What You Need to Know About Replacing Your Plumbing
Homeowners often take for granted the plumbing in the walls of their homes that instantly bring hot water for our showers, cold water to drink, and clean water to wash dishes – that is, until something goes wrong. Unfortunately, issues with plumbing frequently arise for a range of reasons, including normal wear and tear over time, cracks due to cold temperatures, or faulty installation by the original plumber.
When to Replace Your Plumbing
There are many reasons that you might need to replace the plumbing in your home.
- Your home is very old – If your home was built before 1920, you may have lead pipes. Lead is a known carcinogen and causes severe health problems. You should call a professional plumber right away to determine whether you have lead pipes, and if you do, you should replace them as soon as possible.
- Your pipes are old – All pipes have a lifespan. For example, copper pipes can last up to 100 years, whereas CPVC pipes, which are in many homes, may only last 25 years. Over time, the water running through your pipes can cause corrosion and blockages. You may detect this as rusty-colored water, metallic taste, poor water pressure, clogged drains, or worse, leaks or ruptures.
- You are doing a renovation – If you are renovating your home, you may need to replace or remove old plumbing or install new plumbing. Your contractor could also discover that your plumbing is not code-approved, either because of old materials or bad installation. A professional plumber can assist with hydro jetting to clear out any blockages in your pipes, install tankless water heaters for energy-efficient hot water supply, or conduct repiping to replace aging or damaged pipes.
Cost of Replacing Plumbing
According to Home Advisor, the cost of replacing your plumbing can range significantly based on the scope of work, the size of your home, and the materials you choose. For example, replacing or repairing a small section of plumbing can range from $357 to $1,990, but a full re-pipe of your entire home will cost you $7,500 to $15,000.
There are three main materials used for piping in homes that you can choose from:
- Copper – Copper has been used in piping for years. It is generally very durable, safe, and long-lasting. However, it costs much more than other materials ($2-$8 per linear foot, according to Home Advisor). Even so, it may pay for itself in the long run.
- CPVC – CPVC pipes are common and are used in many homes today. They do not last nearly as long as copper pipes, but they are far cheaper ($0.50-$1 per linear foot).
- PEX – PEX pipes are a relatively new material with a lot of benefits. They are flexible and easy to install, especially in renovations. They are also relatively economical ($0.40-$2 per linear foot). Because they are so new, however, not much is known about their life span.
Choosing the Right Plumber
Deciding to replace your plumbing is not a decision to make lightly. You should consult a professional plumber who can evaluate the age, material, flow, and safety of your existing plumbing. Do your research to make sure you’re hiring the right plumber for the job. They should be licensed, insured, and experienced with a good reputation.
If you need help deciding whether to replace your plumbing, call Plumbing Outfitters today. Our team of experienced professionals can give you a free, in-home estimate.