Morgan County · Decatur, AL
Plumbers in Decatur, AL
Decatur is in Morgan County, Alabama. About 68,000 people live in the 3 ZIP codes we cover here, in roughly 30,000 homes, 70% of them single-family detached houses. The biggest share of the housing was built between 1960 and 1979 (35%), and that age decides most of what goes wrong with the plumbing.
- Same-day service when a plumber is available
- 3 ZIP codes covered
ZIP codes we cover in Decatur
35601, 35602, 35603
Decatur homes and their plumbing
Here is how Decatur's homes break down by year built, based on Census estimates for the covered ZIP codes: before 1940 4%, 1940–1959 12%, 1960–1979 35%, 1980–1999 30%, 2000 or later 19%. Most homes are old enough that original pipe, valves and water heaters are wearing out, but young enough that full repipes are a case-by-case call. Neighboring areas such as Athens, Madison are covered too.
| Year built | Share of homes |
|---|---|
| Before 1940 | 4% |
| 1940–1959 | 12% |
| 1960–1979 | 35% |
| 1980–1999 | 30% |
| 2000 or later | 19% |
Share of housing units in the covered ZIP codes. Census ACS 2023 5-year estimates.
- Residents in covered ZIPs
- 67,883
- Housing units
- 29,677
- Single-family detached
- 70%
- Owner-occupied
- 66%
- Heated with utility gas
- 26%
- Heated with electricity
- 71%
What goes wrong in Decatur homes
1960s and 70s homes reaching end of life
35% of the housing here dates from 1960 to 1979. Original copper supply lines in those homes are now 45 to 65 years old, and cast iron drains of that age scale up inside and crack. Seized shutoff valves, pinhole leaks and recurring main-line clogs are common calls. A camera inspection shows the condition of the sewer line before anyone digs.
1980s and 90s construction and polybutylene
30% of homes were built between 1980 and 1999. Polybutylene supply pipe was installed widely in US homes from about 1978 to 1995, so houses from these years are worth checking for gray plastic pipe stamped PB2110, usually visible at the water heater or under sinks. Insurers and buyers often ask about it. See polybutylene replacement.
Mostly electric homes
71% of occupied homes here heat with electricity, and electric tank water heaters are the norm. Failed elements and thermostats are repairable, but tanks that leak need replacement. Heat pump water heaters are an efficient replacement where there's space and airflow.
Common calls in Decatur
- Sewer Camera Inspection
- Polybutylene Pipe Replacement
- Water Heater Replacement in Decatur, AL
- Drain Cleaning
- Main Water Line Repair
- Sewer Line Repair
Also available in Decatur: emergency plumbing and every plumbing service.
Decatur at a glance
- County
- Morgan County
- Nearest city pages
- Athens, Madison
- ZIP codes
- 35601, 35602, 35603
Decatur plumbing FAQ
How old are the homes in Decatur?
In the ZIP codes we cover around Decatur, Census estimates put 17% of homes as built before 1960, 35% from 1960 to 1979, 30% from 1980 to 1999 and 19% in 2000 or later. The largest group is 1960–1979 (35%).
Who licenses plumbers in Decatur, AL?
The Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board licenses plumbers and gas fitters, and its online search shows a license's status.
Are water heaters in Decatur usually gas or electric?
Census data for the area show 26% of homes heating with utility gas, 71% with electricity. Water heaters often use the same fuel as the home's heat, so electricity is the most common here, but check the label on your tank before you shop for a replacement.
Guides for Decatur homeowners
Nearby areas
Also covered nearby: Trinity (6 mi), Hartselle (10 mi), Hillsboro (12 mi), Somerville (13 mi), Falkville (14 mi), Moulton (18 mi), Courtland (20 mi), Eva (21 mi).
Housing, heating and population figures are US Census Bureau American Community Survey 2023 5-year estimates for the ZIP code areas we cover in Decatur, so they may include neighboring communities that share those ZIP codes.
Need a plumber in Decatur?
Same-day service when a plumber is available. One call connects you with a licensed plumber who serves your ZIP.