What is Involved in Repiping a House?
Summary
If you’re finding that your pipes are having problems or considering a remodel, it may be a good time to think about repiping. Here’s what you should know about what is involved in repiping a house.
Plumbing issues are part of homeownership. As your pipes age, they become more susceptible to corrosion or damage that can result in leaks or other major issues. Over time, these repairs can add up and put a dent in your wallet.
If you’re finding that your pipes are having problems or considering a remodel, it may be a good time to think about repiping. Here’s what you should know about what is involved in repiping a house.
What Does Repiping a House Mean?
Repiping a home is a process in which a plumber replaces old pipes with new pipes in your entire plumbing system. This is typically done when homes are older and the pipes are corroded or damaged, but some homeowners elect to repipe their homes when they remodel or renovate other rooms.
When Would a Homeowner Need to Repipe a House?
How can you tell when it’s time to repipe your home? Here are some signs to look out for:
Your Home Has Lead Pipes or Galvanized Steel Pipes
Homes that are a century old (or older) may have lead pipes. This common material was used in many homes from this period, but it was found to cause health problems when lead leaks into the water source. Though many of these homes have had repiping, it’s crucial that you check your home for lead pipes and update them.
No Matter How Many Times You Fix Your Pipes, They’re Still Broken
If you’re dealing with constant plumbing repairs and expensive bills, it may be time to just repipe your home. These small repairs add up, and it may be a more practical and cost-effective decision to simply upgrade your old plumbing system to a new one.
You’re Remodeling Your Home
If you’re adding a kitchen, bathroom, or new plumbing fixtures, this is a good time to evaluate your old system and whether it’s time to repipe. It’s a big undertaking but pairing new systems with old ones can create more problems. It may be best to bite the bullet and repipe your entire home.
Before You Start – Get an Inspection and Estimate
Repiping is an overhaul of your home’s plumbing and a big investment. Before you take on this renovation, contact several plumbers to get estimates and inspections. You can then see which company is the best fit for your needs.
What is Truly Involved in Repiping a House
A full repiping of your home will involve many rooms in your house. Here’s how you can prepare for the process:
Preparations
Installing new pipes will mean renovations in most rooms in your home. It’s important to do your part and cover your furniture and décor to protect it from damage or dirt during the process. You may want to pack up fragile décor and move it to a safe place.
Plumbers Need Access
Plumbers install new pipes by cutting holes in your drywall and constructing the new pipes next to the old ones. You should move furniture or wall hangings out of the way to provide access to your drywall and give the plumber room to work.
How Long Does the Process Take?
Repiping can take anywhere from a few days to a week, depending on the size of your home and the number of rooms with plumbing. Remember that you’ll have open drywall and some water shut off during that time, so plan your day accordingly.
Permitting
A full repiping of your home is a major renovation that requires a permit from your municipality. This should be done after the initial work is complete.
Inspection and Finishing
After the plumber is done working, you will need to bring in an inspector to check the work and approve it. Once the inspection is done, your plumber will be free to repair and repaint the drywall and get your home looking like new.
