Home » Blog » Plumbing » How To Fix Corroded Pipes

How To Fix Corroded Pipes

How To Fix Corroded Pipes

From delivering clean water to maintaining proper drainage, your plumbing pipes play a crucial role in daily life. However, when pipe corrosion affects your water supply or plumbing fixtures, it can lead to frustrating and costly plumbing problems. Corroded pipes can cause everything from discolored water and rusty buildup to leaky pipes and reduced water pressure, making it important to address these issues quickly.

For Carrollton residents, addressing these issues quickly is essential to avoid further damage, health problems from contaminated water, or extensive repairs to walls and floors caused by undetected leaks.

If you notice early signs of corrosion, such as discolored water, pipe leaks, or low water pressure, don’t wait until the damage worsens. Contact the professional plumbers at Lex Plumbing today to learn how to fix corroded pipes and restore your plumbing system’s reliability. Call us at (972) 217-8955 today and take the first step toward protecting your Carrollton home or business.

What is Pipe Corrosion?

Pipe corrosion is the gradual breakdown of plumbing pipes caused by a chemical reaction between the metal in the pipes and elements in the water or environment. This oxidation process can occur when oxygen, moisture, or minerals interact with the metal, leading to rust and weakening the structural integrity of the piping system. Common in older systems or areas with hard water, corroded copper pipes or galvanized steel pipes can compromise the entire piping system.

Factors such as pH imbalance, high water velocity, and mineral deposits from hard water can speed up this process. Over time, corrosion creates rough, uneven surfaces inside the pipes, making them more susceptible to leaks, blockages, and rust buildup.

If left unchecked, corroded pipes can compromise your water supply, damage plumbing fixtures, and result in costly repairs or pipe replacement.

What Causes Pipe Corrosion?

Pipe corrosion often stems from water quality, environmental factors, and certain household practices. Low pH levels (high water acidity) accelerate the oxidation process, while hard water leaves mineral deposits that cause rust and clogging.

Older galvanized steel or copper pipes are especially susceptible, and using chemical drain cleaners can worsen corrosion over time by damaging the pipe’s interior. Poor installation, lack of maintenance, and environmental factors like corrosive soil can also harm underground pipes. In Carrollton, TX, mineral-rich water and local conditions make pipe corrosion a frequent issue for homeowners and businesses.

Signs of Corroded Pipes

Identifying corroded pipes early can prevent costly repairs and water damage. Signs include discolored water with a reddish or brown tint, a metallic taste, and reduced water pressure caused by rust buildup or mineral deposits.

Frequent leaks, pipe bursts, and rust stains on sinks, tubs, or clothing are also common indicators. A higher water bill without increased usage may point to hidden pipe leaks. If you notice these issues, act fast to address corrosion before it causes significant plumbing problems.

What Causes Pipe Corrosion

Are Corroded Pipes Dangerous?

Corroded pipes can threaten your home, health, and budget. As corrosion worsens, it weakens your water pipes, causing leaks, bursts, and water damage to walls and floors. Corroded pipes may also contaminate your water supply with rust, lead, and harmful substances, posing health risks. Pouring chemical drain cleaners down rusty pipes can also lead to additional health risks.

Do Corroded Pipes Need to Be Replaced?

Corroded pipes often need replacement, especially if extensive damage or water quality is affected. Corrosion weakens pipes, increasing the risk of leaks and bursts. While minor issues can be addressed temporarily with a wire brush or pipe sealants, these are short-term fixes.

Persistent rust buildup, discolored water, or frequent leaks usually require pipe replacement to restore reliability. At Lex Plumbing, an experienced Carrollton plumber on our team can assess your pipes and recommend the best course to protect your water supply and avoid costly repairs.

Replacing Corroded Pipes vs. Repairing Corroded Pipes

When dealing with corroded pipes, repair or replacement depends on the damage and the condition of your plumbing system. Temporary fixes, like using baking soda and vinegar to remove rust buildup or applying pipe sealants for minor leaks, are cost-effective but may not resolve deeper issues.

Replacing corroded pipes, especially old galvanized steel or corroded copper pipes, is a long-term solution that eliminates recurring leaks, poor water pressure, and rust contamination. Modern materials like PEX and PVC resist corrosion and ensure a durable plumbing system.

Can I Fix Corroded Pipes Myself, or Do I Need a Plumber?

While it’s possible to fix rusty pipes yourself in some cases, it’s important to use the right tools and follow proper safety precautions. DIY methods like scrubbing the corroded area with a wire brush, using a soft brush for lighter rust buildup, or applying baking soda and vinegar to remove corrosion can address minor surface issues. However, once again, these fixes are temporary and may not resolve deeper damage within the plumbing system.

If the pipes have extensive rust buildup, frequent leaks, or are causing problems like discolored water or low water pressure, it’s time to call a professional plumber from Lex Plumbing. Attempting major repairs without the proper knowledge or tools can worsen the problem and lead to costly repairs. An experienced plumber has the expertise and equipment to assess the condition of your pipes and recommend the best solution, whether it’s repair, pipe lining, or replacement.

Corroded Pipe Solutions

When addressing corroded pipes, temporary solutions can provide short-term relief for minor issues. One effective method is using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to clean minor corrosion. This combination helps break down rust buildup and mineral deposits, allowing you to scrub gently with a soft brush or wire brush to remove the corrosion.

Applying pipe sealants can create a temporary barrier and prevent further water damage for small leaks caused by rust or uneven surfaces. While these solutions can temporarily fix rusty pipes, they don’t address underlying problems, making it important to monitor your plumbing pipes regularly.

Solutions for Corroded Pipes in Carrollton, TX

Professional Solutions for Corroded Pipes in Carrollton, TX

When temporary fixes for corroded pipes aren’t enough, it’s time to turn to professional solutions that address the root of the problem. In Carrollton, TX, Lex Plumbing offers a range of advanced techniques to repair or replace corroded pipes effectively:

  • Pipe Cleaning and Descaling: For minor to moderate rust buildup, pipe cleaning, and descaling are effective solutions. Using advanced tools like hydro jetting or descaling equipment, plumbers remove corrosion, rust, and mineral deposits from inside pipes. This process clears blockages, smooths uneven surfaces, and restores water flow, extending the life of your plumbing system. Pipe cleaning also helps determine if further plumbing repairs are needed.
  • Pipe Relining: Pipe relining is a modern, cost-effective solution that repairs damaged pipes without extensive excavation. A flexible, resin-coated liner is inserted into the existing pipe and hardened, creating a durable, corrosion-resistant interior surface. This minimally invasive method is ideal for isolated damage, offering a strong alternative to full pipe replacement.
  • Partial or Full Pipe Replacement: When corrosion causes extensive damage, Lex Plumbing determines whether partial or full pipe replacement is needed. Partial replacement works for localized issues, while full replacement is ideal for widespread damage or aging plumbing systems. Our plumbing experts use durable, corrosion-resistant materials like PEX and PVC to ensure long-lasting, reliable pipes.

How To Prevent Pipe Corrosion in the Future

Preventing pipe corrosion starts with proactive maintenance and addressing common causes before they lead to costly repairs. One way is for homeowners to install a water softener to combat hard water issues and regularly check water pH levels to ensure they stay within a safe range.

Replacing aging pipes with modern, corrosion-resistant materials like PEX or PVC can also significantly reduce the risk of rust buildup and leaks. Proper installation and regular maintenance by certified professionals are key to keeping your plumbing system in top condition.

Lex Plumbing offers ongoing maintenance and prevention strategies to protect your pipes, including water quality checks, inspections, and tailored solutions to keep corrosion at bay. With professional plumbers you can trust, Lex ensures your pipes stay reliable, saving you from future plumbing problems.

Why Choose Lex For All Your Pipe Repair and Replacement Needs?

Lex Plumbing is your trusted choice for diagnosing and fixing pipe corrosion issues. Our skilled technicians provide high-quality plumbing services, ensuring reliable solutions for pipe repair, pipe cleaning, or pipe replacement in Carrollton.

Beyond plumbing, Lex Air also offers electric, air conditioning, and heating services in Carrollton, providing comprehensive home solutions to keep your entire system running smoothly. With transparent pricing, professional service, and a commitment to excellent customer care, we make addressing plumbing problems stress-free and efficient.

Corroded Pipes Repair in North Texas

Corroded Pipes? Call the Carrollton Plumbing Pros at Lex Today

Addressing pipe corrosion quickly is essential to protect your home, water supply, and budget. Ignoring early signs like discolored water, low water pressure, or leaks can lead to costly repairs and significant damage.

Lex Plumbing, part of the trusted Lex Air team, is your go-to solution for plumbing, HVAC, and electrical services in Carrollton, TX. Our skilled technicians provide reliable, long-lasting pipe repair and replacement services to keep your plumbing system in top shape.

Don’t wait for small problems to become major issues—call Lex Plumbing today at (972) 217-8955 or reach out online to schedule a plumbing inspection or pipe repair consultation and get your pipes back on track.

New Refrigerant 2025

New Refrigerant 2025

Refrigerants are necessary to keep HVAC systems running smoothly, ensuring homes and businesses stay comfortable year-round. These substances make it possible for air conditioners, heat

VIEW ARTICLE