Hey folks, Stephen Jordan here, the guy behind SMJ Plumbing. I hope y’all are doing well! Today, I want to chat about something that’s pretty close to my heart— the quirks of older homes in our beautiful state of Louisiana. Don’t get me wrong; there’s a whole lot of character in these historic homes. The unique architecture, the stories they tell, they’re all part of our rich culture. But let’s face it: time takes a toll on plumbing.
Those Good Ol’ Pipes Have Seen Better Days
Many older homes around here still have their original plumbing. While that might sound charming, it can lead to a variety of problems like leaks, clogs, and even burst pipes. I’m sure you’ve heard your floorboards creak and your windows rattle, but have you ever stopped to think about the groans and clanks that come from your pipes? Those pipes are telling you they might need some TLC.
Galvanized Steel—A Blast from the Past
Back in the day, galvanized steel was the material of choice for plumbing pipes. However, these pipes have a tendency to rust and corrode over time. When they do, they restrict water flow, leading to low water pressure or discolored water. If you see any signs of this, it might be time to give us a call and have those pipes inspected. You don’t want a minor inconvenience to turn into a major headache.
Clay Sewer Lines—A Hidden Surprise
Now, let’s talk about something you can’t see but could have a significant impact: your sewer lines. Older homes often have clay sewer lines, which are particularly susceptible to root intrusion from trees and plants. So if you have beautiful, large trees around your property, their roots might be getting a little too cozy with your sewer lines, leading to clogs and backups.
Water Heaters—A Ticking Time Bomb?
Ah, the water heater, the unsung hero of comfort in every home. Most water heaters have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years. If you’re living in an older home and you don’t know the last time the water heater was replaced, you’re playing with fire—figuratively and literally! A failing water heater is not just an inconvenience; it can cause significant damage if it leaks or bursts.
DIY Fixes Are Not Always Your Friend
I know, I know, we all love a good DIY project. But jury-rigged solutions can only go so far and might make the problems worse in the long run. Patching up old pipes with duct tape or using chemical drain cleaners can provide a temporary fix but may lead to bigger issues that require professional intervention.
Let’s Keep Those Homes Standing Proud
These houses have stood the test of time and weathered many storms—both literal and metaphorical. They deserve the best care we can give them. If you suspect you’re facing any of these common issues, or just want peace of mind, give us a shout. We’d be more than happy to give your plumbing a thorough check-up and help you understand what needs to be done to keep it in tip-top shape.
Look, I’m not just a plumber; I’m part of this community. I take pride in helping preserve the homes that make Louisiana what it is. Let’s keep these houses standing for another hundred years, shall we?