Plumbing in Historic and Older Homes
The short answer
Older homes often have cast-iron drains, galvanized supply piping, and sometimes a galvanized or lead water service. Each has its own fix: descaling for scaled cast iron, repiping for failing supply lines, and, in Columbus, full replacement for lead and galvanized water services.
Cast-iron drains
Cast iron builds up scale on the inside over the years, which narrows the pipe and catches debris. Descaling removes the scale and restores as much usable flow as is practical. Old cast iron can still be porous or defective, so descaling carries no clog-free warranty.
Galvanized supply piping
Galvanized steel supply lines can narrow inside and cause low pressure or discolored water. Inside the house, the fix is often repiping, priced after a site assessment.
The water service
In Columbus, City of Columbus Water & Power currently states that lead and galvanized water service lines can't be repaired; they must be fully replaced with compliant material.
Working around finished spaces
Plaster, trim and original floors make access part of the scope. Before work starts, we explain what access is likely needed, and restoration is discussed as part of the scope.
Services on this topic
When your plumbing is a disaster, call the Master
Clogged, Backed Up, or Flooding? Call the Master.
From a stubborn kitchen drain to a collapsed sewer line, the DrainMaster crew has Greater Columbus covered. Phones are answered after hours, and we schedule a licensed local plumber as soon as one is available.
- We explain what we find in plain English
- You approve the price before any work starts
- Licensed & insured Ohio plumbers