Latest Discussions : Plumbing

07:16AM | 03/18/04

Member Since: 03/04/03
44 lifetime posts

replacing galvanized + lead pipe???

Tags: Plumbing

Hi,

I Am redong my bathroom and am down to the studs. I found galvanized pipes for the sink drain,vent, and the sink and bathtub drain in bathroom directly above. I even found a lead drain pipe that runs horizontal for about 2 foot then connects to the vertical cast iron pipe that runs straight down the wall into the basement, this lead pipe is for the bathroom toilet above the bathroom I am redoing (so it is above the ceiling I just ripped out.

My question is this: nothing leaks at all currently, so I am not sure if I should maybe replace everything, or maybe just the lead drain pipe, or the galvanized drains?? I am on a tight budget so money is definitely an issue here. These pipes are 55 years old and look to be in decent shape.

One more question.... The galvanized vents only vent gases and air so these are prolly much less likely to fail b/c they don't hosue liquids correct?

Any help on what I Should or should not replace would be extremely helpful!!

thanks in advance,

Harvey

plumber Tom

11:22AM | 03/18/04

Member Since: 05/10/03
801 lifetime posts

It's best to replace the lead drains while you have the ceiling ripped out. They will eventually give you a problem. All you have to do is cut the lead, back out the adapter from the tapping on the cast-iron and Install a PVC male adapter and a new section of drain line. As far as the galvanized goes if they are dry just serving as vents you might want to keep them in place. Good luck, in your decision.

erik peterson

04:01AM | 03/19/04

Member Since: 06/23/03
223 lifetime posts

Be very careful before disturbing the original lead if this bathroom is upstairs (between floors) Often lead was used when clearances are at a minimum.....meaning you may remove the lead and not be able to re-install standard fittings within the available space. (common mistake)