Any home can, unfortunately, have plumbing issues, however, if you live in an older home, there are more chances for your pipes having leaks or other problems because of the age and repeated use over the years. Making it a habit to check your plumbing on a regular basis will help to avoid costly repairs in the future. Bathrooms and kitchens are the usual places we check but don’t forget basements, crawl spaces, and utility rooms. Here are a few telltale signs that your pipes may have some wear and should, therefore, be inspected by a professional plumber.

If you are noticing mold and mildew growth in places outside of the bath or shower, which is usually normal, this could be a warning sign of a leak. As pipes deteriorate over the years, they will often develop small leaks which are the perfect place for mold and mildew to thrive, particularly in walls and under the floor. If your home has that all too common musty odor of mold and mildew, even after a deep cleaning of your home, you will want to contact your plumber to investigate further.

Does your water have an odd-color to it? This is from rust and you should contact your plumber right away. Rust can make your water even harder to remove from your skin, clothing, and dishes not to mention, tastes awful.

Have you noticed stains under your cabinets or on the walls under your sink? How about your ground floor ceiling underneath a bathroom, got staining? These are just another sign of a leak or deteriorating pipes. Warped drywall is another sign that perhaps the leak is seeping into the walls causing it to swell and will begin to flake and break apart. Repairs in this scenario will usually involve a contractor as well, to repair any damaged drywall and to bring the room back to normal appearance.

These are just a few tips we suggest to homeowners to make sure they are aware of what to look for in their homes. Inspection your pipes on a routine basis, no matter the age of your home, will hopefully help you locate an issue while it is still small and very manageable. If you would like one of our highly trained plumbers in Baltimore, MD to come and inspect your home, or if you have noticed any leaks or discoloration, give us a call today at  (410) 265-8833.