Top Plumbing Issues We See in Houston Homes

Houston’s climate isn’t just hard on your roof — it’s hard on your pipes. The soil shifts. The water pressure fluctuates. The heat, humidity, and hard water all work against your plumbing system. In older neighborhoods, aging infrastructure adds even more stress. And whether you’re in a post-war bungalow or a new build outside the Beltway, chances are your home will need plumbing repair sooner than you expect.

As plumbers who work across the Houston area every day, we see the same problems come up again and again. And the sooner you recognize them, the easier they are to deal with.

Here are the most common issues we repair in Houston homes, and what you should know before calling a local plumber.

1. Slab Leaks from Shifting Soil

Houston’s clay soil expands and contracts with moisture, especially after periods of heavy rain or drought. This constant ground movement puts pressure on the pipes under your home’s foundation, and over time, those pipes crack or shift.

Slab leaks are especially dangerous because they’re hard to detect. Homeowners usually don’t notice them until their water bill rises, floors feel warm, or mold starts to appear.

A reliable plumber will use electronic leak detection tools to find the leak before breaking into your floor — and will explain whether a spot repair or full rerouting is the smarter long-term solution.

2. Corroded Pipes in Older Homes

Many homes in central Houston still have galvanized steel or cast iron pipes, especially those built before the 1980s. These materials corrode from the inside over time, restricting flow and releasing rust or debris into your water.

Low water pressure, discolored water, or frequent leaks are all signs of corroding pipes. In many cases, patching doesn’t work. Full repiping may be the safer and more cost-effective solution.

An experienced plumber will be able to assess your system and walk you through what needs to be replaced and why — not just push for the biggest job.

3. Backups and Clogs from Heavy Rain

When Houston gets heavy rain, the ground becomes saturated, and older or partially blocked sewer lines can start to back up. This often affects homes with clay or cast iron drain lines, or those with tree roots near the main line.

If you notice gurgling drains, water backing up into the tub or shower, or a foul smell from your sinks, your sewer line may be blocked or damaged.

A skilled plumbing repair team will use a camera inspection to confirm the issue and clear the line using hydro-jetting or trenchless methods where possible, not just pour chemicals and hope for the best.

4. Failing Water Heaters

Houston’s hard water can take a toll on your water heater. Mineral buildup inside the tank reduces efficiency, shortens the system’s life, and causes problems like inconsistent temperature or strange noises.

Most water heaters in Houston last 8 to 10 years if they’re not flushed regularly. If yours is older or underperforming, it may be time for a replacement, or at least a full service.

A local plumber can inspect your unit, drain the sediment, and tell you whether a repair or full replacement makes more sense.

5. Leaky Fixtures and Worn Valve Seats

Houston’s water supply isn’t just hard on pipes — it wears down internal components inside faucets and toilets, too. Constant mineral exposure and pressure fluctuations can break down seals, washers, and valve seats faster than most people expect.

If your faucet won’t stop dripping or your toilet runs for no reason, a repair is usually simple — but if left alone, these problems waste water and drive up costs fast.

A reliable plumber won’t just replace parts. They’ll check pressure, inspect surrounding connections, and make sure there isn’t a larger issue hiding behind the leak.

Know the Signs Before the Damage Spreads

In Houston, plumbing problems aren’t just common — they’re often tied to predictable issues in soil, pressure, materials, and water quality. And the sooner you catch them, the less expensive they are to fix.

If you notice unusual water behavior in your home — whether it’s a slow drain, a strange sound, or a spot on the ceiling that won’t go away — it’s worth getting it checked by someone who knows what to look for.

At Acacias Plumbing, we’ve handled everything from emergency repairs in flooded driveways to full system overhauls in post-war homes. We know the area, we know the systems, and we don’t guess.

If you want the job done properly the first time, work with a plumber who’s been here before. Call Acacias Plumbing — your local, experienced team for Houston homes.