At HM Plumbing, we understand how important it is to feel confident about the systems behind your walls. Whether you’re dealing with a small leak or planning a full remodel, knowing the condition of your pipes is critical, and three key factors can’t be ignored: corrosion, rust, and age. These silent forces can turn a solid plumbing system into a ticking time bomb.
If you’re concerned about plumbing in your Atlanta home, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place. Over time, even robust plumbing systems can silently deteriorate without obvious warning signs. That’s why it’s essential to stay proactive before small issues become major headaches.
Corrosion: The Hidden Destroyer
Corrosion happens when metal reacts with water, oxygen, or certain chemicals. Over time, even the most durable plumbing materials (galvanized steel or copper) can degrade. You may not notice it at first. But over time, corrosion weakens pipe walls, reduces water pressure, and increases the risk of leaks. In some cases, it even introduces metal particles into your drinking water.
The signs are subtle: discolored water, an unusual taste, or tiny wet spots on your walls or floors. If your home is more than 20 years old, corrosion may already be creeping through your system without warning.
Rust: A Visible Warning Sign
Rust is a specific form of corrosion, typically affecting iron or steel pipes. It’s what gives your water that orange or reddish tint. While it might not always be dangerous, it’s a clear signal that your pipes are aging and breaking down. Ignoring rust can lead to burst pipes, property damage, and costly emergency repairs down the line.
Rust can also collect in your water heater, reducing efficiency and shortening the unit’s lifespan. If you notice rust flakes in your tap water or around fixtures, it’s time to take a closer look at your plumbing. These visible signs often mean the issue is more widespread than it appears.
Age: The Silent Clock Ticking
Every plumbing system has a life expectancy. Galvanized steel pipes typically last 20–50 years, copper pipes can reach 70–80 years, and PVC may last 25–40 years. But even the best materials degrade faster under Atlanta’s humid climate and water conditions.
If your home is older, or if you’re unsure about when the plumbing was last updated, it’s worth having it inspected. Small updates now can save you thousands later in water damage, mold remediation, or emergency repairs.
Why HM Plumbing?
At HM Plumbing, we approach every job with integrity and transparency. We’ll walk through your system with you, explain what we see, and offer honest recommendations—never upsells. Our service professionals are trained to spot early signs of corrosion, rust, and age so you can make informed decisions that protect your home and your budget. From single-family homes to commercial buildings, we tailor our solutions to meet the unique needs of every client.
Whether you’re remodeling, repairing, or just curious about the state of your pipes, you deserve answers you can trust and service you can rely on.
Contact HM Plumbing today for your plumbing needs. Serving with Integrity.