MAKING MAJOR RENOVATIONS? CONSIDER RE-PIPING YOUR HOME AT THE SAME TIME

Here is a closer look at the re-piping process and how to tell if your home requires this type of work.

The first thing to consider is the age of your pipes. Galvanized steel supply pipes usually last 20 to 50 years before they start developing major issues. Copper pipes last about 70 to 80 years, on average.

If your pipes are approaching their terminal age, it's a good idea to have them replaced while you're remodeling — even if they still seem to be working well. You would not want to leave the old pipes in place only for them to start leaking and developing extensive corrosion five years down the road.

Polybutylene pipes, which were popular until the 1970s, become increasingly brittle with age and are prone to random breaks. If you have polybutylene pipes, you should absolutely have them replaced during your remodel to prevent major leaks.

Even if your pipes are relatively new, have your plumber look them over and discuss the possibility of re-piping if you notice any of the following signs of pipe failure.

Rust in the water is a sign that your galvanized steel pipes have begun to corrode. If you do not replace them soon, the rust may wear through the pipes and cause leaks.

Low water pressure is an indication that your pipes have accumulated large mineral deposits. This is most common in homes with very hard water. There is no effective way to remove the deposits.

If you have had to call your plumber to repair numerous small leaks over the past few years, you may be best off replacing your pipes and starting over.

Basically, your plumber will remove all existing pipes in your home and replace them with new ones. This process usually takes between three and five days. Your plumber can coordinate with the other contractors who are renovating your home to figure out the easiest time to replace the pipes. They typically want to re-pipe a home after the old walls have been torn down but before the new walls are put up.

Today, there are only two materials that plumbers typically use for supply pipes: copper and PEX. PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene, is a flexible material that will resemble a garden hose. Copper pipes are preferable to old galvanized steel pipes since copper is much less prone to corrosion and mineral deposits.

Copper and PEX both have their advantages and disadvantages. PEX is more affordable and is more efficient when used for hot water lines since it does not transfer heat as easily as copper. However, copper is a more classic-looking option if you plan to leave any of your pipes exposed, and it has a longer track record of success, so some homeowners feel more confident choosing copper pipes. Your plumber can discuss PEX and copper pipes with you and help you settle on the best option.

Most drain pipes these days are made from PVC or polyvinyl-chloride. Your drain lines may not even need replacing when you have your home re-piped. Since they are under less pressure than supply lines, they tend to last a lot longer.

The easiest time to have your home re-piped is when you are already doing major renovations. If you're looking for a plumber to re-pipe your home in the Fresno or Clovis area, contact Art Douglas Plumbing Inc. We can come look over your pipes and discuss re-piping options with you.