What Causes a Buildup in Cast Iron Pipes?
Posted in Pipe Repair, on May 13, 2023
Cast iron pipes have been commonly used in homes and buildings for their durability and longevity. However, every material has a limited lifespan, particularly cast iron. Cast iron pipes can clog and deteriorate over time, causing various plumbing issues requiring a professional plumber. The buildup of debris and corrosion is a significant concern in cast iron pipes leading to blockages and pipe failure. Our blog explores the causes behind cast iron pipe buildup and options for professional cast iron pipe repair by reliable plumbing companies like Broward Plumbing. Here’s a low-down on cast iron pipes and modern plumbing solutions to keep your plumbing flowing smoothly.
Calcium & Mineral Pipe Buildup
Unfortunately, cast iron pipes are prone to calcium deposits or limescale accumulation. The calcium and minerals in water can leave behind deposits that can build up gradually. Over time, these deposits can restrict water flow, leading to blockages and persistent clogs. Calcium buildup is particularly prevalent in areas with hard water containing high levels of minerals. In severe cases, calcium buildup can trigger nasty backups and burst pipes that require immediate cast iron pipe repair or replacement from a trusted plumbing company.
What is Scale and What’s It Doing in Your Pipes?
The water is considered hard in Broward County, Boca Raton, and throughout South Florida, with an average water hardness between 180-210 ppm. This means the water is saturated with hard minerals such as calcium. This is a natural phenomenon that leaves many property owners in need of plumbing services more frequently than in regions where the water is softer. The presence of minerals in the water and the corrosion of cast iron pipes that were popular up until the 1980s can cause scale to collect and get stuck inside drain pipes, eventually blocking the flow of water in your property, which requires cast iron pipe repair from a trained plumber in Boca Raton to be reversed.
Debris & Grease Pipe Clogs
Along with mineral buildup, grease and debris can also accumulate to cause pipe obstructions. Over the years, drain pipes can collect waste like dirt, hair, soap scum, food particles, sediment, and grease. Grease solidifies in the pipes and mixes with other materials to form clogs. Grease, food particles, soap scum, and dirt also adhere to the pipe walls and reduce the internal diameter and water flow.
Rust & Corrosion
Cast iron pipes are highly prone to corrosion and rust. Hydrogen sulfide gasses are created in these pipes that eventually oxidize. This oxidation with iron produces sulfuric acid, which is very corrosive. This rusts and pits the lines from within, leading to breaks and leaks. The only solution is timely pipe repair or replacement from a professional plumbing company like Broward Plumbing.
Signs You Need Cast Iron Pipe Repair
Recognizing the signs of cast iron pipe problems early on is crucial to addressing them promptly and preventing further damage. Some common indicators that signal the need for cast iron pipe repair our plumbers in Boca Raton and Broward county warn property owners of include:
- Frequent clogs: Recurring clogs in your drains or toilets could be a warning sign of limescale buildup.
- Discolored Water: Brown, rusty, or yellow-colored water in the kitchen or bath indicates corrosion and scale problems in your old cast iron pipes.
- Slow drainage: Sluggish water drainage is another common pipe corrosion and buildup symptom. Look out for water pooling in sinks & showers or slow emptying of the toilet bowl on flushing.
- Unpleasant odors: Stagnant water due to partial blockages or buildup in the cast iron pipes can cause foul smells from drains and plumbing. Cracks can also cause smelly sewer gas to escape into your home.
- Water leaks in pipe joints: Scale buildup and corrosion can also show up as leaks from pipe joints.
Cast Iron Pipe Repair Plumbers in Boca Raton
Broward Plumbing is your one-stop shop for cast iron pipe repair, descaling, and PVC pipe installation across Broward County. Our advanced drain camera inspection technology allows us to assess the interior condition of cast iron pipes to determine the extent of buildup and other underlying issues. We offer expert pipe repair services, including pipe lining, pipe bursting, and PVC pipe installation. Our state-of-the-art hydro jetting services can thoroughly clean cast iron pipes from within.
Choose the trusted plumbers at Broward when you need effective cast iron pipe repair solutions.