Water leaks can damage everything in the vicinity of the leak. Some leaks can be repaired without too much work, but if the pipes have reached the end of their life or are damaged beyond repair, there is a chance that you will need to have the plumbing repiped.
Because of the work that is involved in a repipe job, it is best to hire someone familiar with this type of work. You have to find a reputable licensed plumber who can get the job done so you don't have to worry about a shoddy job. You have to be able to count on the plumber you hire to do things the right way.
What is a Repipe Job?
A repipe job is anything that involves having to replace the pipes that carry water around your home. These jobs can involve replacing different types of pipes, including Pex, copper, brass, or PVC. In some cases, galvanized piping is replaced.
How long do Pipes Last?
The amount of time that pipes last depends on the purpose of the pipes and the type of pipes used. Typically, supply pipes won't last as long as drain pipes. This is because supply pipes are under pressure and drain pipes aren't. If the supply pipes in the house fail, they are more likely to cause water damage.
When it comes to drain pipes, PVC pipes will last an average of 25 to 40 years and cast iron pipes will last an average of 80 to 100 years. For supply pipes, galvanized steel and brass pipes are good for an average of 80 to 100 years, while copper pipes are good for an average of 70 to 80 years.
It is important to note that just because your home's pipes are reaching that age, that doesn't mean you need to have the house repiped. Instead, contact a plumber who can come out and evaluate the pipes to let you know the status of the system.
Will my Whole House need to be Repiped?
The extent of the repipe job depends on the condition of your pipes. There is a chance that only one area of the pipes will need to be replaced. However, some older homes might need a more extensive repipe job. If there are multiple places where the plumbing is leaking or weak, having the entire house repiped all at once might be the best option.
Can I stay Home while the Project is Done?
You are always welcome to stay home while a project is being completed. You must be prepared to go without running water or the ability to get rid of water waste. If the supply pipes are being worked on, supply to the home will be disconnected while the job is done. If the drain pipes are the ones being worked on, the system that allows you to flush toilets or drain water won't be functional.
Honestly, you might feel more comfortable somewhere else while the job is being completed, but you're more than welcome to stay home if you don't mind dealing with the disruption in service.
Do I need any Permits to have this Job Completed?
You do need permits for plumbing jobs in Texas. In Houston, for example, permits are valid for 180 days. They can also be extended for a longer period. If you hire a licensed plumber, the plumber is responsible for getting the permits. That means you don't have to worry about the permit process, which includes inspections and applications.
How much is a Repipe going to Cost me?
The ultimate cost of a repipe project depends on the extent of the job. The type of pipes that you currently have and the type of pipes that you are going to use as replacements also play a part in the cost of the job. Having a full estimate before the job is started can help you to get a better idea of the cost.
Sources:
https://www.houstonpermittingcenter.org/code-enforcement/permits.html#required
