What Does Whole House Repiping Entail?

Quick Answer

Whole-house repiping is the process of replacing all the water supply pipes in your home — a major but worthwhile upgrade that restores water pressure, eliminates leaks, and ensures clean, reliable water delivery. It typically involves inspecting your current plumbing, selecting durable new materials (like PEX or copper), removing the old system, and installing a new one that can last 50 years or more.

What Is Whole-House Repiping?

Whole-house repiping replaces your home’s entire network of water supply lines. Over time, pipes corrode, leak, or clog with mineral buildup, especially in older homes with galvanized steel or polybutylene piping. When that happens, small repairs stop being enough — and repiping becomes the long-term solution.

Common Signs You May Need Repiping

• Frequent leaks or pipe bursts
• Rusty, yellow, or cloudy water
• Low or inconsistent water pressure
• Noticeable water damage behind walls or under floors
• Pipes older than 40 years

If your home was built before the 1980s, it’s worth scheduling a plumbing inspection to assess your system’s condition.

What Does the Repiping Process Include?

1. Plumbing Inspection and Assessment

The process begins with a full plumbing inspection. A certified plumber checks your existing system using:

• Water pressure testing
• Pipe material analysis
• Leak detection technology
• Water quality checks

This step determines whether you truly need a full repipe or if partial replacement is sufficient.

2. Material Selection and Project Planning

Not all pipes are created equal. Your plumber will recommend materials based on your home’s needs, budget, and water supply.

Most Common Repiping Materials:

• PEX (Cross-linked polyethylene): Flexible, affordable, and corrosion-resistant
• Copper: Highly durable, lasts up to 70 years, and resistant to UV damage
• CPVC (Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride): Great for hot water lines and chemical resistance

The plumber also plans the route for the new system, minimizing wall and ceiling cuts whenever possible.

3. Preparation and Site Protection

Before installation begins:

• The main water supply is shut off
• Floors and furniture are covered with protective sheeting
• Small access points are cut in drywall or ceilings to reach existing pipe runs

This careful preparation keeps your home clean and minimizes disruption.

4. Removing Old Pipes

The outdated pipes — often galvanized steel or polybutylene — are removed and safely disposed of. This step may reveal hidden leaks or corrosion damage, which can then be repaired before the new pipes go in.

5. Installing the New Piping System

Your new piping network is routed through walls, ceilings, and under floors. Each fixture — sinks, toilets, showers, dishwashers, washing machines — is connected to the new system.

During installation, the plumber will:

• Add new shut-off valves
• Label supply lines
• Follow local building codes and permit requirements

6. Testing and Quality Assurance

Once installed, the system is thoroughly tested:

• Pressure testing: Ensures no leaks
• Flow testing: Confirms steady pressure
• Flushing: Removes debris and ensures clean, clear water

Only after all checks pass does the plumber restore water service to the home.

How Long Does Whole-House Repiping Take?

Most repiping projects take 2 to 5 days for an average 2–3 bathroom home.
For larger or more complex properties, the project may last up to 10 days.

After plumbing is complete, drywall repair and repainting usually follow within a few days.

How Much Does Whole-House Repiping Cost?

While every home is different, most homeowners in the Des Moines area can expect:

• PEX system: $4,000–$8,000
• Copper system: $8,000–$15,000

Price factors include:

• Size of the home
• Number of fixtures
• Accessibility of pipes (slab vs. crawl space)
• Choice of materials

Golden Rule provides upfront, flat-rate pricing before any work begins — no surprises, ever.

What Are the Benefits of Whole-House Repiping?

Investing in new plumbing provides both peace of mind and practical benefits:

✅ Reliable Water Pressure – Enjoy consistent flow throughout the home.
✅ Clean, Safe Water – Eliminates rust, corrosion, and contaminants.
✅ Fewer Repairs – No more patching leaks or replacing small sections.
✅ Higher Home Value – A modern plumbing system is a major selling point.
✅ Energy Efficiency – New piping improves water heater performance.

Is Whole-House Repiping Worth It?

Absolutely. While repiping is a significant project, it prevents future water damage, improves water quality, and adds decades of reliability to your home’s plumbing. For many homeowners, it’s a one-time investment that pays off through reduced maintenance and peace of mind.

What Happens After Repiping?

Once installation and testing are complete:

1. Walls and ceilings are patched and repainted.
2. The plumbing system is flushed and sanitized.
3. You receive documentation for materials, warranties, and workmanship.

Your new system should last 50+ years with minimal maintenance.

Next Steps: Schedule Your Plumbing Evaluation

If your home is showing signs of aging pipes — leaks, rusty water, or low pressure — it’s time for a professional inspection.

Golden Rule’s certified plumbers offer:

• Free in-home assessments
• Honest, upfront estimates
• Same-week repiping availability

Contact Us Today for Plumbing Service!

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