Not many of us spend time thinking about what runs behind our walls or under the floorboards. But as Auckland plumber Josh Marshall says, the age of your home can reveal a lot about what kind of pipes are at work, and how long they are likely to last. “Auckland’s an interesting place because of the variety of housing stock,” Josh explains. “You’ve got everything from houses built in the 1920s right up to this year, and everything in between, which in tow comes with a large variety of different issues.”

Understanding the typical materials used in each era makes it easier to know what your home may have, what problems may crop up, and when an upgrade will save you money and stress in the long run.

From galvanised and lead to copper

If your home was built before the 1950s, chances are its pipes are galvanised steel or copper, with the occasional lead waste pipe. These systems can still be in working order today, but Josh notes their hidden risks. Galvanised pipes corrode from the inside out, so while they may look fine on the outside, they can suddenly fail once rust has eaten through the walls. Lead waste pipes, common in very old houses, are outdated for obvious health reasons.

Copper, on the other hand, is still considered a quality material, but it can react with minerals in the water supply and eventually wear down. If you own a villa or bungalow of this era, it’s worth checking whether the plumbing has ever been updated, and if not, planning for future replacement.

Plastic arrives on the scene

By the 1960s and 70s, the industry was shifting away from metal. “That’s when you’re transitioning from metallic pipes to more first-generation plastic and PVC piping,” Josh says. These early plastics were quicker to install and cheaper than copper, but not all of them stood the test of time.

In the 80s and 90s, polybutylene pipes (often the black or grey ones you see under sinks) became common. While widely used, they are known for weaknesses at joins and fittings. If you find them in your home, especially mixed with copper or galvanised, Josh recommends paying close attention to how they’ve been connected, as poorly handled joins are a common source of leaks.

Modern solutions

From the 2000s onward, most homes are fitted with pex, a flexible plastic pipe that Josh prefers for its thicker walls and durability. If you are renovating or replacing older pipes, upgrading to pex can give peace of mind and simplify future work. Unlike the older materials, it’s designed to cope with today’s mains pressure systems and modern appliances, which makes it a smart long-term choice.

What this means for you

If you’re in an older house, it may be worth budgeting to replace corroded or mismatched materials before they become a bigger issue. If your place was built mid-century, check what kind of plastic was used and whether it’s showing its age. For newer homes, stick to regular maintenance and you should be set for years to come.

Josh’s key advice is to stay aware. Pipes are hidden, but their age and material affect everything from water pressure to the reliability of your hot water system. A quick look under the house or in the ceiling can reveal a lot, and if in doubt, get a plumber to give you a clear picture before problems surface.

Disclaimer: This article is based on a podcast featuring insights from experienced professionals and is intended for general information and inspiration only. While we aim to share valuable guidance, please seek personalised advice from qualified professionals before making decisions about your property, finances, or renovation plans.