Old pipes don’t always creak and groan before they cause trouble. In fact, some of the most expensive plumbing issues happen quietly behind walls or under floors—until one day, you’re staring at a soaked ceiling or a flooded bathroom. If your house is more than a couple of decades old, chances are, parts of its plumbing are running on borrowed time.
Knowing when your plumbing is due for an upgrade isn’t always obvious. Homeowners often wait until a pipe bursts or water quality drops before seeking help. But early warning signs are almost always there. And if you catch them in time, you could save thousands in repair costs and property damage.
Whether you’re planning a renovation or just want to avoid future disasters, here’s what to look for—and where to start. If you’re in the GTA, there’s no shortage of qualified professionals offering plumbing services Markham residents trust, but being informed makes the process smoother and more cost-effective.
Discolored water and metallic taste
One of the first clues your plumbing may be outdated is a change in the water’s color, taste, or smell. Water that appears rusty, yellowish, or has a metallic aftertaste is often a result of corrosion inside old galvanized steel or iron pipes. Over time, minerals and rust particles flake into the water supply, not only affecting the quality but also the performance of fixtures and appliances.
If discoloration is only noticeable when using hot water, your water heater could also be a factor. But if it shows up across multiple taps, it may point to an aging supply system.
Low water pressure
Low water pressure can be more than just a shower-time frustration. It’s a common symptom of buildup inside older pipes—especially those made from galvanized steel, which tends to corrode from the inside out. As the pipe’s diameter narrows, the flow of water becomes restricted, sometimes unevenly across the home.
Pressure drops can also result from undetected leaks or cracks in pipes behind walls, especially in homes built before the 1990s. If left unaddressed, these issues can escalate quickly.
Frequent leaks or repairs
A plumbing system that requires constant patching is often past its prime. Small, recurring leaks around joints, faucets, or beneath sinks can indicate widespread material fatigue. Temporary fixes may help for a while, but eventually, full pipe replacement is the only long-term solution.
If you’ve had to call for emergency plumbing more than once in the past year, it might be time to consider upgrading major sections of the system instead of treating symptoms one at a time.
Outdated pipe materials
Understanding what your pipes are made of can help predict their lifespan. For example, galvanized steel pipes were commonly used until the 1960s and typically last 40–50 years. Polybutylene pipes, used in the ’70s through early ’90s, are notorious for failing under pressure and have since been recalled in many areas.
Modern systems favor PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) and copper, which offer longer lifespans, greater flexibility, and fewer corrosion issues. A licensed plumber can inspect your system and advise what material upgrades would offer the best return.
No shut-off valves at key locations
If you’re unable to quickly shut off water to individual fixtures—or if your main shut-off valve is hard to access or stuck—it’s time for an upgrade. Proper valve placement isn’t just about convenience; it’s critical during emergencies. Modern plumbing installations typically include accessible shut-offs under every sink and behind every toilet, something many older homes still lack.
Companies like pomplumbing.ca offer full plumbing inspections and can identify such gaps in system design. Small upgrades like adding shut-off valves are inexpensive but can prevent major water damage during leaks or fixture malfunctions.
What to upgrade first
If your plumbing system shows several of these warning signs, a full re-piping may be needed eventually. But if your budget is limited, prioritize areas with the highest risk and exposure. Kitchens and bathrooms tend to show wear first, especially at connection points. Water heaters and outdoor spigots are also common problem zones.
Starting with high-traffic areas not only improves functionality but also ensures your daily comfort isn’t interrupted. And if you’re remodeling, integrating plumbing upgrades into the project saves time and labor costs.
Your home’s plumbing may be out of sight, but it should never be out of mind. Paying attention to the subtle signals it sends—like strange water color, weak pressure, or ongoing drips—can help you catch serious issues early. Upgrading the right parts at the right time protects your home’s value and keeps your water running clean and safe.