Many homes in Rhode Island, especially in historic areas, are several decades old—or even centuries old. While older homes offer character and charm, they often come with aging plumbing systems that require special attention. From corroded pipes to outdated fixtures, these problems can lead to inefficiencies, leaks and costly repairs if left unaddressed.
Below, the pros at CW Cummings Plumbing discuss five of the most common plumbing issues in older homes and how homeowners can fix or upgrade their systems for improved performance and longevity.
1. Corroded or Failing Pipes
Many older homes were built with galvanized steel, lead or polybutylene pipes. Over time, these materials corrode, rust and become brittle, leading to leaks, low water pressure and potential health concerns.
If your home still has old plumbing, repiping with modern materials like copper or PEX is the best solution. Copper is highly durable and long-lasting, while PEX is flexible and resistant to corrosion. A professional can assess your home’s piping and recommend the best replacement option.
2. Outdated Fixtures and Inefficient Toilets
Older faucets, toilets and showerheads are not only prone to wear and leaks but also use significantly more water than modern models. This leads to higher utility bills and unnecessary water waste.
Upgrading to low-flow toilets, faucets and showerheads can reduce water consumption without sacrificing performance. Modern fixtures also come in styles that can maintain the vintage charm of older homes while improving efficiency.
3. Poor Water Pressure
Many older homes experience low water pressure, often due to corroded pipes, outdated supply lines or buildup inside pipes that restricts flow. This makes everyday tasks like showering, laundry and washing dishes frustrating.
A plumber can determine if the issue is due to mineral buildup, pipe corrosion or old pressure regulators. Solutions may include pipe cleaning, replacing worn-out pipes, or installing a new pressure-boosting system.
4. Aging or Failing Sewer Lines
Older homes often have clay, cast iron or Orangeburg sewer pipes, which are prone to root intrusion, collapse and deterioration over time. If you notice frequent drain clogs, slow toilets or sewage smells, your sewer line may be failing.
A professional plumber can perform a camera inspection to check for damage. Trenchless sewer repair or full sewer line replacement may be necessary to prevent sewage backups and costly damage.
5. Lack of Proper Drain Venting
In older homes, plumbing systems may not be properly vented, leading to slow drains, gurgling sounds and sewer gas odors inside the home. This can be a serious issue affecting both plumbing performance and indoor air quality.
A plumber can assess whether additional vent pipes or air admittance valves (AAVs) need to be installed to improve drainage and airflow. These modern solutions help older plumbing systems function more efficiently.
Upgrade Your Older Home’s Plumbing with CW Cummings Plumbing
If your home is dealing with aging pipes, low water pressure or outdated plumbing fixtures, CW Cummings Plumbing is here to help. Our expert plumbers specialize in modernizing older plumbing systems while preserving the character of historic homes.
Call (401) 828-7730 or send us a message today to schedule an inspection and get your plumbing system in top shape!
