Does Your Home Need Repiping? Here’s How to Know

Repiping a home involves replacing an old plumbing system with new pipes. Deciding to repipe a home comes with weighing the pros and cons of getting a new system. If plumbing lines are old and no longer functioning, repiping may be a homeowner’s only option. You should consider numerous factors when choosing to repipe a home, such as the type of pipes, their age, and the kind of plumbing issues you encounter. Here are the most common indicators of needing a whole-home repiping versus repair:

The pipes are lead, galvanized steel, or polybutylene

According to the Environmental Defense Fund, more than nine million homes in America receive water from lead pipes. Widely used in the early 1900s, lead is poisonous to humans, and immediate replacement is critical. In 1986 the US government banned the use of lead pipes. Other pipes that require replacement are galvanized steel and polybutylene. Some galvanized steel contains traces of lead causing lead poisoning. On the other hand, polybutylene pipes are too fragile to keep up with regular plumbing use.

The pipes surpassed their lifespan

Most pipes last decades and won’t need to be replaced until they corrode, rendering them faulty or leak-prone. Yet, the biggest downside of old pipes is that plumbing begins to fail. The average lifespan of standard pipes are as follows:

  • Galvanized steel pipes: 25 to 50 years

  • Brass pipes: 40 to 70 years or more

  • Copper pipes: More than 50 years

  • Cast iron pipes: 75 to 100 years

  • Plastic pipes, PEX, PVC, or CPVC: 100 years or indefinitely 

Though plastic piping can outlast most of its owners, it is also susceptible to weather damage and sun exposure. Every type of pipe has its version of an Achilles heel. That is why keeping up with necessary maintenance and repairs will prolong the life of any plumbing system.  

The plumbing system is failing

Constant repairs and issues with a plumbing system will aggravate any homeowner. Even if the pipes are made of the sturdiest of materials and maintained adequately, plumbing can still fail. Recurring problems that often justify a whole-home repiping include:

  • Corroded pipes

  • Constant leaks

  • Low water pressure

  • Discolored water

  • Erratic changes in temperature

  • Noisy or banding pipes

  • Smelly water

For anyone experiencing recurring plumbing problems, it is time to consider repiping. Leaks can cause severe damage to a residence and the home’s structure. At the same time, low water pressure or extreme temperature changes become a nuisance when trying to shower or do the dishes. 

Get professional plumbing services

Many people decide to repipe their home when repairs no longer cut it. Deciding to take on a whole-home repiping does not have to be a headache. Consult with a licensed and experienced plumber to ensure repiping is suitable for your home. Even if the choice is not safety-related, installing new pipes can be an excellent investment in the future of your property. Enjoy better protection against leaks and no more faulty plumbing!

Much Better Plumbing is the premier residential and commercial plumbing service for homeowners and businesses in the Las Vegas area. We are licensed, bonded, and insured. Our residential plumbing services include water leak detection and repair, toilet repairs, faucet repair and replacement, home repiping, slab leak detection and repair, and water heater repair and replacement.

residential plumbingGreen Thumb Localhome repiping