Signs the supply pipes are wearing out
Pinhole leaks that keep appearing in different spots, discolored or rusty water, low pressure at several fixtures, green stains on copper joints and repeated patch repairs all point to pipe near the end of its life. A single leak does not mean you need a repipe. A pattern of leaks does.
If a pipe has already burst, see burst pipe repair first. Repiping is the planned answer after the emergency.
Repair or repipe: how to decide
| Situation | Usual answer |
|---|---|
| One leak in otherwise sound pipe | Repair |
| Second or third leak in a year | Plan a repipe |
| Rusty water from the tap | Test the supply, may need repipe |
| Low pressure at several fixtures | Check for corrosion, may need repipe |
| Remodel opening walls | Good time to repipe |
A plumber who cannot show you why the whole system needs replacing is guessing. Ask to see the pipe from several places and to hear the reasoning.
How a repipe works
- Survey. The plumber maps the supply lines, fixtures and shutoffs and chooses the route.
- Quote. You get a written price covering pipe, fixtures reconnected, wall access and patching.
- Rough-in. New lines are run through walls, attic or crawlspace, and the old lines are abandoned or removed.
- Connect and test. Fixtures are reconnected, the system is pressure tested and the water is restored.
- Patch and inspect. Access holes are patched, and any required inspection is completed.
Work is usually done over a few days with the water off for part of each day. Plan for that, and ask how the plumber will keep you in water at night.
Planning a repipe? Call for an honest survey of your pipes.
Call (650) 860-1670What decides the cost of a repipe
- House size and layout. More bathrooms and kitchens means more pipe and more connections.
- Pipe material. Copper and PEX differ in materials and labor.
- Access. Open crawlspaces and attics are faster than finished walls.
- Number of fixtures. Each fixture is a connection.
- Wall patching and permit. Drywall repair and permit fees are part of the budget.
Because a repipe is a large project, get more than one written quote and compare what each includes. Ask about wall repair and who handles it. A repipe may improve water pressure and flow.
Pipe materials in plain terms
| Material | Strengths | Points to weigh |
|---|---|---|
| Copper | Long track record, rigid, heat tolerant | Higher material cost, soldered joints |
| PEX | Flexible, fewer joints, faster to install | Not for outdoor sun exposure, needs the right fittings |
| CPVC | Lower cost, rigid plastic | Brittle with age in some conditions |
The best choice depends on the house, the water and your preferences. Ask the plumber why they recommend what they do and what the warranty covers on pipe and labor.
What to do before the crew arrives
- Move furniture away from walls and clear attic and crawlspace access.
- Photograph rooms and walls for a record of their condition.
- Plan where to wash, cook and use the bathroom during water-off hours.
- Ask for a daily schedule in writing.
- Confirm who will patch and paint access holes.
Mid-century homes and when to plan
Monta Loma's Fairview Eichlers date to about 1954 to 1957 according to the City's historic context, and Blossom Valley's ranch subdivisions to the 1950s and 1960s. Houses of that age may have had one repipe already, or none. If you are buying one, ask the seller what the supply pipe is and when it was replaced.
Ask the Building Division at 650-903-6313 whether your project needs a permit. The City's pages we reviewed do not spell it out, so confirm for your address.
New supply piping in California is installed to the California Plumbing Code, published by IAPMO, which also publishes the UPC, and a permit and inspection may apply to your address.
Repiping questions
How do I know if I need a repipe?
A pattern is the signal. Several leaks in a short time, rusty water and low pressure at multiple fixtures point toward it. One leak usually does not.
How long does a repipe take?
Often a few days for an average house, depending on layout and access. The plumber gives a schedule when you get the quote.
Do I need to move out during a repipe?
Usually not, but the water will be off for periods. Ask how the plumber will handle nights and weekends.
Will a repipe damage my walls?
Some wall access is needed. The plumber patches the openings, and painting is separate.
Is a repipe covered by insurance?
Usually not, though resulting water damage may be. Check your policy.