To get ready to have our only bathroom totally remodeled,we decided to have a toilet installed in our basement. The plumber determined that the cast iron soil stack in the basement is corroded and should be replaced. Using pvc to do the repair, the plumber is recommending a total replacement through the entire house. This would include basement, 1st floor, 2nd floor and attic. Does the entire length need to be replaced?

It needs to be replaced if a lot of it is corroded. That can't be determined easily, so it's not unusual for a plumber to suggest replacing all of it. To replace iron at the bottom with PVC requires strong support according to codes, even if there are supports in the walls. When a bottom section is cut out, even dropping half an inch could be a problem.

So I would replace it all. You are renovating the first floor anyway, and I assume the attic is open and accessible, so the question is how hard it is to access the iron in the second floor wall without opening a section of drywall.

I had a house built in 1912 and the kitchen stack was so corroded it was weeping, and so thin you could tap it with a hammer and punch holes in it.
But you don't have to. Ask for a quote both ways.

It needs to be replaced if a lot of it is corroded. That can't be determined easily, so it's not unusual for a plumber to suggest replacing all of it. To replace iron at the bottom with PVC requires strong support according to codes, even if there are supports in the walls. When a bottom section is cut out, even dropping half an inch could be a problem.

So I would replace it all. You are renovating the first floor anyway, and I assume the attic is open and accessible, so the question is how hard it is to access the iron in the second floor wall without opening a section of drywall.

I had a house built in 1912 and the kitchen stack was so corroded it was weeping, and so thin you could tap it with a hammer and punch holes in it.
But you don't have to. Ask for a quote both ways.

How old are you Joy?? LOL

older than dirt

older than dirt

Joy, did you miss my point? You said, "I had a house built in 1912"... It struck my funny bone.

OH! Yep a real knee slapper. It was almost my bedtime.
That's what I get for abbreviating.

Replacing Cast Iron Soil Stack is a big job. It requires lots of cutting of walls, floors and perhaps even ceilings. Call another plumber to get second opinion before you commit yourself to this project.


Milo