It always seems easier to put off remodeling and home improvement projects than to go through the work of replacing fixtures, repairing damage, or calling the plumber to take care of a situation that has been on the “to-do” list for months. Let’s face it. We all have more important and pressing things to take care of, right? Maybe not. Putting off certain things, particularly when it comes to our plumbing, can end up causing us a lot of trouble down the road. It’s time to examine your bathroom plumbing and determine if you need to take some action and remedy any problems that have been in the back of your mind for a while.

Here are five common signals that tell you it’s time for your bathroom plumbing to be updated, replaced, or repaired.

  1. Leaks: 

    Leaks are very common in bathrooms. A leak could be due to a minor problem or mean you need to replace your entire plumbing system. It just depends on the situation. If it is due to corrosion or rust that has been present for a long time, it may be causing water damage that can lead to weakened structural elements which will cost you thousands of dollars to repair. Learn other reasons for leaks by checking out the blog, “Why is My Faucet Leaking?”

  1. Mold or Mildew:

    If you see mold or smell mildew in your bathroom, you probably need to replace your plumbing, especially if the mold is growing on walls or ceilings. Be sure and deal with the problem immediately, before it worsens. Small leaks due to clogged drains or poor sealing around toilets and showers can quickly lead to mold and mildew. If water gets into the floor of your bathroom, it could compromise its structural integrity.

  1. Outdated Fixtures:

    Bathroom plumbing fixtures don’t last forever. Eventually, they will need to be replaced. Sediment and chlorine can build up inside showerheads and faucets and reduce water pressure or cause a discoloration in water that flows through them. The buildup can also cause leaking and even pose a threat to your health. Rust is another sign that it is time to get a replacement. Make sure that you turn your water off if attempting to replace these fixtures on your own. If you need help choosing which fixtures are best for you or want them professionally installed, call Cyclone Contacting and we will send out one of our professional plumbers to assist you.

  1. Low Water Pressure: 

    This may mean that your pipes are corroding, which is a serious problem. Steel pipes will eventually degrade over time. When this happens, the diameter of the pipe narrows, allowing for less water flow and lowering water pressure. If this is the problem, you probably need to have your piping system replaced.

    If you have low water pressure, it could simply mean your faucet or showerhead is clogged. To test this on your own, grab a plastic bag and fill it with vinegar. Next, tie the bag over the fixture and leave it on there for a few hours. This should remedy the problem if it is truly due to a clog. If this doesn’t fix the problem, it’s time to call in the professionals. Other problems may include clogs within the pipes, a burst pipe, or a damaged water heater.

  1. Poor Water Quality: 

    If the water that is coming out of any of your bathroom fixtures is rusty, discolored or smells bad (like rotten eggs), you might need to replace your water heater. Other reasons for poor water quality could include pipe corrosion, old/outdated fixtures, exposure to contaminants, or high iron content. Call a professional plumber to diagnose the problem right away.

If you are concerned about any of your bathroom plumbing fixtures, your water heater, or your plumbing system, contact Cyclone Contracting today! We are located in Ames, Iowa and happily serve Story County and the surrounding areas.