Although healthy the branches and trunk is extremely brittle and a high wind can often break off large branches or bring down the entire tree.

Springs made from low quality steel will be brittle and snap easily.

Hardie is heavy and brittle and not easy to cut.  

Cast iron becomes brittle and disintegrates, there is no patching or lining.

I have heard mixed opinions of professionals, some saying that the tank is probably fine, others saying that the tanks generally only last 50 years or so and that the concrete gets brittle after a while.

They're brittle.

The cast iron can also rust out and cause leaks and it can be hard to adapt to once its rusted and brittle.

The extra money I make from that home was going to an account to build for a down payment.My goal is to not work a 9-5 til I’m old and brittle too.

They used a PVC pipe that is known to become brittle and break, particularly in colder climates.

When I opened the claim and Insurance company inspector went out there with my choice of licensed roofer they perform brittle test etc.