The pipes in your home are built to last for decades—and they often do just that. While the occasional drain clog or leaky pipe might occur, you can generally deal with the individual issue, and your plumbing will go back to doing its job without complaint. But in some situations, pipes do need to be replaced. How do you know if you need a whole-home repipe in Sacramento, and what does that entail? Keep reading to learn what you should know.
Signs You Need to Repipe
Repiping a home is a major renovation project, so it’s certainly not something you want to do unless you have to. When the signs are there, though, it’s important not to put off the repiping project for too long. What are the signs? There are a few of them, and they don’t all need to be present for a repipe to be necessary. If one or more of the following is true, however, you should consider it:
You have lead pipes
Lead hasn’t been used to make pipes in several decades, so having lead pipes not only means that your plumbing is quite old, but it can also mean you’re exposing your family to a serious health hazard. Lead pipes can begin releasing lead into your water as they degrade, which can lead to several kinds of health problems.
You have galvanized steel pipes
This material hasn’t been used for decades, indicating that your pipes have been around for some time. These kinds of pipes corrode as they age, and that corrosion can impede water flow and put sediment in your drinking water.
You constantly have plumbing issues
If you feel like you’re paying a plumber to fix something in your home monthly, there’s probably something wrong with the plumbing system as a whole. A brand-new system can eliminate those issues and ongoing repair costs.
You’re doing a remodel
No, you don’t have to repipe every time you remodel. But if any of the above is true, or if your plumbing is 50 or more years old, and you’re also considering a remodel in your home, it could be an excellent idea to repipe your home now. It will lower the total costs across the two projects since you’ll already be doing some demo in your home for the remodel.
So, what if you have two or more of the above signs in your home? What should you expect from a repipe of your home? Keep reading to find out.
It’s Not Always the Entire Home
First, it’s important to note that a repipe doesn’t necessarily mean repiping your entire home. Certain sections of your plumbing may be older than others, or you may have one area that’s giving you consistent trouble. So, before you commit to a whole-home repipe, make sure you have a plumber take a look at your pipes and determine what needs to be replaced. If it is more beneficial to you to repipe the whole home, you should follow that advice. If your plumber believes you only need to repipe a specific area, the project may be shorter than you think.
How Long Does It Take?
With the above information in mind, you can probably guess that the time to repipe your home will vary based on the size of your project. Repiping a small area of your home can sometimes be done in a single day. If you’re repiping your entire home, it will take much longer and will still vary based on the size of your home and how much plumbing you have. A small house with a single bathroom may be repiped in as little as two days. Larger houses with several bathrooms can take a week or more.
What Will It Cost?
Again, the cost will vary widely from one repipe project to another. Factors that influence the cost include:
- The size of the project
- The complexity of the plumbing network
- The material for the new pipes
- The cost of building permits
Repiping your home may cost as little as $1,500 for small, simple projects with low-cost materials. Or, it could cost $15,000 for a larger project with higher-quality piping. One of our repipe specialists in Sacramento can give you a more accurate quote based on your specific needs, so give us a call today.
Everything You Should Know about Repiping Your House
There are a lot of ways that plumbing can go wrong. But sometimes, if enough things are going wrong and the problems are persistent, it could be a sign that you need to repipe your home completely. Of course, this is a huge project, and you don’t want to go into it without knowing some of the most important facts regarding repiping your home. So, how do you know if your water leak in Sacramento is bad enough that you need to repipe? And what can you expect from such a project? Keep reading to find out.
Signs You Need Repiping
Obviously, you don’t want to call for repipe specialists in Sacramento if a simple repair will do the trick. But how do you know if you need to replace your pipes completely? Here are a few key signs:
- You experience non-stop plumbing problems. The occasional clogged pipe or leaky faucet isn’t anything to get your feathers ruffled over. But if you’re constantly paying for plumbing work and repairs, there’s likely a much bigger problem that can be fixed with new pipes.
- Your house has lead pipes. If your home was built in the 1920s or earlier, it might have been built with lead pipes. These present some serious health issues, so even if they’re functioning just fine, you should have them all replaced.
- Your house has galvanized steel pipes. While these pipes don’t present the same health concerns as lead pipes, they can rust. So, if you have an older home, have those pipes inspected for signs of corrosion, and if you spot any, have your home repiped.
- You’re considering a remodel. If you’re renovating a portion of your home with plumbing—like the bathroom or kitchen, you should have the plumbing inspected and consider repiping if the pipes are aged at all. It’s better to get it all done at once than have to open up the walls again later.
How Does It Work?
As we said, repiping a house is a major undertaking, and it will likely be one of the biggest renovation projects you have ever done in your home. The first step is to have a professional examine the issue and provide an estimate on the project. They should let you know if you need to repipe your whole house or just a single section of your home. Next, you and your installers will select the materials and secure work permits if needed.
Water service will need to be shut off to your home while work is being done, but the plumber will often turn it back on for you at night, so your evening routines aren’t impacted if you choose to stay in the home at this time. They’ll pinpoint the locations of the pipes and cut them into your drywall to access those pipes and disconnect them. You can choose to either keep the old ones inside the walls or have them pulled out. They’ll then install the new ones and patch up and repaint the wall for you.
Time and Cost
The exact amount of time your project will take and its cost will vary widely depending on several factors. These factors include the following:
- The number of feet of piping being replaced
- Which type of pipe you choose for the new piping
- Whether or not you have the old pipes completely removed
- Building permit costs, if needed.
Home Repiping: Advantages for Homeowners
Plumbing systems typically last decades, but there comes a time when the problems caused by old pipes become too much for the system to handle and you should consider hiring repiping services in Sacramento. Although this may sound like an inconvenient and expensive undertaking, you’ll enjoy numerous advantages and benefits from getting your home’s pipes replaced. Here are some benefits to consider.
Preventing Continuing Problems
One of the biggest problems with an old plumbing system is that you’re likely to have plumbing problems over and over again. Repairs to your current pipes can certainly be done, but it’s extremely likely that you’ll be frequently calling the plumbers to fix another problem because your older system is deteriorating and unable to keep up with the demand. A repipe in Sacramento can also help you avoid future leaks and water damage that are certain to occur as the pipes continue to wear out.
High Water Pressure
A common sign that your old pipes need to be replaced is when the water pressure is too low or too high. High water pressure is bad because it puts even more pressure on your old pipes and causes more damage. Low water pressure makes it difficult to do everyday tasks, and you spend more time trying to get laundry, dishes, and showering done. Water pressure problems are caused by leaks, mineral build up, or corrosion in the pipes, so repiping your home will solve all those problems.
Cleaner Water
You may have noticed that your water sometimes looks rusty or discolored. Sometimes it may even smell or taste badly. Unless there’s a problem with the municipal water supply, which is rarely the case, the more likely culprit corroding pipes or the buildup of minerals. While in many cases this might not necessarily be harmful, in other cases you could have contaminants in the water when leaks are the cause of the murky, discolored water. Repiping the home takes care of corrosion and leaks and provides clean, healthy water to your home.
More Hot Water
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that their hot water supply can also be affected by an outdated plumbing system. If the pipes are corroded or otherwise damage, they’re probably leaking every time water runs through the system. As a result, the hot water heater is unable to keep up with the demand for hot water throughout the home. Hot water seems to run out more quickly when there are leaks in the plumbing system. Replacing the pipe eliminates lost water in transit and allows the hot water tank to fill up more quickly.
Lower Water Bills
There are a few ways you can save money on water bills by repiping the house. Even small leaks can result in a lot of lost water, which occurs even when you’re not using any faucets or appliances. In addition, you’ll use more water washing and cleaning because of water pressure problems and because you’ll have to let the water run longer while waiting for it to get hot.
Replacing Outdated Materials
Another thing to consider is your family’s health. Many outdated piping systems were made out of lead pipes. This poses the risk of lead poisoning to you and your family. Newer polybutylene pipes don’t pose a health risk; however, they are more susceptible to breakage than the latest in plumbing technology, so replacing those types of pipes substantially decreases your risk of leaks. Contact Bullseye Leak Detection, Inc., today to begin the repiping process.
When Is the Right Time to Repipe Your Home
Older homes with galvanized pipes often end up needing repiping eventually. If you have older galvanized pipes in your house, could it be time to call for a repipe in Sacramento? According to leak detection experts, if you have lead or polybutylene pipes, it’s important to replace them immediately. Lead is toxic, and polybutylene is very fragile, which means it’s a pipe material that’s more likely to break and cause expensive damage to the home.
Leak detection experts at Bullseye Leak Detection, Inc., tell homeowners to stay alert of the following signs to know if repiping is something to consider soon.
Leaky Pipes
The most obvious sign of pipe damage is leaky pipes. When the home has numerous leaky pipe problems, homeowners must take notice. Multiple pipe leaks indicate that the problem isn’t localized or contained within a single damaged pipe. Instead, it’s a general problem that’s only going to get worse. Make plans now for leak repair and to discuss the possibility of repiping.
Discolored Water
The water that comes out of your showerheads and bathroom and kitchen taps should be clear. Any time there’s an issue with water clarity, it’s important to take notice, especially when the water appears rusty. This is a sign that the pipes have corroded. In addition to discoloration, pay attention to water that smells bad or has a metallic taste.
Low Water Pressure
Have you noticed your home’s water pressure has decreased over time? Is it getting harder and harder to get a consistent flow to wash dishes, run your water-using appliances, or take a shower? When water pressure issues happen throughout the home, the problem is likely a pipe issue. Call a leak detection service to come out to your home to explore the source of the problem.
Temperature Problems
This sign of pipe damage surprises many people. When corrosion occurs in galvanized pipes or through the natural aging process, you might notice you have more and more problems regulating water temperature. You might assume the problem is with your water heater, but this isn’t always the case. The real problem could be old, corrosive pipes.
Why Repiping Is Important
As mentioned at the beginning of this post, repiping is important because you don’t want damaged pipes running through your home. Eventually, the damage becomes so severe that you end up with expensive plumbing problems and water damage. Fortunately, this doesn’t have to be the outcome for you. Not when you take action as soon as you notice a problem.
Repiping doesn’t just stop leaks. It also adds value to your home. Do you plan to sell your home soon? Potential buyers are more likely to make a higher offer on older properties with newer pipes. They want to live worry-free in their new home and not have to deal with expensive plumbing repairs within the first few years.
Schedule Pipeline Leak Detection Service for Peace of Mind
Property owners who own older homes can give themselves peace of mind by hiring professionals to inspect their pipes. Sometimes, problems aren’t obvious. Professionals have equipment that makes it easier to find hidden pipe problems that pose serious threats.
Why Is It Important to Repipe an Aging Property?
There is a lot of charm to an older house that can’t be matched by new construction. Unfortunately, the old plumbing system in these older houses doesn’t add to the charm, and in many cases it can cause a lot of problems. In some cases, you may be able to get by with water leak repair in Sacramento, CA, while in other cases you may need to repipe your house. Here’s what you need to know about when to repipe your home, what’s involved, and why it’s important.
Signs You Should Repipe
Homes that are 50 years old or more often have galvanized pipes. If you’ve never replaced the pipes, there’s a good chance that they have started to corrode because of age and that you have one or more leaks. The risk of a pipe bursting increases the older the pipe gets. If you’re struggling with low water pressure and the plumber hasn’t identified another cause, the culprit could be old pipes that are blocked off with rust or corrosion. Red or brown water indicates that the pipes are rusted and should be replaced. In addition, if you’re dealing with frequent, multiple leaks, it’s a sign that the pipes are failing, and the best solution is to have the home repiped to save on water costs and repair costs.
How Repiping Works
Repiping a home doesn’t have to be as long and as messy as it sounds. Most repipe specialists use a technique that removes small sections of the wall in order to access the pipes that carry incoming water to the home. The time it takes depends on the size of your home. The plumber will obtain permits from the city, repipe the home in a few days, get the work inspected by the city, and then patch the holes in the drywall. Most of the pipes being replaced are galvanized, copper pipes, kitech, or defective pex. The replacement pipes are most likely made of cross-linked polyethylene. These pipes are quiet, flexible, lead-free, and have a long life expectancy.
Minimally Invasive
One reason it’s a good idea to replace your old pipes is that the process is minimally invasive and won’t disrupt your home as much as homeowners think. The holes are cut with precision to damage as little drywall as possible and to make it easier to repair once the repiping process is done. You’ll be able to stay in your home for the process, and, in most cases, the water can be turned on at the end of the first day.
Return On Investment
Replacing the pipes has a good return on investment, especially in the long run. Leaky pipes can wreak havoc on your home and water supply. It’s also hard on the wallet because of the cost of repairs and potential raises in insurance premiums with increased insurance claims. Replacing the pipes will help you avoid these problems down the road.
Reliability
Finally, repipe specialists in Sacramento use a proven process that results in effective leak repair that lasts for 100 years or more. The job will be done according to local code and requires a municipal inspection, so you can be sure the job is done right. To learn more about repiping your home, contact Bullseye Leak Detection, Inc. today by calling 916-760-8944.
Types of Pipes You Can Use to Repipe Your Home
Repiping is a big plumbing repair, but there comes a time when replacing the pipes in your home is the safest and most economical solution, especially if you’re frequently dealing with plumbing leak repairs and other issues with your outdated pipes. If you’re ready to repipe your home, you’re probably wondering what the best options for replacement pipes are. Here’s what you need to know about when to repipe as well as some of the most common materials used in repipe plumbing in Sacramento.
When to Repipe
The biggest reason most homeowners decide to repipe their homes is that they have old pipes that are experiencing continual problems. The main reason these problems keep cropping up is that many old houses used galvanized steel or iron pipes that are subject to corrosion. This corrosion will cause multiple issues such as sediment in the water that affects the taste and smell, noise when the water runs, and problems with leaks and clogs in the line. However, some newer homes that have polybutylene pipes installed might also need to be upgraded during a remodel. Or if you’re having issues with water contamination or leaks, you’ll need to replace your pipes. Repiping can solve plumbing issues like low water pressure, slab leaks, rusty or discolored water, and temperature fluctuations when flushing the toilet. If a plumber has confirmed the need for repiping, there are typically three main choices to consider.
Copper Pipe
Copper is the only type of metal piping still used in plumbing. Copper pipes are a great option because they’re small and rigid, so they’re able to be used in both outdoor and indoor plumbing. They’re far more resistant to corrosion than other metals that were used for plumbing in the past. In fact, copper pipes can last more than 100 years before they need to be replaced. They’re also fire and weather-resistant and usually come with a manufacturer’s warranty that’s decades-long. Another benefit of copper is that it’s 100% recyclable, so it’s good for the environment. The only downside of copper pipes is that they’re more difficult to install than other materials, which means the cost of installation goes up as well.
PVC
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is another popular option for plumbing pipes. Unlike polybutylene pipes that were typically used between the ’70s and ’90s, PVC pipe is more durable and easier to obtain, so it’s sometimes used to do a partial repiping project. They’re totally resistant to corrosion and don’t require any welding like metal pipes, making the installation easier. There are multiple fittings, it’s lightweight, and it’s more flexible than copper. It’s a very affordable option as well. A disadvantage of PVC is that it can be noisy when exposed to high temperatures. There is the potential for leaks if the joints aren’t properly installed with adhesive, so like other plumbing projects, it’s best to avoid doing it yourself.
PEX
PEX is high-density polyethylene that’s been through a cross-linked chemical reaction in order to be strong, resilient, and resistant to low temperatures. There are different types of PEX, depending on how the cross-linking method was done. The polyethylene is melted and extruded into a tube shape and is very flexible, so it’s easier and less expensive to ship. It can be bent to 90-degree angles without the risk of leaking. It doesn’t corrode or get scale buildup and resists freezing better than other materials. PEX is used in most modern plumbing and repiping projects. To learn more from a plumber in Sacramento, contact Bullseye Leak Detection, Inc., today.
When Should You Have Your Plumbing Repiped?
A total repipe of your home’s plumbing is a major project that most people don’t ever want to deal with. Sometimes, however, a repipe is the most affordable option for dealing with your plumbing issues. How do you know whether you should repair the current problem, get a main line replacement in Sacramento, CA, or repipe the entire home? Keep reading to find out.
How Often Are You Experiencing Leaks?
Leaks happen. Pipes will deteriorate or become damaged, leading to leaking, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that your home needs to be repiped completely. The real question is how often these leaks are occurring. An occasional leak is usually best dealt with directly, repairing that individual leak or replacing that single piece of pipe. However, if you’ve experienced several leaks on the same line of plumbing in a short period, this could indicate a more widespread failure in your plumbing system. In these cases, a repipe may be the better option to prevent leaks from constantly popping up in the future.
Is the Leak Inside or Outside Your Home?
Not all your pipes are inside your home. Lines like your water main line and sewer line run under your home’s foundation and out to the street. These can develop leaks and can be a nightmare to fix due to their difficult-to-reach locations. However, that doesn’t mean there’s a bigger problem with your plumbing. If your only leak is in the mainline or sewer line, your home’s plumbing is probably just fine. However, depending on the extent of the damage to your underground line, you may need a total main line replacement.
What Are Your Pipes Made Of?
Most modern homes have PVC plumbing or copper pipes, both of which are durable and reliable. Older homes, however, may have galvanized steel or cast iron pipes. These older types of plumbing are prone to some serious issues over time. Cast iron, for example, is susceptible to rust, which can be deposited into your water and become a health concern for your family. Galvanized steel corrodes more quickly than modern materials, and if you’ve bought an older home with this type of plumbing, the odds are that those pipes are reaching the end of their usable life.
If your pipes are made of these older materials, repiping your entire home may be the best option. It’s the only way to ensure you don’t continue to deal with new leaks month after month and will protect your family from any concerns regarding rust deposits in your drinking water.
How Frequent Are Your Clogs?
Like with leaks, clogs are bound to occur in any plumbing system. The homeowner can often tackle the occasional clogged toilet or slowed drain, and certainly isn’t a reason to repipe your home’s drainage pipes and sewage lines. However, if you’re experiencing persistent clogs, it indicates a much bigger problem. The issue could be with your sewer line; a blocked sewer line would cause sewage to back up into all of your drains pretty regularly. Or, your sewage lines just might be deteriorating to the point that it’s best to replace them all.
Note that this doesn’t necessarily mean all the pipes in your home need to be replaced. If your water supply lines are in good shape, they can stay just as they are. You would need to repipe the sewer and drainage lines from your home.
What Does Your Plumber Say?
The truth is, it’s impossible to know if you need to repipe your home without the input of a plumbing expert. The experts at Bullseye Leak Detection can thoroughly examine your entire plumbing system to determine the exact source of your troubles and advise you on whether a total repipe is necessary or if a simple repair will do the trick.
