Common Plumbing Issues in Older Seattle Homes
Seattle is known for its charm, history, and beautiful neighborhoods filled with vintage Craftsman-style homes, mid-century gems, and classic bungalows. But with all that charm often comes an aging plumbing system hiding behind the walls.
If you live in or are buying an older home in Seattle, it's important to know what plumbing problems could be lurking — and how to stay ahead of them.
Here are the most common plumbing issues we see in Seattle’s older homes (and what to do about them).
🧱 1. Galvanized Steel Pipes
Many Seattle homes built before the 1960s were plumbed with galvanized steel pipes, which are prone to corrosion over time. These pipes may still be in use in older homes and are often hidden behind walls or under foundations.
Problems they cause:
Low water pressure
Discolored or rusty water
Pipe corrosion leading to leaks or bursts
👉 Pro Tip: If your home still has galvanized piping, it’s worth considering a whole-house repipe with modern materials like PEX or copper.
🌊 2. Leaky or Outdated Fixtures
Dripping faucets, loose connections, and leaky toilets are all common in older homes — especially if original fixtures have never been updated. These “minor” issues can quietly waste hundreds of gallons of water each year.
What to look for:
Water stains around sinks or under cabinets
Constantly running toilets
Faucet handles that feel loose or squeaky
🔧 Fixing or replacing old fixtures not only saves water but can give your bathroom or kitchen a quick facelift.
🚽 3. Clogged or Slow Drains
Over time, pipes in older homes collect decades of buildup — grease, soap scum, hair, and sometimes even debris from trees and soil. This can lead to chronic slow drains or frequent clogs, especially in bathrooms and kitchens.
Solutions include:
Professional drain cleaning
Sewer camera inspection (for deeper issues)
Preventative maintenance to keep pipes clear
🌳 4. Tree Root Intrusion in Sewer Lines
Many older Seattle neighborhoods are full of beautiful, mature trees — which unfortunately can cause major problems underground. Tree roots naturally seek out moisture, and older clay or concrete sewer lines are easy targets.
Signs of trouble:
Gurgling toilets or drains
Frequent backups or foul odors
Sewage smells in the yard
📸 A sewer camera inspection can identify root intrusions or cracks in the line before it becomes an emergency.
🧯 5. Outdated Water Heaters
Many older homes still rely on outdated water heaters that are well past their prime. If your system is more than 10–12 years old, it's likely less efficient and more prone to breakdowns.
Watch for:
Rumbling or popping sounds
Inconsistent hot water
Rusty water or leaks around the base
🚿 If you're not ready for a full upgrade, consider a tune-up to keep things running. When you're ready, a new unit can save money on your utility bills and improve comfort.
💦 6. Improper Past Repairs or DIY Fixes
Older homes often come with a long history — and sometimes that includes less-than-professional plumbing work done over the decades. Poorly fitted pipes, mixed materials, or creative “fixes” can cause long-term problems.
If you've noticed:
Strange pipe configurations
Frequent leaks from the same spot
Non-code plumbing work
…it may be time to have a licensed plumber evaluate the system and make sure everything is safe and up to date.
🛠️ Keep Your Seattle Home’s Plumbing Running Smoothly
Owning an older home in Seattle doesn’t mean you have to deal with plumbing headaches all the time — but it does mean being proactive. With regular maintenance, timely repairs, and a little expert help, you can preserve your home’s charm without sacrificing modern comfort.
At All Phase Plumbing, we specialize in working with older Seattle homes. Whether you need a sewer inspection, water heater replacement, or just a quick fix for a stubborn leak, we’re here to help.
👉 Call us today to schedule a plumbing inspection or get fast, friendly service from local experts who understand Seattle’s homes — and its plumbing.
