Historic & Existing Homes

Owning a historic or older home is a labor of love. These properties have a soul and a character that modern builds often struggle to replicate. However, with that vintage charm comes a unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to the plumbing infrastructure hidden behind those plaster walls. At Frank’s Plumbing Inc., we have a deep appreciation for the architectural heritage of our community. We understand that working on an existing or historic home requires a different mindset than working on a new construction project. You cannot simply go in with a “one size fits all” mentality; you have to respect the original craftsmanship while bringing the system up to modern safety and efficiency standards.

Many older homes still feature original plumbing materials that have long since been phased out of the modern building code. Whether it is galvanized steel pipes that have begun to corrode from the inside out or old cast iron sewer lines that have become brittle over the decades, these materials require a delicate touch. When we enter a historic home, our first goal is a thorough assessment. We look for signs of “slow” failures—tiny pinhole leaks that may have been dripping for years or mineral buildup that has restricted water pressure to a mere trickle. Our team is trained to identify these issues without causing unnecessary damage to the historic fabric of the house. We know that the crown molding, the original hardwood floors, and the hand-carved baseboards are irreplaceable, and we take every precaution to protect them while we work.

The transition from old to new is where our expertise truly shines. We specialize in “retro-fitting” modern, high-quality plumbing solutions into existing structures. This often involves creative routing of pipes to avoid disturbing significant architectural features. For many homeowners, the goal is to enjoy the comforts of modern living—such as high-pressure showers and reliable tankless water heaters—without losing the aesthetic of their historic home. We take pride in finding that perfect balance. We can help you source fixtures that match the period-correct look of your home while ensuring the internal mechanisms are state-of-the-art and leak-free.

One of the most common issues we see in existing homes is the “patchwork” effect. Over fifty or sixty years, various handymen or previous owners may have made quick fixes to the plumbing, resulting in a confusing mix of copper, PVC, and galvanized pipes. This can lead to issues with electrolysis or inconsistent water flow. We love the process of untangling these “plumbing puzzles” and creating a streamlined, cohesive system that will last for another generation. Our approach is always to think long-term. We don’t just want to fix the leak you have today; we want to ensure that your home’s plumbing system is robust enough to handle the demands of your family for decades to come.

Communication is a cornerstone of our work in historic homes. We know that these projects can feel overwhelming for a homeowner. Sandra and the team make it a priority to explain exactly what we find, why it matters, and what the options are for moving forward. We provide clear, honest advice on when a repair is sufficient and when it might be more cost-effective in the long run to replace a section of the system. We treat your historic property with the same reverence we would our own, ensuring that our work preserves the integrity of the home while providing the modern reliability you deserve. When you trust us with your existing home, you are getting more than just a plumber; you are getting a team that cares about the history and the future of your property.