Know Your Plumbing
Tap the numbered spots on the diagram to learn about each part of your home’s water system. See what it does, how long it lasts, and what to watch for.
How old is your house?
Move the slider and see where your plumbing falls on a typical lifespan chart.
What was your house built with?
| Era | Supply pipes | Drain pipes | What to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-1950 | Galvanized steel, lead (rare) | Cast iron, clay, lead | Galvanized corrodes from inside, narrowing flow over time. If still original, have it evaluated. |
| 1950s–1970s | Galvanized steel, early copper | Cast iron, early ABS plastic | Galvanized supply pipes likely past useful life. Copper sections may still be fine. Cast iron drain lines hold up but can crack. |
| 1970s–1980s | Copper, polybutylene (1970s-mid-1990s) | Cast iron, ABS plastic | Polybutylene (gray plastic) is known to fail without warning. If you have it, have it assessed. Copper from this era is generally still sound. |
| 1990s–2000s | Copper, CPVC, early PEX | ABS and PVC plastic | CPVC can become brittle with age. PEX from this era is generally reliable. Drain lines are plastic and long-lasting. |
| 2000s–present | PEX, copper | PVC, ABS plastic | Modern materials are durable. Main concern at this age is fixtures, water heaters, and sewer line inspection near the 20-year mark. |
Table represents general construction norms. Your home may differ. A licensed plumber can identify your actual pipe materials on a visit.