Left unchecked, corrosion can eventually destroy a pipe completely. Corrosion can cause pipes to become clogged with rust or other debris, reducing the flow of water and making it difficult to clean. Even though copper pipes are durable, the green patina, along with other minerals and conditions, on your copper pipes can eventually lead to corrosion and be problematic for your plumbing.Ĭopper pipe corrosion is the deterioration of the metal, due to a reaction with its environment. Copper pipes in basements, brick walls, and concrete walls are especially at risk as these areas retain more moisture than other places. When your pipes have a leak or are in an area with a lot of moisture in the air, the reaction causes your copper pipes to oxidize, and they create a green substance called patina.Įven pinhole leaks can cause this oxidation. The main cause of green copper pipes is oxidation. Even though most newly built homes use PVC, copper is still used in many commercial and residential plumbing systems. In fact, some of the oldest surviving copper pipes date back to around 2700 BC.įor centuries, copper was the material of choice for plumbing due to its durability. Keep reading to learn more about why copper pipes turn green and what you can do about it! Why Do Copper Pipes Turn Green?Ĭopper pipes have been used for plumbing since the days of the Roman Empire. While some people might think that the patina makes the copper look antique and beautiful, others might want to know how to remove it. This effect is called patina, and it’s a natural process that happens to copper when it’s exposed to air and water. Have you ever noticed a greenish tint on your copper water pipes? It’s not mold, yet it can be just as unattractive.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |