Sparks, NV, plumbers warn against certain types of plumbing in older homes.
Sparks, United States - December 30, 2024 / Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing /
Problems With Kitec Piping
Building technology and materials are constantly evolving. New products and methods offer longer service lives at cheaper prices than older materials. Often, these new materials are safer as well. Unfortunately, when building material producers come out with new products, problems can arise over the decades that prove they weren’t great to begin with. Since new building materials are expected to last for as long as 50 years, it can take some time after the product hits the market to spot its shortcomings.
One of the things that people need to look out for as they buy a new house is outdated or dangerous plumbing. A potential buyer should never forgo inspections, as doing so could leave the new owner in a tough situation.
Kitec plumbing was formerly used in homes and was touted as the latest and best product. However, it turned out that it left many homes flooded and many homeowners footing the bills for damage rehabilitation and repiping.
What Is Kitec Piping?
Kitec plumbing was developed by the brand IPEX in the mid-1990s. Until this point, most homes were plumbed with PVC for cold water lines and copper for hot water lines. As copper prices rose, consumers clamored for more affordable options for hot water plumbing, and thus, Kitec came onto the market.
Kitec came in orange, red, and blue to help denote the type of water it was carrying. It was a three-layer, flexible hose with an aluminum core that gave the outer plastic layers the ability to withstand hot water better than plastic alone. Like PEX systems, Kitec had bespoke fittings and diameters, so entire homes were plumbers with the material.
Unfortunately, Kitec began to fail quickly. By 2005, a recall was issued. Shortly after, a class-action lawsuit was decided to help homeowners recoup the losses for their homes after the pipes burst and caused flooding. More unfortunate still is that there are still homes plumbed with Kitec piping.
Why It’s a Problem
The fittings used in Kitec systems were subject to corrosion. As the fittings corroded, leaks would form, or the corrosion would cause pipes to clog and water pressure to spike. The resulting leaks and pipe bursts caused devastating damage to numerous homes.
Since Kitec systems weren’t compatible with other types of plumbing, it was not possible for homeowners to partially repipe their homes. Homes had to be completely repiped with new materials, ruining walls, ceilings, and foundations in the process.
Replacing Kitec Piping
If a home has Kitec piping, it is essential that it be replaced quickly. Due to the lawsuits against Kitec, homes that contain the material are not insurable, so homeowners take incredible risks by allowing Kitec to remain in their homes.
While repiping can be invasive and a hassle, the potential damage caused by allowing Kitec to remain in the home is far worse. Always have inspections before purchasing a home, and use local professionals for repiping when it's time to update the plumbing in the home.
About Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing
Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing protects home and business owners from outdated plumbing that poses a threat to the property. With repiping and plumbing repair services, owners can rely on their teams for honest and professional performance. Call today for Kitec plumbing service in Sparks, NV.
Contact Information:
Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing
58 Hardy Drive
Sparks, NV 89431
United States
Jacob Hansen
(775) 626-7777
https://www.ihsplumbing.com/
