There’s something undeniably charming about an older home. Original woodwork, historic details, and unique architecture you just don’t see in new construction. But when it comes to plumbing? That vintage charm can come with some very real headaches.
At Ackerman Plumbing, we’ve helped many homeowners in Iowa City, Coralville, and surrounding areas deal with plumbing problems in homes built 30, 50, even 100 years ago. The issues aren’t always obvious at first, but they can escalate quickly if left unchecked.
If you live in (or are thinking about buying) an older home, here’s what you need to know about the most common plumbing problems—and how to fix them before they become costly surprises.
1. Corroded or Aging Pipes
One of the biggest concerns in older homes is the plumbing itself, especially if the pipes are original to the house.
Depending on when your home was built, the pipes may be made of galvanized steel, cast iron, or even lead. All of these materials have a limited lifespan, and over time, they corrode, rust, or break down.
Warning signs:
- Discolored or metallic-tasting water
- Reduced water pressure
- Frequent leaks
- Water spots or stains on walls and ceilings
The fix:
If your home still has galvanized steel or cast iron pipes, it may be time to repipe with modern materials like PEX or copper. While a full repipe might sound intimidating, it’s a smart long-term investment in your home’s value and safety. We’ll inspect your system and provide honest recommendations, because sometimes just a partial replacement is needed.
2. Low Water Pressure
Another common complaint in older homes? Weak water flow.
Low water pressure can be caused by several issues, but in older systems, it often comes back to mineral buildup or partially corroded pipes. Hard water (which we have plenty of in eastern Iowa) deposits calcium and magnesium inside the pipes over time, narrowing the openings and restricting water flow.
The fix:
First, we’ll determine whether the pressure issue is isolated (just one faucet or shower) or house-wide. Then, we’ll check for clogged aerators, corroded pipes, or issues with your pressure regulator. In some cases, a whole-house filtration or water softener system can prevent future buildup and improve long-term water flow.
3. Outdated Fixtures and Plumbing Codes
If your home hasn’t been renovated in decades, chances are the fixtures are just as old as the pipes. While they might still work, older faucets, toilets, and shut-off valves are more prone to leaks and less efficient when it comes to water use.
Even more importantly, older homes may not meet today’s plumbing codes, especially if DIY repairs were made over the years without permits or inspections.
The fix:
We can update your fixtures with modern, water-efficient replacements and bring any out-of-code work up to current standards. This is especially important if you’re planning to sell your home in the future or start a renovation project. A code-compliant plumbing system gives you peace of mind—and saves you money on your water bill, too.
4. Leaky or Poorly Located Shut-Off Valves
In a plumbing emergency, you need to be able to shut off your water fast. But in many older homes, shut-off valves are hidden, broken, or stuck. If you’ve never located your main shut-off valve, now’s the time.
The fix:
We can replace aging or inoperable valves and install easy-to-access shut-offs under sinks, behind toilets, and at your main line. This small update can make a big difference in preventing water damage during an emergency.
How Ackerman Plumbing Can Help
At Ackerman Plumbing, we specialize in both repairs and upgrades for older homes throughout the Iowa City area. When you work with us, you get:
- Thorough inspections: We don’t just look at the surface—we evaluate your whole plumbing system to identify weak points before they turn into emergencies.
- Honest recommendations: We’ll always tell you what’s urgent, what can wait, and what’s worth upgrading to save you money over time.
- Code-compliant repairs: We bring older systems up to modern standards safely and professionally.
- Local experience: We’ve worked in homes of all ages and understand the quirks and challenges that come with them.
Don’t Wait for a Plumbing Emergency
If your home is more than 30 years old and you’re starting to notice low pressure, discolored water, or frequent leaks, don’t ignore the signs. The sooner we catch and correct these issues, the less likely you are to face an unexpected flood or a major repair bill.
Ready to take the next step? Call Ackerman Plumbing or schedule a service visit online. We’re here to help protect the character of your older home while making sure your plumbing is safe, reliable, and built to last.