cast iron pipes are compromised and need to be replaced.
Cast iron pipes are a durable and long-lasting option for plumbing pipes. Properly maintaining and servicing your cast iron pipes will extend their lifespan and prevent the need for costly repairs.
Ruben Marziano
Ruben has a diverse background in the home services industry, with experience running a construction company, a kitchen and bath showroom, and a moving and relocation company. This breadth of experience has provided him with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in various areas of home improvement in general and specifically in the heating and plumbing niche.
FAQs
Can cast iron pipes last 100 years? ›
One frequently asked question is “How long do cast iron drain pipes last?” Cast iron waste pipes last anywhere between 50 and 100 years. However, it may be time to replace cast iron pipes long before their lifetime is up.
How do you preserve cast iron pipes? ›One of the best ways to prevent old cast iron pipes from rusting is to get cast iron pipe lining done on your plumbing system. This pipe lining can be done with a trenchless machine that doesn't involve tearing up your property. We use the latest technology to upgrade your pipes and protect them against corrosion.
How long does a cast iron pipe last? ›Cast iron pipes are expected to last as long as 100 years.
How do you keep cast iron pipes from rusting? ›- Clean and Dry Surfaces Regularly. Remember, for oxygen to cause problems, it needs a bridge. ...
- Protect Pipes from Scratches. Scratches and gashes expose bare iron to oxidation. ...
- Reinforce Metals. ...
- Conduct Regular Maintenance. ...
- Insulate Pipes.
In 1980, cast iron pipes were no longer the pipe of choice. Builders and plumbers replaced cast iron with rigid PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride plastic), which is easier to make, can be made quickly, is harder than other options, and has greater tensile strength.
Should I replace cast iron sewer pipe with PVC? ›In-House Plumbing Company recommends that homeowners should not waste money on repairing their cast iron pipes but instead replace them with PVC pipes. They also explain how they have discovered a significant amount of cast iron pipes that are worn out and rusted which need to be replaced, not repaired.
Can hydro jetting damage cast iron pipes? ›Hydro-jetting is safe for all types of drain pipes, including cast iron and PVC. Hydro-jetting can even be used to clean out kitchen drain stacks.
Why do old cast iron pipes crack? ›Old cast iron pipes with heavy rust buildup and corrosion will eventually develop hairline cracks, which are also subject to the ravages of time. Eventually, those hairline cracks become wider and longer, until eventually the pipes begin to leak or fail completely.
What does vinegar do to cast iron pipes? ›Pour white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray the corroded areas of the pipe with the vinegar, sprinkle salt on top and then scrub the areas with a scouring pad. The acidity of the vinegar helps break down rust while the salt both degrades the rust and increases the friction of the scouring pad.
What eats cast iron pipes? ›Corrosion is largely caused by hydrogen sulfide gas from sewage, which collects inside pipes and oxidizes. Sulfuric acid eats away at pipe walls, weakening and cracking them at the seam.
What does bleach do to cast iron pipes? ›
Bleach can react with other substances in your pipes, potentially release fumes, and further plug up the system. There are environmentally friendly bleaches and home solutions you can use to clean your pipes. Pouring bleach down them will do much more harm than good.
How do I know if my cast iron pipes are bad? ›- Leaks or water damage.
- Foul smells (especially a “rotten egg” smell)
- Water-stained carpet, rug, or mat.
- Cracked, raised, or loose floor tiles.
- Stained or discolored tile (or tile grout)
- Slow drains or drain/toilet backups.
- Raw sewage coming out of drains.
- Water around floor drain in basement.
Yes, cast iron is a durable and strong material, but it has some drawbacks. The most common issue is that it deteriorates over time – often unseen from the pipe's interior. This means you may not even know you have a problem until you have a sewer backup.
What damages cast iron pipes? ›Over time, cast iron pipes can become compacted inside with debris buildup and rust, leading to burst pipes, sewage back-ups, and sluggish drains. Tree roots are another problem that can only be addressed with clearing options like hydrojetting or picote descaling.
Why do cast iron pipes fail? ›Cast Iron Pipe Failure Causes
The most frequent cause of pipe deterioration is corrosion. Common sources of corrosion are hydrogen sulfide and other acids. Salt and moisture-rich environments can accelerate corrosion. In some areas it is common for pipes to fail prematurely, in 25 years or less.
Using vinegar mixed with water is one of the best iron cast cleaner methods you can employ to get rid of unwanted rusting on your pans. So, if you find yourself stuck with rust, pull out the vinegar and have it shining like new again in no time!
What do you use to seal a cast iron pipe? ›So, you'll want to use a steel epoxy putty repair stick. What's that you ask? It's a polymer compound that when mixed, creates a super strong bonding agent that will fix any crack/leak/hole in any cast iron pipe.
What is the oldest plumbing still in use? ›Ancient Roman Aqueducts
The Cloaca Maxima is the oldest plumbing system that's still in use today, and amazingly some of the original masonry work is still holding together! The Romans also created aqueducts, adding a new level of ingenuity to the oldest known plumbing systems.
Some molds can develop continuously with just a tiny amount of water. If your cast iron plumbing system leaks, it may become the source of that water, causing mold to grow in your house. Replacing your cast iron plumbing will prevent this and keep you healthy and safe.
How many homes have cast iron pipes? ›The Cast Iron Pipe Problem
If you live in a home that was built before 1975, chances are your plumbing system consists of cast iron pipes. 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.
Can cast iron sewer pipe be relined? ›
In some cases, the rust inside the pipes can be removed to extend their service life. If the pipes rust all the way through, they must be replaced or relined.
Can you replace a section of cast iron pipe with PVC? ›Durable – Polyvinyl Chloride can last up to 70 years or more. Replacing cast iron pipe is expensive as they deteriorate from oxidization. Cleaner – Because PVC doesn't corrode or rust, you won't get any metal in your sewage or drinking pipes. It's a non-toxic material, safe to use for all kinds of plumbing purposes.
Is Hydrojetting better than snaking? ›Snaking and hydro jetting both clear basic clogs and improve drainage speeds. However, hydro jetting is a more powerful and versatile method for sewer cleaning. Hydro jetting not only removes clogs but also reduces the natural build-up of grease and minerals lining the interior of any sewer line.
Does liquid plumber harm cast iron pipes? ›Fortunately, Liquid-Plumr® is safe for all pipe types except rubber, which is present in some fittings. So whether you've got to force a hair clog through a 50-year-old set of iron pipes or just get your drain draining faster, Liquid-Plumr® will always be the right choice for your house's plumbing.
Is Hydro jetting worth it? ›Benefits of Hydro-Jetting
Not only will the hydro-jet clear a blockage in your pipes, but the hydro-jet will also clean the build-up sticking to your pipe walls. Clean pipes are less likely to clog. In short, hydro-jetting might protect you against future plumbing issues.
The black coating helps prevent corrosion. Black iron pipe used to be found in water lines, but has been much more popular for gas since the advent of copper, CPVC, and PEX.
What is a disadvantage of cast iron pipe? ›One of the primary disadvantages of cast iron pipes is that they are susceptible to rust. Rust can cause the pipes to become weak and eventually leak. Additionally, rust can cause the water flowing through the pipes to become contaminated.
How do you keep cast iron from cracking? ›By heating and cooling your workpiece evenly, it is less likely to gain stresses and crack. Avoid long localized exposures to high heat. Move the workpiece around and make small welds at a time. Cool your workpiece slowly, in an oven.
Will CLR damage cast iron pipes? ›We do not recommend using CLR Calcium, Lime and Rust Remover on cast iron. The acids in CLR Calcium, Lime and Rust Remover can compromise the metal.
What happens if you leave cast iron in vinegar too long? ›The vinegar solution will dissolve the rust, but once that's gone, it can penetrate further and start eating away at the original cast surface of the pan, the ultimate death sentence for your skillet.
What is the white stuff on my cast iron pipe? ›
Answer: Hard Water
That white buildup that often encrusts the surfaces of your fixtures is calcite residue from hard water.
NOPE. Drano® will not damage pipes or plumbing. Drano® products are powerful enough to dissolve nasty clogs, but they will not harm your plastic or metal pipes, so there's no need to worry. In fact, Drano® Max Gel Clog Remover contains a special ingredient that prevents pipe corrosion.
Is Drano OK for cast iron pipes? ›SHOWN: (new) Cast Iron Sewer Pipe — Common In Homes Built 1970 & Earlier. Will Drano Harm Metal Pipes Made Of Cast-Iron? YES.
What is the best drain cleaner for old pipes? ›Experts agree: Drano Max Gel is the best overall drain cleaner because it works quickly to get rid of tough clogs. This reliable and effective cleaner is a thick gel that goes deep in sinks, pipes, and drains to reach the source of the clog and completely dissolve it.
Is pouring bleach down the toilet bad? ›Pouring bleach down the drain is dangerous since it reacts with substances in your pipes, release toxic fumes when mixed with other household cleaners, clog or damage your drains and pipes, and kill the good bacteria of your septic system.
Is Green Gobbler safe for cast iron pipes? ›Our formula is non-corrosive to plumbing and an excellent alternative to traditional bleach-based drain openers. NO BLEACH OR FUMES: Odorless and free of fumes, it's safe for PVC, ABS, copper and cast iron household pipes. The formula doesn't contain bleach or sodium hydroxide.
Is it bad to buy a house with cast iron pipes? ›Defective cast iron pipes can cause sewage backups, water damage, and sometimes even structural damage. In addition, cracks in the pipe are common and can allow sewer gases into the home which carry a foul odor and can also cause health problems.
Does cast iron pipe rust inside? ›As cast iron and steel pipes age, rust forms on the inside, creating a crust of “tubercules.” Tuberculation slows water flow, eroding the metal and increasing the chances of corrosion.
Why PVC is better than cast iron pipe? ›The interior of PVC pipes are much smoother microscopically than cast iron pipes, resulting in less fluid friction and more consistent flow rates. Pressure will therefore not fluctuate as much and pipe performance will be better.
What corrodes cast iron pipes? ›The surface of the pipe has some brownish-orange rust.” This is a classic case of pipe corrosion. Corrosion is largely caused by hydrogen sulfide gas from sewage, which collects inside pipes and oxidizes. Sulfuric acid eats away at pipe walls, weakening and cracking them at the seam.
What causes cast iron pipes to fail? ›
Cast Iron Pipe Failure Causes
The most frequent cause of pipe deterioration is corrosion. Common sources of corrosion are hydrogen sulfide and other acids. Salt and moisture-rich environments can accelerate corrosion. In some areas it is common for pipes to fail prematurely, in 25 years or less.
Should You Repair or Replace Cast Iron Drain Pipes? Because cast iron piping was only designed to last 50 years, it's best to replace your pipes sooner rather than later if you start to see deterioration. Many factors lead to the breakdown of cast iron pipes.
How do I know if my cast iron pipe is bad? ›- Leaks or water damage.
- Foul smells (especially a “rotten egg” smell)
- Water-stained carpet, rug, or mat.
- Cracked, raised, or loose floor tiles.
- Stained or discolored tile (or tile grout)
- Slow drains or drain/toilet backups.
- Raw sewage coming out of drains.
- Water around floor drain in basement.
Chemical reactions cause tuberculation in cast iron pipes and other metallic pipes, such as ductile iron. Bacteria in a pipeline's water reacts to the iron found in the pipe's interior. The result of this reaction is a buildup inside the pipeline. Over time, this buildup grows thicker and disrupts the pipe's flow.
Can tree roots penetrate cast iron pipe? ›Cement, clay, or cast iron pipes on the other hand, degrade significantly over time. They are all especially susceptible to tree root intrusion, and are easy for roots to penetrate, causing the material to crack and crumble over time.
What is the white stuff on cast iron pipe? ›Answer: Hard Water
That white buildup that often encrusts the surfaces of your fixtures is calcite residue from hard water.