Frequently Asked Questions About Repiping

What is Repiping?

Repiping is a comprehensive plumbing procedure that involves replacing old or deteriorating water supply pipes in a building with brand new ones.

Over time, pipes can corrode, rust, or develop leaks, compromising the overall integrity of the plumbing system. These are normally caused by systemic plumbing issues such as old CPVC piping, old polybutylene pipes, leaks under slabs, pinhole copper leaks, or failing galvanized plumbing.

Repiping addresses these issues by removing the existing pipes and installing new ones made from high-quality materials such as PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) tubing and copper piping.

Repiping aims to restore the functionality and efficiency of the water supply, eliminating problems like low water pressure, rusty or discolored water, and potential health hazards from contaminants.

By opting for a repipe, you can enjoy a reliable and long-lasting plumbing system that ensures a steady flow of clean water throughout your property.

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What are the Signs that I Need a Repipe?

Identifying the signs that indicate the need for repiping is crucial to maintaining a functional and efficient plumbing system. Here are some specific details for each sign:

• Frequent Pipe Leaks and Bursts: If you're experiencing an increasing frequency of pipe leaks or bursts, it's a clear indication that your plumbing system is compromised. Old and deteriorating pipes are prone to developing cracks, holes, or weak points, leading to leaks and potential water damage in your property.
• Low Water Pressure: Aging pipes can accumulate mineral deposits, rust, and corrosion over time, which restricts water flow and causes low water pressure in faucets, showerheads, and other fixtures. Repiping can resolve this issue, restoring optimal water pressure and improving your overall water usage experience. Check out our ultimate guide to fixing low water pressure.
• Rusty or Discolored Water: Corrosion in old pipes, especially galvanized plumbing, can lead to the presence of rust and other contaminants in your water supply. If you notice discolored or rusty water, especially when you first turn on the tap, it's a clear indication that your pipes are deteriorating and require replacement to ensure safe and clean water.
• Strange Taste or Odor in Water: Contaminants and rust from old pipes can impart an unusual taste or odor to your water, making it unpleasant and potentially hazardous for consumption. Repiping your property can eliminate these issues, providing you with fresh, clean, and odor-free water.
• High Water Bills: Undetected leaks in deteriorating pipes can result in water wastage, leading to unexpectedly high water bills. If your water usage has not increased, but your bills are unusually high, it's likely that hidden leaks in your plumbing system need immediate attention through repiping.



• Slab Leaks: Slab leaks occur when water pipes beneath the concrete foundation of your property develop leaks. Indications of slab leaks include unexplained wet spots on the floor, unusually warm areas on the floor, or the sound of running water when no fixtures are in use. For more information, read our article on what to do if you have a slab leak.

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What are the Benefits of Repiping?

There are numerous advantages that come with repiping your plumbing system. Some of the specific benefits include:

• Improved Water Quality: Repiping your property with modern materials like copper piping or PEX tubing ensures a significant improvement in water quality. Older pipes made of galvanized iron or lead may contribute to water contamination, rust, and sediment buildup. New pipes are corrosion-resistant, preventing harmful substances from leaching into your water supply and delivering cleaner, safer, and better-tasting water to your faucets and fixtures.
• Enhanced Water Pressure: Repiping eliminates these obstructions and restrictions, allowing water to flow freely throughout your plumbing system. As a result, you'll experience improved water pressure in your showers, faucets, and appliances, making daily tasks more efficient and enjoyable.



• Prevention of Future Leaks: Investing in repiping is a proactive approach to prevent future pipe leaks and bursts. Old pipes are more susceptible to developing weak spots, cracks, and pinhole leaks due to corrosion and wear. By replacing these aging pipes with durable and reliable materials, you significantly reduce the risk of unexpected leaks and water damage, saving you from the inconvenience and expense of frequent repairs.
• Increased Property Value: Upgrading your plumbing system through repiping can add significant value to your property. Prospective buyers are attracted to homes with modern, efficient plumbing that ensures a steady water supply and reduces the likelihood of costly plumbing issues. By investing in repiping, you enhance the overall appeal of your property in the real estate market, potentially leading to higher selling prices and a faster sale when the time comes.

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Which Areas of My Property Require Repiping?

We understand that determining the areas of your property that require repiping is essential for a successful plumbing upgrade.

Areas that require repiping as plumbing systems fail include the main water supply line into the home, kitchen and bathroom plumbing, and water line fixutres.

While it may be tempting to repair areas of plumbing as they fail, this will rarely fix possible systemic plumbing issues.

We would always suggest a full home repipe over individually repairing damaged sections of plumbing for several reasons. There will be virtually no scenario where a pipe repair of individual areas is more cost-effective than a repipe.

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How Much Does Repiping Cost?

In general, our repipes range from $4,500 for a two-bedroom, one-bath house to up to $15,000 for larger properties and more complex projects.

Here at Repipe Specialists, we have performed thousands of repipes across the USA, specializing solely in full home plumbing replacements. A whole home repipe is more affordable than you might imagine and is almost certainly less expensive than repairing damages behind expensive repeated pipe leaks.

Key Factors Affecting Repiping Cost

1. Area Size: The size of the repiping project impacts the amount of materials and labor required, directly influencing the overall cost.
2. Number of Fixtures: The quantity of plumbing fixtures in the home affects the extent of repiping needed, influencing the total cost.
3. Pipe Accessibility: The ease of accessing the pipes significantly affects labor costs and the choice of piping material. Factors like attics, basements, and construction type can impact the overall cost.
4. Installation Complexity: The layout, obstacles, age of the home, and prior renovations contribute to the complexity of the installation, which in turn affects the cost of repiping.
5. Piping Material: The choice of piping material is essential for a successful repiping project, as different materials vary in durability, longevity, and maintenance requirements.

We have a detailed article on how much a repipe costs alongside information regarding the cost to repipe a mobile home.

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What are the Best Materials for Repiping?

Copper piping and PEX tubing are both widely accepted as the best materials for any home repipe.

We utilize both type L copper piping and Uponor PEX-A tubing for our full home repipes. Additionally, we provide lifetime warranties on all of our repipes.

Both materials offer their unique advantages, such as durability, resistance to corrosion, and longevity. We have an article detailing whether you should repipe with copper or PEX depending on your property's needs and budget.

If you are unsure whether to use copper or PEX for your home repipe, feel free to contact us to schedule a free consult with one of our local repipe consultants.

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Get a Quote for Repiping Your Home

Here at Repipe Specialists, we've fully replaced the plumbing in over 75,000 homes since 1991 using both copper piping and PEX tubing. We continually get positive customer feedback from customers about their overall home repipe experiences. We often exceed their expectations on:

• Speed: Our repipe crews typically complete a repipe in a day, returning on another day for wall patching.
• Convenience: Through our One-Stop Repipe™ process, we handle everything from permits, to wall patching, to inspections.
• Cleanliness: Our crews are trained to protect your home while working (we cover all surfaces with protective sheeting), and to clean up fully at the end of each day.
• Peace of Mind: Repipe Specialists is a fully licensed plumber in every state we operate in, and we back all of our repipes with a lifetime warranty.
• Financing programs: To help take the sting out of unplanned repipe expenses, we offer several financing programs.
• Price: As a specialist that performs hundreds of repipes a week, we can deliver high-quality repipes at a lower cost vs generalist plumbers. We have an article that covers repipe cost factors in detail.

Schedule a free in-home consult, and one of our local repipe consultants will explain all your repipe options and provide you with a written, fixed-price quote.

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