{"id":6110,"date":"2018-10-04T02:09:00","date_gmt":"2018-10-03T16:09:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nuflow.net\/out-of-sight-out-of-mind-leads-to-big-plumbing-problems\/"},"modified":"2018-10-04T02:09:00","modified_gmt":"2018-10-03T16:09:00","slug":"out-of-sight-out-of-mind-leads-to-big-plumbing-problems","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/nuflow.net\/out-of-sight-out-of-mind-leads-to-big-plumbing-problems\/","title":{"rendered":"Out of Sight Out of Mind Leads to Plumbing Problems"},"content":{"rendered":"

As a property manager, out of sight, out of mind always leads to big problems. Worn carpeting, broken glass, and lighting issues are easily noticeable and taken care of but plumbing problems in your building, however, are another story.<\/p>\n

Many managers will take the approach that if it is not broken, don’t worry about it. This kind of thinking can result in big problems, especially if your building was built before 2000. If the building you manage was constructed before then, it probably has water pipes that are either made of galvanised steel or copper. While both have long lifespans, they are far from indestructible.<\/p>\n

Galvanised steel pipes<\/h2>\n

Galvanised steel pipes were commonly used in building construction in the 1950s and 1960s.<\/p>\n

These type of pipes are heavy and identifiable by their grey colour. While durable, they have a lifespan that is limited and will eventually break down. Water contains minerals which react with these pipes, causing internal corrosion. Pipe problems may not manifest with a major failure initially: corrosion may first be seen in reduced water pressure. By the time you notice the reduced water pressure, the pipes may be close to being entirely clogged.<\/p>\n

Copper pipes<\/h2>\n

Copper pipes are the most common kind of water pipes used in building construction from the 1970s up until recent years. They’ve been widely used due to their light weight and strength. They absorb heat well and have a relatively long lifespan.<\/p>\n

Many copper pipe systems still in use will be now showing signs of wear. If your copper pipes have turned dark brown and\/or green, they are at risk. They’ll not only develop pin holes and start to clog, they’re known to have a number of problems relating to the lead solder that was formerly used in their installation process.<\/p>\n

Poor repairs lead to pipe failure<\/h2>\n

Along with normal wear due to age, your building can develop pipe problems as a result of previous repairs that were not carried out well. By this we mean that pipes that were not properly secured rattle with each use, and that movement will eventually lead to failure.<\/p>\n

Paying attention to your building’s pipes<\/h2>\n

Some building managers will completely ignore potential plumbing problems unless they see a leak, signs of a leak, or get a complaint about water pressure. This ‘wait and see’ attitude creates multiple future problems, including:<\/p>\n