When many people think about corrosion, they think in terms of industrial problems requiring industrial solutions, such as corrosion inhibitors. But corrosion can be a residential issue, too.
For example, it can rear its ugly head in pipes, fixtures, and more. Although corrosion can be an issue aesthetically, it can also lead to leakage and damage that costs a fortune in the long run.
Here are four useful tips that’ll help you identify, prevent, and control corrosion in your home.
1. Identify the Causes of Corrosion
There is no randomness when it comes to the corrosion process, as it’s the interaction of metal with oxygen, water, or chemicals. The likely causes of this phenomenon in the home are the following:
- High moisture or humidity
- Acidic or mineral-rich water
- Dissimilar metals making contact
- Salt exposure in coastal regions
The rusting of iron pipes happens because water and oxygen interact with the iron. Blue or green stains around copper pipes often indicate that the water is acidic and is attacking the copper material. Chalky stains around faucets and water heaters usually signify the deposition of minerals from hard water.
Before repairing corrosion, it is important to identify the cause. Otherwise, the problem will just recur.
2. Control Moisture and Ventilate Well
One of the largest contributors to the corrosion process is the presence of water. Places in your home where water and warm air tend to collect, such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, basements, and kitchens, are where the effects of corrosion will be most apparent. Even a small amount of condensation can result in the corrosion of pipes or electrical boxes.
Corrosion processes can be blocked by using exhaust fans during showering or cooking, fixing leaks as soon as you notice them, using dehumidifiers in basements with high humidity, keeping cold pipes from condensation by insulating them, and maintaining air flow in closed spaces.
3. Check Plumbing and Water Quality
Water from your own house is also another factor that matters in the process of corrosion. Depending on where you reside, the water from your house can vary in quality.
Each type of water has its own impact on metals. Acidic water tends to corrode copper pipes on the inside. Hard water leaves deposits that are conducive to the accumulation of moisture, leading to corrosion. Iron-rich water tends to cause discoloration in the form of red stains and rust spots on appliances.
You can combat such issues by having your water checked, especially if you have well water or notice any stains, tastes, or odors in the water.
As well, exposed plumbing systems need to be checked for any signs of green, white, or rust-colored residue around fittings, connections, and shut-off valves.
If the tests reveal that the water is too acidic, it might be worth considering the installation of a water treatment system. Not only will the water taste better, but your plumbing will last longer.
4. Repair Any Corrosion ASAP to Keep It From Progressing
Corrosion, once it has started, will progress unless stopped in its tracks. So you must detect corrosion at an early stage -- and do something about it.
Depending upon the material and the nature of the rust, the following can be done:
- Remove any light surface rust with a wire brush and sandpaper.
- Use a rust converter
- Replace severely pitted or weakened areas
For metal railings, pressure tanks, water heaters, or metal outdoor furnishings, it may be possible to salvage them, provided rust is properly addressed sooner rather than later. However, in cases of extensive pitting or thinning of pipes, valves, or structural components, you might have to replace them rather than attempt repairs.
Corrosion takes time to develop. Staining, pitting, discoloration, and flaked metal are only the symptoms. It’s the sort of thing that’s easy to ignore, but failing to act is not an option. Having an understanding of how corrosion occurs is the first step. Your home is full of metal from pipes and storage tanks to electrical components and fasteners, and it’s all at risk from corrosion.
In essence, the key to corrosion control is protecting the hidden infrastructure to ensure that your home is secure, functional, and sound for years to come.
