Living in an Older Home? Here’s What Plumbing Issues to Watch For
Morris, United States - August 8, 2025 / Escape Plumbing & Heating, LLC /
Homeowners in Woodbury, Connecticut, who live in older homes may unknowingly be facing hidden plumbing issues that can lead to serious water damage and costly repairs. Escape Plumbing, a trusted Woodbury plumber, is raising awareness of the most common problems found in aging plumbing systems—and what homeowners can do about them.
Galvanized Pipes Are a Rusty Problem
Many homes built before the 1960s were outfitted with galvanized steel pipes, which corrode from the inside out over time. As corrosion builds, it can restrict water flow, lead to discolored water, and eventually cause leaks. “We see a lot of older homes in Woodbury that still have galvanized pipes,” said Eric Cook from Escape Plumbing. “They often look fine from the outside, but inside, they’re a ticking time bomb.”
According to the American Water Works Association, galvanized pipes have an average lifespan of 40–50 years and are highly prone to internal corrosion, especially in areas with hard water.
Switching to modern materials like PEX or copper piping can help prevent future issues and improve overall water quality.
Outdated Fixtures May Be Wasting Water
Old toilets, faucets, and showerheads are often inefficient and prone to leaks. These outdated fixtures can contribute to high water bills and wasted resources. According to the EPA, replacing older toilets with WaterSense models can save up to 13,000 gallons of water per year for the average household.
Modern fixtures not only reduce water waste but also improve pressure and overall performance.
The National Association of Home Builders reports that plumbing fixtures generally last 15–20 years, meaning many homes in Woodbury may already be overdue for an upgrade.
Sewer Lines: Roots, Cracks, and Collapses
Clay or cast-iron sewer lines—common in homes over 50 years old—are susceptible to root intrusion, cracking, and even collapse. Slow drains, foul odors, or soggy patches in the yard may be warning signs of a bigger problem.
“We recommend having a sewer line inspection if your home is older or if you’re noticing persistent drain issues,” said Cook.
Modern camera inspections can quickly identify the source of sewer problems before they escalate.
Poor Water Pressure Often Has a Hidden Cause
Low water pressure in older homes is often tied to sediment buildup, internal pipe corrosion, or failing pressure regulators. While annoying, it can also signal serious underlying problems.
Professional diagnosis by a Woodbury plumbing expert can pinpoint the issue and provide solutions.
A Proactive Approach Saves Money
Staying ahead of plumbing problems can prevent emergencies and extend the life of your home’s plumbing system. Escape Plumbing encourages homeowners in Woodbury and the surrounding areas to schedule preventative inspections and address small issues before they turn into major repairs.
For reliable plumbing services from a local team that understands the needs of older homes, trust the experts at Escape Plumbing. From inspections to repiping and everything in between, they’re here to help Woodbury homeowners protect their most valuable investment.
Learn more about Escape Plumbing’s full-service plumbing solutions.
About Escape Plumbing
Escape Plumbing is a locally owned and operated plumbing company serving homeowners in Woodbury, Southbury, and surrounding Litchfield County towns. With a reputation for honest service, expert workmanship, and fast response times, Escape Plumbing helps families “escape” their plumbing problems—no matter how old the house may be.
Contact Information:
Escape Plumbing & Heating, LLC
41 E Shore Rd
Morris, CT 06763
United States
Eric Cook
(860) 567-8020
https://escapeplumbing.com
