Repiping a House: What’s Involved?

Maintaining your home's plumbing system is crucial, just like any other aspect of your house. Over time, pipes can deteriorate, leading to leaks, low water pressure, discolored water, or unusual noises. If you frequently spend on repairs, residing in an older home, or planning a remodel, it may be time to consider repiping your house. In this article, we will provide you with all the necessary information about repiping a house, including the purpose of repiping, signs that indicate the need for repiping, and what to expect during the process.

Understanding Repiping

Repiping involves replacing the outdated plumbing system in your home with a newer, updated one. Typically, this is recommended for older homes with degraded pipes or significant issues, as well as during major home remodels.

Signs It's Time to Repipe Your Home

Several signs indicate that repiping your home may be necessary:

Lead Pipes, Galvanized Steel Pipes, Polyethylene Pipes, or Dated or Inferior Copper Pipes

Older homes, especially those built over a century ago, may still have lead pipes, which pose health hazards when lead contaminates the water supply. Galvanized steel pipes, commonly found in homes built before the 1960s (and sometimes even in 1980s homes in Houston), are prone to corrosion, leaks, and sediment buildup that can affect water quality.

Chronic Plumbing Issues

If your pipes consistently experience leaks or other problems, repeatedly repairing them can become costly. Repiping your home is a more cost-effective solution, resolving recurring plumbing issues while ensuring a new system designed to last for decades.

Home Remodeling

When remodeling your kitchen, bathroom, or adding rooms to your home, it's an excellent opportunity to consider repiping. This ensures seamless integration of new plumbing fixtures with an updated and reliable plumbing system.

Before You Start: Inspection and Estimation

Repiping your entire home is a significant investment and renovation. It's essential to consult a professional plumber who can inspect your current system and provide a comprehensive estimate for the work involved. Obtaining multiple estimates from local plumbers allows you to compare offers and determine the best approach for your needs and budget.

At We Do Repipes we provide no-obligation repipe consultations to assess your plumbing system, determine the need for a repipe, answer all your questions and provide a customized repipe plan for you. Schedule a consultation today, by calling us at 832-819-8337. We service the Houston Metroplitan area and all surrounding cities.

What to Expect During the Repiping Process?

Here is an overview of what you can expect during the repiping process:

Repipe Preparations

Plumbers will need to access your old pipes by cutting holes in the drywall. Prior to their arrival, it's important to move furniture and protect valuables from potential dirt or damage. Your water service will be temporarily shut off during specific stages of the renovation, as the plumber connects the new system to replace the old one.

Plumbers Need Access to Your Plumbing System

Access to the drywall in many rooms is necessary for installing the new pipe system. Before work commences, ensure that furniture, artwork, and wall hangings are moved out of the way to allow for easy access.

How Long Does a Repipe Take?

The duration of repiping varies depending on the size of your home, the number of bathrooms, and the materials being installed. PEX installations tend to be quicker compared to copper repiping, as they require less demolition and labor hours. At We Do Repipes Inc, single-story PEX repipes usually take one day to complete, while larger or two-story homes may require two days. Rest assured, you will have water access every evening.

Permitting

Repiping, like other renovations, typically requires a work permit. This should be obtained after the initial work is planned and scheduled.

Inspection and Finishing

Once the pipes are installed, a professional inspection is necessary to ensure the work meets all safety and code requirements. Upon receiving approval from the inspector, your plumber can patch the drywall and repaint the walls, restoring them to their original condition. In the city of Houston, permits are required for repiping, and inspections are conducted to ensure compliance with local regulations.


If you are considering repiping your home, we encourage you to contact the professionals at We Do Repipes Inc. Our experienced team will provide expert guidance tailored to your specific needs, ensuring a successful repiping project. Repiping your home can significantly improve the functionality and reliability of your plumbing system, providing peace of mind for years to come.

Thank you for considering We Do Repipes Inc for your home's repiping needs. We look forward to assisting you in achieving a reliable and efficient plumbing system.