Repiping a residential property is a massive plumbing project. It not only requires a decent budget but can cause inconvenience to all family member. So when investigating your plumbing system, you need to know whether a small repair is required, you need to replace a single pipe or repipe the entire house.
Though the plumbing structure of a house should last for a long time, but you cannot certainly predict the life of your plumbing system. So it becomes important for you to watch for signs of wear and tear to your plumbing system. But before we get into the details of when you need repiping, it is important to know what is actually involved in repiping.
Repiping – What to Expect?
Repiping your plumbing system may involve the replacement of a single pipe line but it can also be a more complex job. Repiping may involve replacement of the entire plumbing system of the house ranging from your kitchen to the bathroom, basement and main water supply line.
In case of repiping, always remember that a plumbing professional will only perform it when it is absolutely necessary. Parts of the drywall will be removed so that the old pipe can be removed and replaced with a new one. Once the pipe has been reinstalled, the drywall will be replaced.
How Long Does It Take to Repipe a House?
Another important question which people normally ask is how long does it take to repipe a house? Well, the answer to this depends upon which section of your house needs to be repiped. In case of a specific section such as the kitchen or bathroom, it can take a few days to complete repiping. But in case of a major repiping of the entire house, it may take a few weeks.
If you live in colder regions of the country, make sure you get this job done during spring or summers when you don’t have to worry about frozen pipes.
Signs That Your House Needs Repiping
If you live in a house which is more than 30 years old, we recommend you make it an annual ritual to inspect all your exposed pipes. Whether the pipes are in the basement or crawlspaces, they can still show signs of repair or replacement. Inspect them for discoloration, leaks, stains, or flaking (some of them are signs of aging).Below you will find out about 7 subtle signs to watch for. Even then if you are not sure whether your house needs repiping or not, make sure you seek services of a professional plumber.
- Old and Noisy Pipes
If you look at the average, the life of the plumbing structure in your house is likely to stay safe for up to 30-50 years. After that, it is a good idea to replace the pipes. However, this is just an average and the actual number may vary along with multiple factors including weather conditions in your area and general wear and tear of the pipes. The wear and tear also depends upon the material of the pipes. Polybutylene pipes are more prone to leakage so it is good idea to check them a few times a year. Also it depends upon when your house was constructed. Prior to 1970, the plumbing structure in US homes was made up from galvanized steel. This type of pipes again are more susceptible to corrosion and leakage.
Keeping all these factors in mind, if you notice rattling or other types of noise in your pipes, it is a good idea to get your pipes checked with a professional plumber.
- Leaking Pipes
Another warning signs which is most common among old pipes is leakage. As soon as you notice a leak in your pipes, make sure you get them checked with a professional plumber. Some leaks can be repaired but it always a good idea to replace leaking pipes as soon as possible.
In some cases, it is a good idea to replace a certain portion of the leaking pipe. This will save you from further damage to your plumbing system.
- Corroding Pipes
Upon physical examination, if you notice that the pipes in your home are discolored, stained or rusted, it is a sign that you need repiping. While some people may go for repairs but in case of old, corroding pipes, replacement is a better option.
- Decrease in Water Pressure
You can experience a decrease in water pressure in your homes due to a number of reasons but the most common reason is sediment deposit in the pipes. When there is a deposit in the pipes, this block water from flowing at adequate pressure. As a result, you notice a decrease in water pressure in the faucets. This is not always a sign that you need repiping but can be a potential indication. If you are not sure, it is a good idea to get your pipes checked with a professional plumber.
- Discoloration of Water
A change in the color of water flowing out of the faucets is a potential indication that your pipes are too old and need to be replaced. In certain cases, especially after returning from vacation, when your plumbing system is out of use for a while, it is common to notice discolored water. But if this is the norm, then you definitely need repiping.
There are many other signs including change in the color and taste of tap water.
Moving Forward
Problems with the plumbing structure in the house is not simply an inconvenience. Instead, it is actually a threat to the safety and well-being of your family. Therefore, as soon as you notice any of the above mentioned signs, it is important to contact a professional plumber like Mesa Plumbing Company. We provide plumbing facilities including repair and replacement of your plumbing structure. We offer a range of PEX and copper pipes which are not only pocket friendly but can permanently solve your plumbing issues. To know more about what we do and how, visit our website or call now at 480-832-1660.