Water leaks can be a big issue for Los Angeles homeowners. While small leaks are common and easy to fix, bigger problems can lead to major headaches. If you’re experiencing ongoing plumbing problems or thinking about a remodel, it may be time to re-pipe your home.
Find out all you need to know about re-piping, including when you should consider re-piping and what to expect from the renovation.
What Is Meant by Re-piping a Home?
Re-piping is a full replacement of old pipes. It involves removing all the old, broken pipes and replacing them with new pipes. This is typically done in an older home with outdated materials or recurrent plumbing problems.
When Would a Homeowner Need to Re-pipe a Home?
Not sure if it’s time to replace your pipes? Here are some signs a re-piping is in order:
Your Home Has Lead Pipes or Galvanized Steel Pipes
Homes that are a century old, or older, usually still have their lead pipes. If leaked into the water supply, lead can have detrimental health effects. For those unsure of what pipes are in your home, it’s worth it to call in a professional for an inspection.
Homes from the mid-century have plumbing systems with galvanized steel pipes. Though durable, galvanized steel pipes are prone to corrosion. Over time, this can lead to leaks or cause sediment to build up in the pipes, reducing the water supply. Similar to lead pipes, galvanized steel can also leak into your water and contaminate it.
No Matter How Many Times You Fix Your Pipes, They’re Still Broken
Pipes with recurrent leaks and repairs can cost you a lot of money. If this is happening, it may be more practical to simply re-pipe your home. The upfront cost is more, but it’ll save you money on constant plumbing repairs.
You’re Remodeling Your Home
If you’re planning a remodel that includes a bathroom, kitchen, or other plumbing fixtures, you may want to consider whether re-piping is a good investment. If you simply install a new system in the remodel, you could run into problems where the two plumbing systems connect.
Before You Start – Get an Inspection and Estimate
Re-piping your home is a major home renovation and investment. You want to check with different plumbers to inspect the condition of your pipes and get an estimate on the work. Consider getting quotes from multiple local plumbers to see which is the right fit for you.
What to Expect During the Re-pipe Process
While re-piping your entire home, plumbers will need access to any rooms with pipes in them. Usually, this work is done over several days. Here’s what you should expect:
Preparations
To access the pipes in your walls and install new ones, the plumber will need to be able to cut holes in the drywall. You must take steps to protect your furniture and any valuables that could be damaged, such as electronics or artwork.
You’ll also be without water for some of the work. The plumber will need to shut off the water supply to connect the new system, and you won’t have water during that period. If you need running water, speak with the plumber in advance to plan the right period for the water service to be shut off with minimal disruption.
Give the Plumber Access
Before the plumber arrives, make sure to move furniture away from the walls and take down any wall hangings or artwork to give the plumber access to your walls. Even if you think there aren’t any pipes in the walls, take these steps to make things easier if your plumber needs to do work in that room.
How Long Does the Process Take?
Depending on the size of your home and the extent of the plumbing system, you may be looking at a few days or a week for re-piping. You’ll be without water for some of this time and dealing with work in multiple rooms, so plan accordingly.
Permitting
Re-piping your home requires a work permit, which you can obtain from the local municipality. It’s important to get this permit after the initial work is completed.
Inspection and Finishing
After all the pipes are installed, you will need an inspector to come and check the work. Once the inspector signs off, your plumber will be able to repair and repaint the drywall to restore the look of your walls.
If it’s time to re-pipe your home, contact JW Plumbing, Heating and Air to schedule your consultation!
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