When repiping makes sense
- Leaks in more than one place over a short period
- Polybutylene supply lines, a material known for failing as it ages
- Galvanized steel lines that rust from the inside, causing low pressure and brown water
- A slab leak, where rerouting the line overhead avoids breaking up the floor
- A remodel that's opening up walls anyway
Older pipe in Pahrump homes
Pahrump grew quickly from the late 1980s on. Homes built in the earlier part of that boom, both site-built and manufactured, sometimes still have polybutylene supply lines. Elsewhere you may find galvanized pipe, especially in older sections or additions. Hard water speeds up corrosion and scale inside metal lines, so a galvanized system that looks fine from the outside may be badly restricted inside.
Whole-house vs. partial repiping
Partial
Replace the worst run, such as a failed slab line rerouted overhead, or one bathroom's supply lines. It costs less up front, but the remaining old pipe is still in service.
Whole-house
All supply lines from the main to each fixture are replaced at once, usually with new shutoff valves. It's a bigger project, but it deals with the whole system in one go.
What the process usually looks like
- Assessment. The plumber identifies pipe materials, the layout and any problem areas, then quotes the work.
- Permit and scheduling, where required.
- Install. New lines run to each fixture, the old lines are capped or removed, and new valves go in.
- Pressure test and inspection.
- Patching. Wall openings are closed up, by the plumber or a separate drywall contractor depending on the quote.
Repiping FAQ
How do I know if I have polybutylene pipe?
Polybutylene is a flexible plastic supply pipe, usually gray (sometimes blue or black), often stamped "PB2110". It was widely installed from roughly the late 1970s to the mid-1990s. Look where the line enters the water heater or at the shutoff valves under sinks. A plumber can confirm.
PEX or copper?
Both are used for repiping. PEX is flexible, needs fewer fittings, and is usually quicker to install through finished walls. Copper is rigid and long-proven. The plumber can explain how each would work in your home and price both if you ask.
How disruptive is a repipe?
Plumbers typically run new lines through the attic and walls, making small openings to reach fixtures, then patch them afterward. Water is usually off for part of each work day. Ask the plumber for a schedule and whether drywall patching is included in the quote.
Does a repipe need a permit?
Repiping usually needs a plumbing permit and an inspection. Your plumber should know the requirements for your address. Ask who pulls the permit.