Article Content
When Should Water Pipes Be Replaced?
Water pipes are one of the most critical — and invisible — parts of a building's infrastructure. Ageing pipes lead to leaks, limescale build-up, low water pressure and deteriorating water quality. Many apartments in Antalya were built 20–30 years ago with galvanised or steel pipes, which have largely exceeded their service life.
💡 Antalya-specific warning: Antalya tap water is very hard (high in lime). Limescale builds up rapidly in galvanised pipes, narrowing the bore and dramatically reducing water pressure over time.
Pipe Material Comparison
| Material | Lifespan | Limescale Resistance | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galvanised Steel | 20–30 yrs | Poor | Low | Older buildings only |
| PPR (Polypropylene) | 50+ yrs | Excellent | Mid | Standard new installations |
| Copper | 50+ yrs | Good | High | Premium projects |
| PEX (Cross-linked PE) | 50+ yrs | Excellent | Mid | Underfloor heating, flexible runs |
In Antalya, PPR is the standard choice for new installations — resistant to limescale, long-lasting and cost-effective.
Installation Process
- Survey and planning — Map existing pipe routes, draw new plan
- Water shut-off and drain-down — Close main stop valve, drain the system
- Chase cutting — Cut channels in walls and floors for new pipes
- Old pipe removal — Strip out galvanised or failed pipework
- New pipe installation — Weld and connect PPR or PEX pipes
- Pressure test — Leak-free test at 12 bar for 30 minutes
- Chase filling — Seal channels with cement mortar
- Fixture connection — Reconnect basin, shower, taps and appliances
Common Plumbing Problems
- Low water pressure — Limescale-narrowed pipes; cure: full pipe replacement
- Hidden leaks — Corroded joints seep into floors and cause serious structural damage
- Rusty or cloudy water — Iron oxide from corroding galvanised pipes
- Drain odours — Failed trap seals or deteriorating waste pipes
- Inefficient water heating — Scale-coated boiler or water heater consumes far more energy
ℹ️ Combined opportunity: Replacing supply pipes at the same time as waste/drain pipes saves significant cost — the walls are already open.
Water Filtration in Antalya
Antalya tap water meets drinking standards, but its high lime content has made home filtration systems increasingly popular:
- Magnetic limescale inhibitor — Fitted to the boiler or main supply; reduces scale adhesion
- Sand + carbon filter — Removes chlorine, improves taste and odour
- Reverse osmosis (RO) system — Under-sink unit; best solution for drinking water quality
Book a free site visit for your plumbing renovation in Antalya. Contact us — our experienced team will respond within 24 hours.
