Should I Be Worried About Galvanized Plumbing in a 1970s Idaho Home?
- Brianna Fogg
- Apr 7
- 3 min read
If you're considering buying or you already own a home built in the 1970s in Southeast Idaho, it's worth paying close attention to the type of plumbing inside. One common feature in older homes from this era is galvanized steel plumbing—and while it was once a popular material, it can pose several serious issues for homeowners today.
What Is Galvanized Plumbing?
Galvanized pipes are steel pipes coated with a layer of zinc to help prevent corrosion. In homes built from the 1930s through the 1970s, galvanized steel was widely used for both supply lines and sometimes drain lines. Over time, however, the zinc coating wears down, leading to rust, restricted water flow, and even pipe failure.
Why Galvanized Pipes Are Problematic Today
Corrosion: Once the protective zinc layer wears away, the steel underneath is exposed and begins to corrode.
Water Pressure Issues: Corrosion leads to buildup inside the pipe, which restricts water flow and lowers water pressure.
Water Quality Concerns: Galvanized pipes can release iron into the water, discoloring it and giving it a metallic taste. In some rare cases, lead from upstream connections may also accumulate in galvanized lines.
Leak Risk: As corrosion worsens, leaks become more likely—and they can be expensive to repair, especially if hidden inside walls or beneath floors.
How to Tell If Your Home Has Galvanized Plumbing
If your Southeast Idaho home was built before 1980 and hasn't undergone a full plumbing replacement, there's a good chance it could still have galvanized pipes. Here’s how you can identify them:
Galvanized pipes are typically dull gray and may show signs of rust.
They’re magnetic—try placing a magnet on the pipe.
They may have threaded joints and often feel rough to the touch.
The best way to be sure? Schedule a professional home inspection to have the system evaluated by a licensed expert.
Risks of Galvanized Plumbing in Southeast Idaho Homes
In Southeast Idaho’s cold climate, older plumbing systems face added stress. Freezing temperatures can exacerbate the brittleness of aging galvanized pipes, increasing the risk of bursting during winter. Combine that with the hard water conditions in much of the region, and you have a recipe for accelerated corrosion and scaling inside pipes.
Specific Risks for Buyers and Sellers
If you’re buying a 1970s home in Idaho, galvanized plumbing could impact your mortgage or insurance. Some lenders or insurance providers may require the replacement of outdated piping before closing. On the flip side, sellers should consider updating plumbing to increase home value and streamline the sale process.
What Should You Do If Your Home Has Galvanized Pipes?
The presence of galvanized plumbing isn’t necessarily an immediate emergency—but it is a red flag. Here’s what to consider:
Get a Plumbing Inspection: A detailed inspection can assess the current condition of the pipes and determine if replacement is needed.
Plan for Replacement: Modern options like PEX or copper piping are more durable and efficient. Replacing galvanized pipes can prevent future leaks, improve water quality, and increase your home’s value.
Budget Early: Full pipe replacement can be a significant investment, so getting ahead of the problem is key.
Our team at Vantage Point Inspections can help evaluate your plumbing system and give you peace of mind before moving forward with a purchase or renovation.
Schedule Your Southeast Idaho Home Inspection Today
Whether you’re buying, selling, or maintaining a home in Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Rexburg, or surrounding areas, a thorough home inspection is your first line of defense against plumbing issues. Contact us to schedule a home inspection and learn precisely what’s lurking behind the walls of your 1970s home.
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