Need to Repipe a House? Here’s What to Know
Repiping your house might sound like a major project (and it is) but for many homeowners, it’s the best way to stop persistent plumbing problems for good. Whether you’re dealing with leaks, low water pressure, or damage from winter’s frozen pipes, the need to repipe can become clear fast.
In this guide, we’ll break down what repiping actually means, how to tell if it’s time, what to expect during the process, and why spring is the perfect season to get it done.
What Does It Mean to “Repipe” a House?
To repipe a house means replacing the plumbing pipes throughout your home. This typically refers to the supply lines that deliver clean water to faucets, showers, and appliances. This process usually involves removing old, deteriorating pipes and installing new ones made from modern, durable materials like PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) or copper.
Repiping isn’t just about fixing the occasional leak. This focuses more on solving a bigger issue at the source. Over time, plumbing systems can break down due to a number of factors:
- Age and material (especially in homes built before the 1980s)
- Hard water corrosion from mineral buildup
- Extreme temperature changes, like freezing and thawing pipes in winter
- Poor water pressure, often caused by internal pipe scaling
- Outdated installation practices that no longer meet today’s building codes
Rather than patching leaks one by one, a full repipe gives your home a fresh, modern plumbing system that delivers better water quality, stronger pressure, and fewer surprises. It’s a long-term investment that addresses hidden damage and helps future-proof your property.
Common Signs You Might Need to Repipe
Not sure if your home needs a full repipe or just another repair? Here are some signs your plumbing system may be due for a full repipe:
- Low water pressure throughout the house
- Discolored or rusty water
- Frequent leaks or small pipe bursts
- Noticeable corrosion on exposed pipes
- Strange smells or metallic taste in tap water
- Recurring clogs even after cleaning or snaking
If your home is over 40 years old and has never been repiped, these signs are even more urgent. In other words, it may be time to consider a whole home repipe to prevent costly damage. Older plumbing systems, especially those made from galvanized steel or polybutylene, are more likely to corrode, crack, or fail unexpectedly. Waiting too long can turn a manageable upgrade into an emergency repair.
Don’t wait for a major plumbing failure to force your hand! Reach out to On Call today to schedule a professional inspection to help you determine if it’s time to repipe.
How Winter Weather Can Lead to Spring Repiping Projects
Cold weather is one of the biggest culprits behind unexpected pipe damage. During the winter, water inside pipes can freeze, expand, and crack the pipe walls. Sometimes the damage isn’t immediately obvious and only becomes apparent when temperatures rise again and the system is under more regular use.
Homeowners often discover leaks or water damage well after the last frost — making spring one of the busiest times for repiping. For more on preventing winter plumbing emergencies, check out our frozen pipe prevention guide.
What to Expect During a Whole-House Repiping Job
A full repipe usually takes 3 to 7 days, depending on the size of the house and the plumbing system’s layout. Here’s what typically happens:
- Initial Inspection: A licensed plumber evaluates your current plumbing system and makes recommendations.
- Access & Removal: Walls, ceilings, or floors may be opened to access old pipes. These are then removed.
- Installation of New Pipes: New piping (typically PEX or copper) is installed throughout the home.
- System Testing: Your new system is pressure-tested and inspected for leaks.
- Restoration: Walls and finishes are patched up, and your plumbing is ready to go.
Don’t worry — professional teams like On Call Plumbing work efficiently to minimize disruption and keep your home tidy throughout the process.
Copper vs. PEX: What’s Right for Your Home?
When it comes to repiping your home, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing the right material. Both copper and PEX are excellent piping materials, but they offer different benefits depending on your home’s needs, budget, and environment:
- PEX is flexible, easier to install, and highly resistant to freezing. This makes it an ideal option for areas prone to cold snaps, like Columbia and Lexington, SC.
- Copper is durable and has a long lifespan. However, it can be more expensive and harder to install.
Your plumber will help you choose the right material based on your home’s needs, local codes, and your budget. If you’re still unsure, the team at On Call Plumbing is always here to walk you through your options and answer any questions you have — no pressure, just honest advice. Give us a call and we’ll be more than happy to help!
Why Spring Is the Ideal Time for a Repiping Project
There’s no bad time to fix a failing plumbing system, but spring is often the most convenient:
- The weather is milder, so you’re less likely to need heating or cooling while water is temporarily shut off.
- Post-winter issues are fresh, making this the perfect time to address hidden freeze damage.
- You can plan ahead, rather than waiting for another emergency or leak to occur.
Scheduling a Whole Home Repipe in Lexington, SC
If you’re experiencing persistent leaks, rusty water, or the aftermath of winter pipe damage, a whole-house repipe might be the smart move. It’s an investment in your home’s long-term safety, efficiency, and value.
At On Call Plumbing, Heating & Air, we make repiping as stress-free as possible. From consultation to cleanup, our team handles every step with care, quality, and clear communication.