Cast iron pipe is pipe made predominantly from gray cast iron. It was historically used as a pressure pipe for transmission of water, gas and sewage, and as a water drainage pipe during the 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th centuries.

Can you use cast iron pipe for water?

Cast iron pipes, while durable, do fail over time. They can develop rust, which slows water drainage. Tree roots and cast iron do not make good partners. If you find galvanized or cast iron pipes in your home, don’t panic and don’t start tearing out the plumbing.

What is a disadvantage of cast iron pipe?

Despite the advantages of strength and durability, though, a big disadvantage of cast iron is that it is susceptible to rust over time. In homes that have cast iron piping, if a pipe rusts all the way through, that section can be replaced with plastic piping, like PVC.

When did they use cast iron pipes?

Cast iron was also a popular material at this time. The first cast iron pipes were installed at Versailles in 1664. In the United States, the first cast iron pipes were installed in Philadelphia in the 1810s to replace deteriorated spruce log pipes.

Why was cast iron used for plumbing?

Why Cast Iron Pipes were Used

Cast iron was considered one of the strongest options when transporting water and sewage over great distances (tens or hundreds of miles). They were strong, durable, and able to stand up to the pressure when the lines were full. They were also difficult to damage when they were first used.

Should I buy a home with cast iron pipes?

Overall, it is perfectly fine to buy a house with cast iron pipes. Regardless of what plumbing a house has, be it cast iron, copper, or PVC the plumbing is susceptible to suddenly needing to be replaced. It’s highly recommended to have the plumbing inspected prior to buying a house.

Which pipe is best for house plumbing?

Copper. Copper pipes are probably the most traditional plumbing pipe used due to their extensive duration and reliability. They provide superior corrosion resistance, great material to be used for hot and cold water, and it can be managed easily.

When did they stop putting cast iron pipes in houses?

Cast iron pipes finally went out of fashion in the 1980s. They were replaced by Polyvinyl Chloride plastic (PVC), which can be made quicker and more easily. PVC has the required strength to be durable for long-term use, and is cheaper and easier to make, making them the preferred option overcast iron.

How do I know if my house has cast iron pipes?

Cast iron pipes are easily recognizable as they have a black finish along with a bulge at each section of the pipe known as the hubs. However, there is the potential for rust that forms along the surface to wear away at the cast iron’s black finish, making it rust-hued.

Is cast iron pipe still used?

High-quality cast iron pipe is approved for plumbing and is still used today. However, about 50 years ago imported steel made its way to the US. The imported steel was not subjected to the same quality standards but became popular due to its lower cost.

Which is better cast iron or PVC pipe?

Cast iron is thick and dense. Water flowing through it won’t cause as much vibration as it would in a PVC pipe. These vibrations are what lead to noise, so if sound dampening is a major concern, cast iron is the better choice.

How long does a cast iron water pipe last?

between 50 and 100 years

Deterioration of cast iron pipes is normal after just 25 years. Wear and tear is normal in residential pipe systems. One frequently asked question is “How long do cast iron drain pipes last?” Cast iron waste pipes last anywhere between 50 and 100 years.