Galvanized Pipe and Cast Iron Drains in Tacoma Bathrooms

How to spot galvanized pipe

Look under the sink or at the water heater. Galvanized pipe is dull gray steel with threaded joints. Copper is orange-brown; PEX is plastic tubing, often red, blue or white. Low pressure at only some faucets, or rusty-tinged water after a vacation, are common hints.

What happens to it with age

Galvanized pipe builds up corrosion inside, narrowing the opening. The fittings rust first. A valve replacement can knock loose scale that then clogs a new cartridge, which is one reason we prefer to replace old supply lines up to the new valve.

Cast iron drains

Cast iron drain lines are quiet and strong, and many are still working after decades. Problems show up as rust stains, slow drains or cracks along the bottom of horizontal runs. When we remove a tub or toilet, we look at the visible sections and tell you what we see.

What we typically recommend

• Replace supply lines inside opened walls with modern pipe
• Install a new shower valve rather than reuse an old one
• Inspect the drain where it is exposed; replace sections that are cracked or badly rusted
• Bring in a licensed plumber for larger repiping beyond the bathroom