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Cast iron sewage waste pipes have been in use for more than 100 years. In commercial and multifamily construction applications, cast iron pipes are still installed today, mostly where large diameter requirements are required. In residential construction, cast iron waste pipes were phased out in the late 60’s and early 70’s and replaced with plastic composite products.
Once introduced, PVC plastic pipe quickly became the choice for sewage pipe in residential construction. Plastic piping makes for easier installations is cheaper to acquire and produce.
If you have an older cast iron waste pipe chances are that it’s still in good condition. Under normal conditions, good quality cast iron sewage pipes have a reliable service life of 100 years or more. When we think of water to metal contact we think of corrosion. Cast iron waste pipes does rust on the interior, but when it does, the rust forms a protective barrier layer to protect the remainder of the pipe from further rusting. Most cast iron waste pipes have really thick walls and can handle normal rust and low pressure waste disposal.
There are conditions that cause the life span of cast waste pipes to diminish. Sub-surface erosion or ground shift can cause joint damage or breaks. When seen from above ground, trees are often regarded as aesthetically pleasing, below grade, tree roots seek water and have enormous strength. If there is a leak in the waste system and the tree can sense it, it will surly seek the water source and invade it. For a few hundred dollars, the only way to obtain an idea of how your caste iron pipe is performing is to have it scoped with a camera. This method will provide information about the pipes interior, but the exterior will still be covered in dirt. The only way to view the health of the pipes exterior is to excavate.
For the most part, cast iron systems are very reliable and cause few problems. If you are experiencing some issues it’s best to have a plumber in to discuss the system.
This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.
