Do cast iron pipes need to be replaced?

Based on the fact that all cast iron sewer pipes will need to be replaced, we strongly recommend that cast iron pipe under a concrete slab be replaced and not repaired.

How do you replace a cast iron sewer line?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: We removed all of the old cast iron pipe in fittings. We're ready to install the new cast iron pipe. So one thing to consider is always start from where the water is flowing to.

How do I fix a leaky cast iron sewer line?

If you have a small section of visible cast iron drain pipe with a leak or crack, you may repair the pipe yourself. But only if the problem is small and isolated, if there are leaks and cracks everywhere, you better call the professionals. You can use cast iron repair paste or plumber’s epoxy to fix holes or leaks.

What is the life expectancy of cast iron sewer pipe?

between 50 and 100 years

Wear and tear is normal in residential pipe systems. 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.

Should I replace cast iron sewer 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.

How do I replace the drain pipe under my house?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: Down the cut ahead at the end of the drain snake will scrape the inside of the pipe. And remove the last of those tree roots to leave a nice clean pipe.

How do you replace cast iron sewer pipe in basement?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: What you got to do is you got to get the old cast-iron I'll see when you cut a slot two slots and break that piece out of the kind it takes the stress off you're able to hammer.

How do I convert cast iron to PVC?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: You zip ties to mark the cut around the pipe. And add strapping to support both sides to cut use a reciprocating saw with a metal cutting blade rated for cast iron.

How do you change cast iron to PVC?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: So cast iron to PVC the flex coupling this makes life a lot easier this is another kind of flexible coupling it has a stainless steel shroud around and two clamps.

How much does it cost to Repipe a house?

The average cost to replumb a house will vary between $5,000 to $7,000. However, the total cost of repiping a house may be as high as $15,000 depending on a variety of factors. These variables include pipe location, number of bathrooms, quantity of fixtures, and how many stories a home includes.

Is cast iron pipe better than PVC?

Cast iron is thick and dense. Water flowing through it won’t cause as much vibration as it would in a PVC pipe. These vibrations are what lead to noise, so if sound dampening is a major concern, cast iron is the better choice.

Are cast iron pipes safe?

Cast iron pipes don’t pose health concerns such as the worry about lead leaching into your water. However, when cast iron comes to the end of its lifespan, it’s susceptible to rust and other damage. When you notice the following issues, it’s time to consider pipe repair or replacement: Discolored Water.

Should you buy a home with cast iron pipes?

Overall, it is perfectly fine to buy a house with cast iron pipes. Regardless of what plumbing a house has, be it cast iron, copper, or PVC the plumbing is susceptible to suddenly needing to be replaced. It’s highly recommended to have the plumbing inspected prior to buying a house.

Can cast iron pipe be encased in concrete?

Pipes in the walls may have been replaced with PVC, but pipes encased in or buried below concrete may still be cast iron. You should also consider a pipe inspection before committing to other big home improvement projects that could bust your budget right before your pipes burst.

Do plumbers still use cast iron pipes?

Cast iron is durable and strong. Many of the municipal pipelines and commercial buildings across the US still have cast iron pipes working just fine. Another big plus is they’re quiet!

What are the disadvantages of cast iron pipes?

Despite the advantages of strength and durability, though, a big disadvantage of cast iron is that it is susceptible to rust over time. In homes that have cast iron piping, if a pipe rusts all the way through, that section can be replaced with plastic piping, like PVC.

Do cast iron pipes have lead?

What is EPA Doing? Lead has been banned in US drinking water infrastructure since 1986, but it is still present in the joints of old cast iron pipes, lead service lines, and the indoor plumbing of old homes, brass fittings, and lead-based solder used on copper pipes.

When did builders stop using cast iron plumbing?

Modern Replacement Pipes



Cast iron pipes finally went out of fashion in the 1980s. They were replaced by Polyvinyl Chloride plastic (PVC), which can be made quicker and more easily.

How do I know if my cast iron pipe is bad?

If your faucet or toilet water is brown, orange or otherwise discolored, your cast iron pipes could be significantly rusted. Cast iron is known to have rust issues, so this should be checked by a professional plumber immediately.