Multifamily residences such as apartments and condos contain a wide range of necessary systems for the building to function. One of these is the piping. More often than not, the pipes themselves are made out of copper. It has proven to be a reliable, durable and long-term material which is resistant to the devastating effects of running water. With this in mind, there will come a day when your property’s pipes will fail and it is time for a copper pipe repair or replacement.
Here are a few important considerations with regard to a copper pipe repair or repipe for your multifamily residence.
Types of Pitting Corrosion
Hard or moderately hard water could cause corrosion when it has a pH level between 7 and 7.8, and when the temperatures are below 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the so-called type I pitting corrosion, and it will eventually result in a failure of your pipes.
Type II pitting corrosion is going to occur when you have soft water running through your copper pipe. This is when the pH levels are below 7.2. Finally, there is type III pitting corrosion caused by cold soft water with high levels of pH.
Copper Pipe Repair or Repipe?
You may or may not need to have all of your copper pipes replaced. Your particular problem might only require a plumber to replace a small section of your piping. You may only have copper pinhole leaks in a particular section of piping. However, with aging pipes, this is only a temporary fix, as there are highly likely to be more leaks later. Often, it is best to bite the bullet and get a complete copper repipe done. This will save you in the long run, and you’ll be a hero to your tenants with leaking pipes.
With this in mind, it’s particularly important to ensure that you get a specialist to check your piping as soon as you start noticing leaks or dropping of water. These are sure signs that there is something wrong with your pipes.
If that is the case, call SageWater today and let our professionals help you make the right choice for your multifamily residence – one that makes the most financial sense and that keeps your tenants satisfied.