Brass Pipes in cement?

[Jonathon]

The supply lines to hall and master bath in our 1937 house are brass and are, in the subfloor section run, buried in concrete they used between the floor joists. We have been told we need to get the brass pipe out of the concrete immediately since the lime used in cement will cause the brass to corrode. They want to demo out the concrete and replace the 3/4" brass supply to wider PEX. I get the larger pipe will help pressure when both showers are running but is the risk of corrosion legit? Thanks

 

[frodo]

any time you install brass/copper piping in direct contat you must sleeve the pipe

plumbing 101.....1st year laborer's job.

 

[phishfood]

Has the piping been like this since the house was built, or was the concrete just placed recently? Are you having any type of problems with the current setup?

 

[Jonathon]

It has been like this since the last renovation (early to mid 1960s). We are renovating as we just bought the house. No problems prior to the demo that revealed brass supply was housed in concrete. Unclear if its sleeved where it is buried.

 

[phishfood]

I have seen concrete poured in subfloors, but usually from the early 1900's. I doubt that the brass piping was installed in the 60's, copper and galvanized were the pipe of choice in that era, at least here in FL.

OLD brass piping can last for a surprising amount of time, but if it truly is 80 years old, it probably is time to replace it. Now, while everything is opened up, is the time to do it.

 

[Jonathon]

Thanks. I only know they last reno'd in 60s but in looking at the reno work they probably didnt replace the supply lines then... The brass (and cement) is likely original to the 1937 build. Probably best to replace - they're suggesting replacing hot and cold supply brass all the way from basement (i.e. New risers). That make sense or is the only compromised area the run thats in cement? Replace with pex?

 

[Mr_David]

I have seen concrete poured in subfloors, but usually from the early 1900's. I doubt that the brass piping was installed in the 60's, copper and galvanized were the pipe of choice in that era, at least here in FL.

OLD brass piping can last for a surprising amount of time, but if it truly is 80 years old, it probably is time to replace it. Now, while everything is opened up, is the time to do it.

Thanks. I only know they last reno'd in 60s but in looking at the reno work they probably didnt replace the supply lines then... The brass (and cement) is likely original to the 1937 build. Probably best to replace - they're suggesting replacing hot and cold supply brass all the way from basement (i.e. New risers). That make sense or is the only compromised area the run thats in cement? Replace with pex?

Like Phish said.

brass is a pretty resilient product BUT old brass I believe had a little lead mixed into it.
You just have to weigh your options. Cost VS piece of mind.