Tap the pipe gently with a metal spoon or a wrench. Lead makes a dull, soft thud, almost like tapping a thick rubber eraser. Copper or steel? They ring like a bell—clear, sharp, and loud.
Close your eyes and listen. It’s like comparing a wooden drum to a metal gong. Your ears are actually better detectives than you gave them credit for.
Size Matters (And So Does Age)
Lead pipes are usually thicker and more swollen than modern ones, often with a little bulbous joint where they connect. They also tend to be from homes built before 1986, when lead was banned in plumbing.
If your house was built in the 1950s or earlier, you’re in the prime suspect zone. It’s like finding a vintage car in a garage—it’s cool, but you should probably check the engine.
