Cast iron can exhibit corrosion before its usual
100 yr service life. It's primarily due to
silicon particles in the iron (not a chemist).
The result is a "porous" pipe.

PVC can be used as a repair section (if allowed
by the city). Note that the entire stack weight
must be supported securely while the bad parts
are removed.

If the section going into the floor isn't too
badly damaged, it may be possible to avoid digging.

Jim

DanG wrote:

I guess I do not understand what is weeping. Cast iron is not
past its prime in 50 years. Cast iron can have problems, usually
caused by chemical drain cleaners and mineral deposits. You or a
good plumber would need to decide what is going on with your cast
iron. It may need a small section replaced.

Both for repair and replacement, I think any plumber will
recommend pvc. It is faster, quicker, cheaper, and easier. Cast
iron is still used, especially in comfercial and high end work.
It can be argued that it is quieter, but you will pay a premium
for its use.

(top posted for your convenience)
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Keep the whole world singing . . . .
DanG (remove the sevens)




"fish" wrote in message
...

Hi everyone,

We own a rental property, built in 1950 so some of the systems
are
nearing the end of their life expectancy. For example, the
waste
stack in the basement is seeping a little bit, so it needs to be
replaced. My question is, what should it be replaced with, cast
iron
or plastic, and what should I expect to pay for this? How big
of a
hole needs to be cut into the basement floor?

Thanks,
Fish