Is Repiping Your Houston Home or Business Necessary?

Posted on: April 14, 2016
By: Alan O'Neill
Posted in: Plumbing

If you own an older Houston area home or business, the answer just might be “Yes”. Most older homes in Houston were built using galvanized metal pipes. Galvanized pipes that are older than 10 years are more likely to interact with dissolved contaminants (like minerals, other metals and chemicals) that are found in the water. One of the first signs of this interaction is discoloration of the water that remains in the pipes overnight. The discoloration fades as the water is used. However, the problem with only get worse over time, since the water pressure will fade from the rust that builds up in the system. This can also lead to the water developing an unpleasant or metallic smell.

Corrosion can cause the metal of the pipes to become thin and easy to break. These leaks can cause wood to rot and other damage to your home. You may also begin to notice other changes in your water, like low water pressure or problems running more than one fixture at a time in addition to leaks and red or rusty looking water, more Houston area folks have found this to be the case you would imagine . If you are experiencing any of these signs, then it’s time to consult plumbing professionals. Repiping a home can be an invasive and tedious process and our licensed plumbers have the skills and knowledge to make sure your home is taken care of properly.

There are many types of pipe that can be used in repiping your Houston home and each have their benefits.

• PEX Pipes are flexible plastic tubes and are the fastest and easiest kinds of pipe to install in your home. PEX tubing is made from crosslinked HDPE (high density polyethylene) polymer. PEX plumbing has been in use in Europe since about 1970 and was introduced in the U.S. around 1980. The use of PEX piping has increased ever since, It replaces copper pipe in many applications, especially radiant heating systems installed in the slab under floors or walkways. It is an excellent material that resists freezing and corrosion. These pipes also don’t conduct much heat to the surrounding air, so you can get hotter water to your faucets.
• Copper Pipes are very common because they are durable and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Copper pipes naturally resist bacterial growth and fire.
• PVC Pipes are rigid plastic and vinyl pipes that resist corrosion and do not rot or wear over time. They can withstand major bending and movement. PVC pipes can be used indoors or underground due to the variety of thickness and diameter the pipes come in.
• CPVC pipes are also made of rigid plastic material and have great strength and flexibility. They are also resistant to corrosion and don’t wear out over time. These pipes are primarily used for hot water lines because of their heat resistance. Compared to PVC pipes, these pipes are generally thinner and can handle hotter water temperatures. Like PVC pipes, they cannot be exposed to sunlight, so they are only used indoors or underground.

What is the process of repiping a home?

First, you need a reliable, licensed plumber to perform a comprehensive inspection and provide a detailed quote. Typically, a repiping project means completely replacing the corroded piping with one of the plastic PEX, PVC, or CPVC options or copper for both the cold and hot water supply lines. Drains and faucets don’t always need to be replaced, but corroded pipes can seriously degrade and damage appliances and the hot water heater. You should have your plumber check the supply lines for damage.

Next, your plumber will inform you of what to expect during the repiping. And, you’ll want to prepare for a bit of a mess. You may be water-less several days. Abacus plumbers will try to speed the process along, so your inconvenience is minimal. Ask your plumber about how protect your furniture and belongings during the repiping. Then, it’s time to remove the old pipes and install the new ones. Your plumber and his crew will replace the pipes in your home one section at a time. This means cutting open the walls and ceilings to remove the old pipes.

Once the system has been replaced, most cities require an inspection by a plumbing inspector. After you get the greenlight, your plumber will perform one last system test and double check for any leaks. Abacus works with many drywall contractors and they can help you patch up the walls.

Not many homeowners would say that a repipe is a pleasant experience. But, the consequences can be disastrous. Toxic water, bad smells, low water pressure, and hidden leaks are sometimes only the beginning. Get the job done right by a qualified plumbing contractor.

Abacus Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electrical is a full service residential contractor that has been serving the greater Houston area for over 50 years. Abacus is a member of the Greater Houston Chamber of Commerce and has an A+ rating on the Better Business Bureau of Houston. Abacus is licensed and insured and offers 24/7 emergency service. To learn more about Abacus Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical, visit www.abacusplumbing.net or call 713-766-3605. License Numbers: ALAN O'NEILL M-20628 | TACLB82488E | TECL 30557

Abacus Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electrical services the greater DFW area including, but not limited to: Houston, Humble, Baytown, Bellaire, Conroe, Katy, Spring, Sugar Land, The Woodlands and more. Check out Abacus Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electrical reviews or see Abacus A+ BBB to confirm Abacus is a company you can trust.