Your home is at the heart of a family. It’s where you sleep, eat, spend time together, and make memories. It’s no wonder you want to do everything you can to ensure it’s functioning well. Repiping can add significant value to your home while ensuring it remains safe and secure for years to come. But how long does repiping last? Is it worth the thousands of dollars? The answer depends on the type of material you choose for your repiping job.
Depends On The Type of Material
There is no definitive answer for how long the repiping in your home will last. The longevity of your repiping depends on the material used. There is a wide range of materials you can choose from for your home. Each type of pipe material has its own lifespan, benefits, and potential drawbacks. Let’s break down the different types of piping you can have in your home and when they need to be replaced.
Lead
If you have lead pipes, they need to be replaced immediately due to severe health risks. Lead pipes are no longer used in modern plumbing because of the dangers they pose to your health, such as lead poisoning. Only older homes still have lead pipes, so if you suspect you have them, be sure to replace them as soon as you can.
Brass
Brass pipes have a lifespan of 80-100 years. They are highly durable and resistant to rust, making them a solid choice for longevity. It’s a great choice for longevity; however, it needs to be installed by a plumber who specializes in brass plumbing.
Copper
Copper pipes last about 70-80 years and have become increasingly popular in recent years. They are known for their reliability and corrosion resistance, and are a favorite for new installations. However, they are the most expensive option because of their durability and because they are the trickiest to install. You’ll need an experienced and expert plumber to install copper plumbing.
Galvanized Pipes
Galvanized pipes are made from cast iron or steel and can last 80-100 years. It was a popular choice for homes built before 1960. For many years, they’ve been a sturdy and durable option; however, they will rust and corrode over time, which can lead to reduced water pressure and health risks. They will need to be replaced with time.
PVC
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) pipes last between 25-40 years. They have become the most common modern replacement material for galvanized or lead pipes. They are lightweight, resistant to rust and corrosion, and are often used for drain lines and vent pipes. Compared to PEX pipes, they are also a cheap option for piping but are more rigid, which makes them a better choice for outdoor plumbing.
PEX
PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is a flexible plastic tubing that is resistant to corrosion and temperature extremes. It’s known for its durability and won’t clog, creak, break, or freeze. PEX typically lasts 40-50 years. It’s also one of the cheapest piping materials. However, they can become brittle over time, especially when exposed to UV light.
Signs of Trouble
Aging or corroding pipes can cause trouble for your home if left unchecked. If you’re unsure whether or not your home needs to be repiped, there are some telltale signs that your plumbing is past its prime. These signs include:
- Recurring leaks
- Low water pressure
- Water damage
- Discolored water
- Bad-smelling or tasting water
- Increased water bills
Repiping Alternatives
If you’re not ready to spend thousands replacing your pipes, there is a money-saving alternative that can help preserve your plumbing. Instead of completely replacing your pipes, consider pipelining. Pipelining can add decades to the life of your plumbing without the need for a full replacement. This process involves coating the inside of your existing pipes with an epoxy resin, preventing corrosion, leaks, and health hazards while saving you money in the long run.
Restore Your Home’s Plumbing
At Apex Plumbing, we specialize in both repiping and pipelining services. Our expert team is equipped with the latest technology to ensure your home’s plumbing system is both efficient and durable. Whether you need to replace old pipes or want to extend their lifespan with pipelining, Apex is here to help. For more information, visit our Pipelining Services
page or Repiping page, and let us keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly for years to come.
