Is Whole-Home Re-piping the Right Solution for You?
Minor plumbing issues, such as leaky fittings and clogged pipes, are usually quick and easy fixes. Unfortunately, not all problems lend themselves to such simple solutions. If the plumbing in your home is aging or corroded, repairing a leaking pipe may only be a temporary band-aid. You’ll likely continue having problems, necessitating further repairs and wasting more money. A better solution may be whole-home re-piping, which involves the removal and replacement of your entire plumbing system. Since pipes are usually hidden from view, you’ll need to rely on indirect clues to determine when to explore re-piping services. The most common indicators include:
- Weak or inconsistent water pressure across multiple fixtures
- Frequent water leaks or clogs in different areas of your home
- Discolored, foul-smelling or metallic-tasting water
The Problem With Polybutylene Piping
Even if your pipes are seemingly in good shape, there may be another important reason to have them replaced: polybutylene. Polybutylene (PB) is a plastic resin manufactured between 1975 and 1995. Its low cost and flexibility made it an extremely popular choice for piping, especially throughout the South. To the misfortune of many, the material has since proven to be a ticking time bomb.
When exposed to chlorine and chloramine — additives commonly used to treat drinking water — polybutylene polymers begin to break down. This eventually causes pipes to fail, potentially resulting in major water damage. These findings led to a class-action lawsuit in 1996 involving over 320,000 homeowners, resulting in a settlement of more than $1.1 billion. However, some homes in the Raleigh area still have polybutylene piping. To identify PB pipes, look for a distinctive light gray color, “Quest” or “PB2110” markings and brass or gray plastic fittings.
High-Quality Professional Re-piping Services
Re-piping your home can seem intimidating, but Cape Fear Air, Electric, & Plumbing is here to help. Our friendly, knowledgeable experts can guide you through every phase of the process, beginning with a full and honest plumbing evaluation. This allows us to explore all available options and ensures that you always get the most cost-effective solutions.
When re-piping services are necessary, we work quickly and efficiently to complete the project with minimal disruption. We use cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) piping, a high-quality material that’s been rigorously tested and proven to deliver unsurpassed durability. Once your plumbing has been replaced, you can enjoy steady reliability, long-lasting peace of mind and even higher property values.
For all your repiping repair and installation needs, you can count on Cape Fear Air, Electric, & Plumbing To get started, give us a call today for a free evaluation and a clear and accurate quote.
