Replacing Old Pipes: What California Homeowners Need to Know
The Problem with Old Pipes
If your home was built before the 1980s, there’s a chance the pipes behind your walls and under your yard are outdated.
And if they’re made from materials like galvanized steel, Kitec, or Orangeburg, you could be one bad leak away from a plumbing disaster.
Plumbing systems don’t last forever.
Even if your water flows smoothly, older piping materials can rust, burst, clog, or collapse—sometimes without warning.
California homes deal with everything from earthquakes to hard water.
So, staying on top of plumbing issues is extra important here.
The Top 3 Outdated Plumbing Materials
and How to Spot Them
For your checklist to work, you need a schedule for plumbing checks on your rental property.
The regular maintenance can be quarterly, twice a year, or at the start and end of the tenancy.
Here are different categories of checks to do during plumbing inspections.
Galvanized Steel Pipe Replacement
Galvanized steel pipes were used in homes mostly before the 1960s.
They’re made of steel and coated in zinc to help prevent rust.
But over time, that zinc wears away and the steel underneath corrodes.
Common signs you need a galvanized pipe replacement:
- Low water pressure
- Rust-colored water
- Water that tastes or smells metallic
- Leaks from inside the wall or basement ceiling
- Your house is 65 years old or more
If your house still has galvanized pipes, it’s only a matter of time before you have plumbing issues.
They’re outdated and often fail without warning.
Replacing old pipes with materials like copper pipes, or PEX will improve water pressure and give you a cleaner water supply.
Kitec Plumbing Replacement
Kitec plumbing was a flexible pipe system used in homes built or remodeled between 1995 and 2007.
Kitec has plastic on the outside and aluminum in the middle.
But the brass fittings would corrode and fail, leading to sudden water pipe bursts.
Common signs you may have Kitec pipes:
- Bright orange, blue, or gray plastic piping
- Plumbing installed during the late ’90s or early 2000s
- Leaks at fittings or water damage behind walls
Kitec pipes are known for sudden issues and water damage claims are often rejected by home insurance companies.
If your home has Kitec plumbing, think about replacing it.
This can help you avoid expensive and messy plumbing issues.
Orangeburg Pipe Replacement
Orangeburg pipe was used in sewer lines from the 1940s to 1974.
It’s constructed from layers of wood pulp and pitch.
This is basically tar-coated paper and not made to last long term.
Here’s what makes Orangeburg such a problem:
- It easily collapses under pressure
- It’s weak against tree roots and shifting soil
- It causes frequent sewer backups and clogs
If your sewer system was installed between 1940 and 1974, you may have Orangeburg pipes.
Orangeburg sewer pipes are fragile and well past their life expectancy.
Replacing them with PVC or HDPE will provide a strong, root-resistant sewer line for decades.
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You might think, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
But with outdated plumbing, what you don’t see can absolutely hurt you.
Here’s why California homeowners are choosing home repipe services now:
- Prevent water damage from leaks and bursts
- Enjoy better water pressure and quality
- Boost your home’s value
- Get your plumbing up to current building codes
- Protect your investment from future plumbing disasters
Live in California? Here’s What to Do Next
If you own a home in Northern California and think you have galvanized steel, Kitec, or Orangeburg pipes, act now.
Don’t wait for a costly problem to happen.
Our licensed professional plumbers can inspect your plumbing system.
We’ll confirm what type of pipes you have, and give you options for replacing them with modern, long-lasting pipe materials.
Key Takeaways
Outdated pipes might be out of sight, but they shouldn’t be out of mind.
Updating your plumbing is one of the best ways to protect your home and improve your everyday comfort.
Need help figuring out what kind of pipes you have?
Call a local plumbing expert to check if you need to replace galvanized pipes, Kitec plumbing, or Orangeburg pipes.
Replacing existing piping is cost effective and could save you thousands in the long run.
Your Trusted Northern California Plumber
Have questions about your home’s plumbing?
Contact Millennium Plumbing Specialist for a plumbing inspection and expert advice on replacing old pipes in California.
Proudly serving Sacramento, Elk Grove, Fair Oaks, Folsom, Carmichael, Rancho Cordova, and surrounding areas.
FAQs
How can I tell what kind of pipes I have in my home?
Galvanized steel pipes are usually gray and threaded at the joints. Kitec pipes are brightly colored—often orange, blue, or gray—and may be labeled with “Kitec” or “PEX-AL-PEX.” Orangeburg pipes are only found in sewer lines and can look like black or dark brown paper-like tubing. A licensed plumber can inspect your plumbing system and tell you exactly what kind of pipes you have.
Do I really need to replace galvanized pipes if they haven’t leaked yet?
Yes. Even if you haven’t had a leak yet, galvanized steel pipes are probably corroding from the inside. That can cause water pressure issues, rusty water, and pipe failure over time. Replacing them before a major issue saves money and protects your home from water damage.
Why is Kitec plumbing a problem?
Kitec systems often fail due to corrosion in the brass fittings. These pipes are known to burst without warning, especially in homes with hard water. Most insurance companies now recommend Kitec plumbing replacement, and some won’t cover water damage if you still have it
What happens if I don’t replace Orangeburg sewer pipes?
Orangeburg pipes get soft and brittle over time. They can collapse, get crushed by soil, or let tree roots break in. If your sewer line backs up often or you smell sewage in the yard, it could be a sign of a failed Orangeburg line.
Can you replace pipes without tearing up all my walls or yard?
In many cases, yes. We use modern techniques like trenchless sewer replacement and PEX repiping to minimize disruption to your home and landscape. We’ll explain your options before starting any work.
How much does it cost to replace old pipes?
The cost depends on the type of pipes, how much needs to be replaced, and how easy they are to access. We will give you an honest quote based on your home’s setup—no hidden fees.
How long does it take to repipe a house?
Most repiping jobs take 1–3 days, depending on the size of the home and the type of system. Sewer line replacements (like for Orangeburg pipes) may take a little longer, especially if digging is needed.
Is pipe replacement covered by insurance?
Typically, insurance doesn’t cover the cost of replacing outdated plumbing, but it may cover water damage caused by sudden pipe failure. Some insurance providers won’t renew policies for homes with known materials like Kitec or Orangeburg—so updating your plumbing could help with coverage.
