Is there a problem with your pipes?

While your pipes are meant to withstand constant use and abuse over the years, they won’t last forever. Because your plumbing system is used multiple times every day, you may eventually have to deal with pipe repairs or consider repiping the entire system.

Your pipes will often give warning signs that something is wrong. Some of the most common and most obvious signs of a pipe issue in your home include:

Leaky Pipes—If you notice any dripping sounds coming from within your walls or ceilings or you see signs of water damage, your pipes likely contain at least one hole.
Rusting Pipes—If your pipes are old or of poor quality, they may start rusting at some point. You may notice a metallic taste, color, or smell if your pipes are rusting.
Low Water Pressure—Low water pressure could mean that your pipes are backed up due to corrosion.
High Water Bills—If your water bills have started increasing, but you haven’t been using any more water than usual, it’s a big red flag. Even a small leak within your piping can cause your water bills to increase.

If you have noticed any of the above signs of a piping issue, you may need either pipe repair or complete repiping. Learn more about the differences between the two and how to tell which one is best for your home below.

What’s the difference between repiping and pipe repair?

Repiping and pipe repair are both common pipe services performed to fix broken, old, or leaky pipes. Here are some basic differences between the two:

Pipe Repair—Pipe repair is a temporary fix. It’s better for smaller issues, like infrequent, minor leaks. It involves fixing a specific section of pipe, wherever the issue is occurring.
Repiping—Repiping is a permanent solution to a recurring issue or a larger problem. It involves completely replacing the entire piping system in your home. Repiping may involve installing new copper or PEX piping or relining the pipes with an epoxy material.

Which one do you need?

It can be hard to tell which one of the two methods is right for your home. This is why we recommend having your pipes inspected by a licensed plumber, who can determine the right cause and solution. Here are a couple of appropriate situations for each one:

Pipe Repair—If your pipe bursts, it’s considered a plumbing emergency and will be need to be fixed as soon as possible. In these cases, a pipe repair is in your best interest, as it can provide you with a faster solution than repiping.
Repiping—If your pipes were installed before the 1960s, they were likely made with galvanized steel piping and are prone to corrosion. You may want to consider repiping for a more efficient system. Also, if your pipes were not installed correctly or are not up to code, you’ll want to repipe.

If you think you may need repiping or pipe repair services, click below to learn more about what we can do for you.

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