For generations the pipes used in home plumbing have been made of galvanized metal. The transition to copper pipes was a revelation, because copper pipes, especially with the quality of today’s pipe products, are designed to last a lifetime. If your water is running sluggishly, it may be a result of rust build up. Also, the rust can affect the quality and taste of the water coming into your house. Once the pipes have been replaced with copper, you may be free of these kinds of problems for the life of the house.