Pipe replacement can have many benefits, but is it always necessary? A high-quality pipe repair can restore your plumbing system. The choice you make depends on many factors. Your local plumbing services company can help you weigh the options.
In this article, we’ll discuss what goes into making crucial decisions regarding your plumbing system. We will also list the signs you need a plumber and how one can simplify the decision-making process. Lastly, the benefits of pipe repair and pipe replacement will be explained to help you understand their significance.
Factors to Consider In Your Decision
The best course of action isn’t always obvious. It often takes a trained eye to find the best solution. Piping issues can be far-reaching, especially as a system ages. A plumbing contractor weighs the following considerations when deciding whether to go with a repair or replacement:
- The Extent of the Damage: A localized problem can often be repaired quickly. However, extensive damage, corrosion, multiple leaks, and other widespread issues can warrant pipe replacement. This approach may also be recommended if pipes are poorly laid out, have many tight bends and joints, are severely worn, or run through exterior walls where they’re prone to freezing.
- Repair Frequency: If your plumbing is decades old, the occasional pipe repair isn’t concerning. But if your home constantly has plumbing issues and you’re dealing with one repair after another, the underlying problem may be more substantial. Full pipe replacement is often more practical and less costly than having plumbing repairs over and over again.
- Type of Pipe: Cast iron and PVC pipe lasts about 50 years. A PEX pipe can last 50 years or more. Some copper pipes can last 75 to 100 years, although depending on the variety, it may last only 20. Galvanized steel pipe is known for longevity but is prone to rust and corrosion.
Aside from age, whether a pipe is safe or obsolete matters. Some older pipes are made of lead, which has many health risks, and, in some places, wood pipe was used. Much better materials are available!
- Age of the Pipe/Plumbing System: Your plumbing may contain pipes installed at different times. In addition to each pipe’s years in service, you must consider the age of the entire system. The older it is, the more repairs it’s likely to need, and the more outdated certain materials may be.
- Pipe Layout: Are your pipes hard to access or difficult to inspect with modern camera systems? These issues can make pipe repair more expensive. An aging system will likely need more repairs anyway. Therefore, pipe replacement can save you money and simplify future services; if the original layout is complex, a plumbing contractor can find all the pipes in your house and make improvements.
- Cost: Over time, patching up your plumbing system can cost more in materials and labor than replacing it. Replacement costs more upfront but future repair expenses can be highly uncertain. Plus, a new plumbing install should be covered by a warranty. You can also choose higher-quality, longer-lasting materials to increase long-term value.
- Disruptions: Plumbing repairs are often disruptive. They can be noisy and messy. Depending on the project, it may involve breaking through drywall, ceilings, or floors. Digging or jackhammering is sometimes required. With repairs, these disruptions can be recurring. Meanwhile, pipe replacement is a one-time inconvenience that improves and modernizes your plumbing system.
- Your Home’s Overall Condition: If your plumbing system is outdated, other systems, including electrical, could be too, so pipe replacement makes sense as part of a full home remodel. Moving piping is easier when you’re changing overall floor layouts. Such a project is intensive but can pay off. It can increase property value; therefore, a higher home sale can help recoup some of the project costs.
- Long-Term Goals: Your plans can factor into whether to repair or replace your home’s pipes. Replacing your plumbing system can be a wise investment whether you plan to stay or want to increase the property’s resale value.
- Increased Demand: An increase in water pressure, home size, or number of occupants can necessitate upgrading your plumbing system. This may entail installing larger, more durable pipes that improve performance and increase your water supply.
Signs You Need Pipe Repair or Replacement
Plumbing issues can manifest in several ways. The longer you wait to address them, the more serious the damage can become, and the more costly it is to fix. Call a plumbing contractor when you notice the following:
- A sudden spike in your water bill
- Increased moisture and dampness
- Stains on walls and ceilings
- Damaged paint, wallpaper, or tiles
- Pipes are visibly cracked, corroded, or broken
- Persistent running water sounds
- Moldy or sewage odors
- Cracks in the foundation
- Rodents, insects, and other pests
- Overgrown plants near sewer or water lines
How a Plumber Can Help Choose Between Pipe Repair or Replacement
Part of a plumber’s job is to help you make an informed decision. Whether you repair or replace piping, each option has advantages. There are many factors to consider but a professional assessment can determine whether to repair your plumbing or choose pipe replacement. A plumbing technician can help with the following steps:
- Diagnostics/Detection: From pipe inspection cameras to infrared or acoustic leak detectors, a technician has many tools to help diagnose the problem and its scope. They can also identify hidden issues to provide a clear picture of your plumbing system’s health.
- Solutions/Recommendations: The data they gather can help your plumber recommend the most effective solution. By analyzing the situation, they can advise moving forward with a pipe repair. Depending on the circumstances, they may suggest replacing pipe segments, complete lines, or your entire plumbing system.
- Time/Cost Estimate: Once a professional thoroughly assesses your plumbing, they can provide an estimate of how long a repair or replacement job will take. They can also estimate what it will cost. Therefore, you can plan and budget accordingly.
- Execute the Project: The plumber will formulate a pipe repair or replacement plan and implement the tasks needed to complete it. Smaller projects may include patching or sealing a pipe. Or, a small pipe section may need to be replaced.
Other techniques include pipe relining, in which an existing pipe is fit with a new material to restore a damaged section. However, pipe replacement can resolve more widespread issues. Careful planning and execution can minimize disruption, speed up the process, and achieve long-term success.
- Testing/Verification: Once the job is complete, a plumber performs tests to ensure the repair is effective. They’ll determine if a pipe is leak-free and water pressure is at an acceptable level.
Benefits of Pipe Repair
Inline repairs allow plumbers to seal leaks or prevent them from occurring. They can remove small damaged pipe sections if necessary and solder, cement, or secure replacements. A similar process can be achieved with sewer lines. Trenchless techniques minimize digging and require only small access points to insert a liner or new pipe segment.
Repairing pipes:
- Saves money on labor and materials.
- Is often quick and involves little disruption.
- Yields lasting results when done properly.
Benefits of Pipe Replacement
Replacing pipes can have many advantages. Whether your plumbing is prone to leaks or no longer meets your household’s needs, it can add value. No one wants to deal with persistent plumbing problems and replacement provides you with a fresh start. It also has the potential to yield long-term savings.
Replacing pipes:
- Reduces the frequency of repairs.
- Eliminates concerns over inferior or outdated materials.
- Improves safety and water efficiency.
Call Air Stars for Plumbing Repair or Replacement
Air Stars is a full-service plumbing contractor based in Kieser, OR. Our licensed technicians work with homeowners in Salem, Monmouth, Woodburn, Silverton, and surrounding areas. Whether you need pipe repair or pipe replacement, we’ll find the right solution and ensure your plumbing system is functional and up-to-date. We use the highest quality materials and the latest techniques to achieve lasting results. To schedule an appointment or learn more about our other plumbing services, call (503) 868-2383 today.
