Introduction: Plumbing Problems Don’t Age Gracefully
Living in Canby means enjoying the charm of a close-knit Oregon community—but like many older towns, it also means dealing with aging plumbing infrastructure. Many homes in Canby still rely on original piping materials that may no longer be safe or efficient. If your home was built more than 40 years ago, there’s a strong chance your plumbing system may be due for a major update.
Ignoring old or deteriorating pipes can lead to severe water damage, mold, costly repairs, and even health hazards. Recognizing the early warning signs can save homeowners thousands of dollars. Here’s what you need to know about when it’s time to replace your plumbing pipes—and how Einstein Pros Canby can help.
1. Discolored Water
If you notice brown, yellow, or reddish water coming from your taps, it could be a sign of corrosion inside your pipes. Rust flakes off from the interior of galvanized steel or iron pipes and contaminates your water supply. Not only is this unsightly—it’s also a major health concern.
According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), galvanized steel pipes have a lifespan of only 20 to 50 years. If your home falls within that range, discolored water is a major red flag.
2. Frequent Leaks and Repairs
One or two leaks over the years are normal. But if you’re calling a plumber regularly for small repairs, it’s a sign that the system as a whole is deteriorating. Repeated leaks usually point to larger-scale corrosion or pipe failure.
If you’ve had multiple patch jobs within a short timeframe, you’re likely spending more on repairs than it would cost to replace the system. It’s time to consider whole-home repiping.
3. Low Water Pressure
A noticeable drop in water pressure throughout your home could indicate buildup or corrosion inside your pipes. This narrows the flow and prevents water from traveling freely. You might also notice reduced pressure in only one area of the house—that often signals a localized pipe blockage or leak.
Angi’s Pipe Replacement Guide confirms that corrosion and sediment buildup can drastically reduce flow in older pipes, making it harder for your plumbing system to function efficiently.
4. Visible Pipe Damage or Corrosion
Check exposed plumbing in your basement, crawl space, or utility areas. If you see stains, flaking, discoloration, or greenish-blue corrosion on copper pipes, those are strong indicators of wear and tear. Corroded pipes are weakened and more likely to burst.
If pipes look brittle or compromised, don’t wait for a major leak to act.
5. Strange Noises in the Pipes
Gurgling, rattling, or banging noises inside your walls can signal air or sediment trapped inside old pipes. Water hammer (a loud banging when turning off a faucet) also indicates failing pressure regulation due to deteriorating valves or aging pipe systems.
These sounds are not just annoying—they’re telling you your pipes may be near failure.
6. Mold, Mildew, or Water Stains
Unexplained mold or mildew growth, especially around walls or ceilings, often points to hidden leaks. Small, slow leaks behind walls can go unnoticed for months but still create significant damage and health risks.
Water stains, soft drywall, or warping floors should prompt immediate investigation—and in many cases, repiping.
7. You Have Lead or Polybutylene Pipes
If your home was built before the 1980s, there’s a chance it has outdated and hazardous piping materials. Lead pipes, which are highly toxic, were banned from use in the U.S. in 1986. Polybutylene pipes, used in the 1970s to 1990s, are prone to unexpected rupture and have been the subject of class-action lawsuits.
Replacing these materials is not just a matter of efficiency—it’s a safety necessity.
Pipe Lifespans by Material
Here’s a helpful reference from InterNACHI on how long different types of pipes typically last:
- Copper: 50–70 years
- Brass: 40–60 years
- Galvanized steel: 20–50 years
- PVC: Indefinitely (in many cases)
- Cast iron: 75–100 years (but prone to corrosion)
Why Hire Einstein Pros Canby for Pipe Replacement?
Replacing your plumbing pipes is a big investment—but one that pays off in peace of mind, property value, and water quality. At Einstein Pros Canby, we specialize in repiping homes with modern, durable materials like PEX and copper. Our licensed and experienced plumbers handle everything from inspection to installation with minimal disruption to your daily life.
We also offer video pipe inspection and leak detection services to assess your current system before starting major work. With transparent pricing, expert workmanship, and excellent customer service, we’ve become a trusted name in Canby plumbing.
Final Thoughts
The signs of aging plumbing are often subtle—until they become emergencies. If you’re experiencing discolored water, frequent leaks, poor pressure, or suspicious noises, don’t wait. Contact Einstein Pros Canby today for a comprehensive plumbing inspection.
A proactive approach to pipe replacement can prevent disasters, save money, and keep your home safe for years to come.