On Dec 11, 5:41 pm, terry wrote:
On Dec 12, 12:57 am, ransley wrote:



On Dec 11, 2:57 pm, Speedy Jim wrote:

Doug wrote:
Question for everyone.

I've read on various posts in this group opposing views that say both
that "copper pipe will not corrode" and "copper pipe can corrode
quickly". Some say it will last 50-100 years others say 40 is a
limit. Can anyone provide a definitive answer?

Problem:

While remodeling our bathroom one of the copper drain pipes in the
floor sprung a leak. And not a small leak; it's probably as big
around as a nickel and the copper is clearly flaking off. The
location is in a horizontal run just past a 90 degree bend from a
vertical run (an L shape). It doesn't *look* like damage caused from
the work, but if it is not and it is corrosion, I'm obviously
concerned about all the other copper sewage lines in my house (built
in 1963). And possibly even the supply lines as well.

Any advice? Anything I could do to determine why the pipe corroded
and subsequently failed as it did?

Thanks
Doug

It is true; 40 years is about the limit
for copper used in drainage applications.

I suspect that sections most affected are
those in contact with soapy water waste.
Local water quality may also have a lot to do
with corrosion rate.

If you have significant corrosion in one place,
look for it everywhere.

There is no reason that the supply piping will
be similarly affected; it may go another 100 years.

Jim- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -

Copper buried in concrete for radiant heating may only last 40 years,
the acid in the concrete eats it away.- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -

Anything resting against or otherwise touching that pipe, externally?
Such as other dissimilar metal; maybe a ferrous metal strap possibly
rusted away or an other metal staple or nail, which might have caused
corrosion?
BTW understanding that you are talking about copper waste pipe

Nothing at the location of the failure. Since the pipe was in the
floor, it wasn't likely to have been hit by a nail/staple anytime
since the home was built. And yes, all the waste pipe in this house
is copper with the exception of many of the p-traps which are PVC.

Am now a bit concerned about the rest of the hidden copper waste
pipe. The plumber said nothing else that he could see appeared to
have any signs of weakness. I do know the previous owners tended to
be Draino happy. Could these type of de-clogging liquids sitting in
the drain cause the pipe to corrode? If so, for future reference what
types of things should we avoid putting down the drain?

Thanks for all the help.
Doug