Signs Your Galvanized Pipes are Corroding

Galvanized steel pipes were the standard for decades. They look tough on the outside, but they have a fatal flaw: the zinc coating wears off internally, causing the steel to rust and close up like a clogged artery.

This is the hallmark of galvanized corrosion. As rust builds up inside the pipe, the diameter shrinks. If you have low pressure at every faucet (not just one), your pipes are likely choked with rust.

Turn on a faucet that hasn't been used in a few days (like a guest bath). If the water comes out discolored for a few seconds before clearing up, that is rust sitting in your pipes washing away.

Check the pipes in your basement or crawl space. If you see white powdery buildup or reddish rust spots on the outside of the pipe, the corrosion has eaten all the way through the wall. A leak is imminent.