By PlumberDallas.com editorialUpdated

Typical original materials

The 1970s saw plastic drain pipe (ABS and PVC) start replacing cast iron in many new homes, with copper supply. Late in the decade, polybutylene supply pipe began appearing in some regional construction.

Commonly found: copper supply (some polybutylene late), cast iron or plastic drains. "Typical" is not a guarantee; confirm what is in your house.

How it is aging

Check for gray polybutylene supply lines, which were used roughly from the late 1970s into the 1990s and are widely recommended for replacement.

What to check

  • Exposed supply pipe at the water heater and under sinks (magnet sticks to galvanized; copper is reddish; polybutylene is gray plastic)
  • Water pressure at several fixtures
  • Sewer camera inspection for the drain and lateral
  • Age and venting of the water heater

Next steps

When should old plumbing be replaced? · identify galvanized pipe

Cost information

Published ranges with sources: Repiping Cost. These are not quotes.

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