Older homes in Kingston can be absolutely wonderful
Beautiful wood built-in structures, treasures often hidden throughout the house, unique craftsmanship, stunning tile or window surrounds and beautiful, big airy rooms. Old homes often have a character to them unlike any other and our often nestled in neighborhoods full of charm. Kingston is no exception and there are some beautiful homes in the area; if it’s an older home is what you are looking for, you do have a lovely selection, but one thing that people don’t think about often is the plumbing.
The fact remains that older homes mean old plumbing and if nothing has been updated you may be in for quite a sticker shock! There are some things that you should be aware of if you’re moving into an old home and here at John the plumber Kingston we’re going to give you some tips of what to look for, pre purchase.
The biggest one is old sewer drains
Often older homes have cast iron or even clay pipes. If they have either of these options there’s a very good chance that you may be in for some big money relatively soon. Tree routes, gravel and soil pressure from shifting and just pure age can wreak havoc on these pipes and will eventually cause them to collapse or crack. This can cause sewage to back up into your home and this is an absolute nightmare for you. If it hasn’t been done already asked for proof that the sewer line run from the main floor drain in the home out to the city has been changed over to a newer option.
Inside the home, you may have water lines that are lead (though this is rare nowadays.) In the not so old homes, you will find poly B pipes. This is something that’s very common in Kingston. Though this shouldn’t frighten you off the sale of a house it is always prudent to ensure that your insurance will cover you if there’s issue with them.
If there is shut-off valves under the sinks, they should be also inspected. The toilet also has a shut off valve and though rarely-used, you do want this working perfectly should you need to use it. In addition, most older homes will have main water meter switched over. Most have been done by the city years ago but every once in awhile you will find one that has not done it yet.
Older homes will often have a bit of plumbing that varies throughout the house
You may have copper in one pa, pex in another and probably Poly B somewhere else and sometimes these are all fixed up together. Though not necessarily a problem, it is a very good idea to ensure that there are no breaks or leaks anywhere along this plumbing.
