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Preventing Pipe Corrosion

What Is Pipe Corrosion?

Pipe corrosion happens naturally in many homes. Refined metal slowly degrades due to external factors, including chemical or electrochemical processes. In both home and commercial plumbing systems, it may have an impact on metal piping materials. Even copper pipes, intended to last 50 years or longer, may corrode.

Additionally, the quality of water can be impacted by pipe corrosion, which can lead to leaks and clogs. Corrosion may result in cloudiness, discoloration, a bitter aftertaste, and an offensive odor. Homeowners may run the danger of health problems if pipe corrosion persists, depending on the sort of metal the pipes are composed of. However, corroded copper pipes will cause the water to become blue or stained, which is usually apparent long before health issues arise. 

Pipe Coatings and Protective Linings

protectHomeowners must first understand the differences between internal and external pipe coating before selecting whether pipe coating is the best option. Exterior pipe coating is utilized to shield the metal of a pipe from a corrosive environment. The inside lining of the pipe protects it from corrosive liquids. There are occasions when only one is required, and there are times when both are necessary.

External coatings for pipes can shield them from mechanical stress, corrosion, and erosion. Applying metallic or non-metallic materials to a pipe’s exterior service, which might be seamless or welded, is known as an external coating.

The materials that are used most frequently to cover pipes’ exterior include:

  • Paints, varnishes, lacquers, resins, polymers, and other non-metallic pipe coatings
  • Organometallic pipe coatings, like paints that contain metal pigments
  • Chemical alterations like chromatin or phosphating
  • Physical-chemical alterations

Internal pipe lining is most frequently done with the following materials:

  • Liquid epoxy 
  • Teflon 
  • Cement mortar
  • Polyethylene

Water Softeners

softenerHomeowners can determine if they are dealing with water conditioning problems by using a straightforward test available from most plumbers or even as kits at hardware stores.

Often, the main offender causing corrosion is hard water. When calcium or other minerals are dissolved in abundance, the water is said to be “hard.” The pipes corrode as a result of this calcium reaction with them. Fixtures will eventually stop working, and the water pressure will decrease.

Untreated water can destroy the pipes in the house and the appliances. By removing these dangerous elements from the water, a water softener helps prevent corrosion of the pipes. A water softener will protect the home’s supply lines.

Plumbing Maintenance

Homeowners shouldn’t ignore or grow accustomed to corroded pipes. Corrosion is frequently the stage of the plumbing system’s collapse. Untreated plumbing issues can lead to more expensive repairs and other problems. If the situation is not resolved, it can become much more serious. 

Homeowners should contact a plumbing expert to visit, assess the plumbing system, and advise on the best action to prevent corrosion. 

About All Clear Plumbing

Plumbing and heating issues are a headache for anyone, so having a good company to call is critical. At All Clear Plumbing, the goal for over half a century is to provide area property owners with the expert, reliable plumbing and heating services they need. Call them today for plumbing service in Belleville, New Jersey.