Repiping a house is a significant investment many homeowners face once their plumbing becomes outdated or stops functioning effectively. The cost of repairing, however, depends on several factors. This guide will discuss when you need to repipe your house and how much repiping will cost.
5 Signs You Need to Repipe Your House
Poor Water Pressure
A well-operating plumbing system has proper water pressure. Too high pressure can cause stress on the pipes, leading to leaks and damage, while too low pressure won’t provide you with the needed water. If you notice your pressure diminishing over time, it may be time to contact the plumbing experts at Goodbee Plumbing for an evaluation.
Noisy Pipes
When running your water, do you hear banging, squealing, or shrieking noises? These are warning signs and should be taken seriously. Once you hear these noises, contact your local plumber to help assess the situation and determine whether you need to repipe the whole house or if there is another fix to your issue.
Visible Corrosion
No one wants to see corrosion on their pipes. Deterioration means that a pinhole leak or pipe burst may soon occur. Any discoloration, flaking, or weird-looking rusty stains are a clear sign that the pipes are reaching their end. Anytime you see any corrosion, give the team at Goodbee a buzz, and we’ll let you know the necessary steps.
Discolored Water
Signs that you may need new pipes go beyond the exterior. If the water appears yellow or brown, the inside of your pipes may have corrosion. However, it’s important to note that if the discoloration only occurs when using hot water, the problem may not be your pipes but your water heater.
Smelly or Bad Tasting Water
If you smell something rusty or resembling sulfur, it’s a sign of metal flakes in your water. Additionally, if it tastes unpleasant, there is the same issue. Addressing this problem is a top priority since water is used so much throughout the day. By contacting Goodbee Plumbing, we can send an expert out immediately.
How Much Does Repiping Your House Cost?
Several factors affect the cost of repiping a house. Keep reading to learn more.
House Size
Larger houses generally require more piping, so when considering how much it costs to repipe a house, it’s a guarantee the larger the home, the more expensive the project.
Project Complexity
If your home also has multiple stories, that will raise the cost of the repiping project since the infrastructure will be more complex. Basements and hard-to-reach areas will also increase the overall project cost.
Material Selection
Various materials have different costs. For example, copper pipes are highly common when repiping because they are durable. However, they are more expensive than PVC or PEX pipes. Therefore, before beginning the repiping project, consider each material’s pros and cons.
Copper
Copper is a strong material and won’t fall to pipe failure. However, small holes can form in copper pipes that require an expert to fix. There is also a chance of corrosion. However, our team has compiled a guide to help you in this situation!
PEX
If you are repiping your whole house and don’t want to go with copper, professionals will suggest PEX. These pipes are plastic and are less expensive than copper. They are also easy to install, meaning that your installation cost will be cheaper. However, there is a risk of PEX pipes splitting. While it is rare, it is essential to note.
PVC
PVC pipes are one of the most common due to their cost and ability to withstand high temperatures. However, when the project encompasses your whole house, there might be better options since they can become brittle over time and will require replacing sooner than the above options.
Additional Repairs
If the repiping project makes any additional repairs necessary, your price will increase. For example, you might need to repair drywall, flooring, or landscaping that was impacted throughout the process.
Repiping a House: Cost Breakdown
If you’ve ever asked yourself how much does it cost to repipe a house, the answer is anywhere from $4,000 to $15,000; however, it can exceed $15,000 depending on the project. The range is influenced by the above, the region you live in, and contractor rates. Below is a breakdown of the cost estimates.
Labor Costs
Labor charges are typically one of the most significant portions of the cost. Labor covers the plumber’s time, expertise, and additional staff if required. The range fluctuates depending on your plumber’s rates but will range from 25% to 75% of the total cost. At Goodbee, we drain your pipes, not your wallet, so contact us today for an affordable fee.
Permit and Inspection Fees
If repiping your house, you must comply with local building codes and regulations. Permit fees and inspection costs vary, so be sure to do your research before starting the project.
Contact Goodbee Plumbing for Your Home Repiping Needs
Never wonder how much it costs to repipe a house or any other plumbing questions. Our team is here to help at any time. We are a premier plumbing company that you can afford. We understand the importance of having lasting, reliable plumbing systems and are here to help with all your plumbing needs. Give us a buzz if you have any questions, or to learn about DIY plumbing projects or fixes, check out our blog.