The most trusted plumbers in Iredell County
Plumbing problems can be expensive and cause collateral damage. Sometimes, plumbing systems need to be entirely replaced. This is often especially true in homes built in the 1980s and 1990s. While the price for replacing plumbing can feel high, the cost of not replacing plumbing can be overwhelming. We want to help you work through whether you need to re-pipe or replace old and worn out plumbing systems, install new plumbing, how to budget for that process, and who you should call to help.
We have identified five key signs your plumbing pipes need to be replaced:
1) You Experience Hard Water or High Water Pressure
"Hard water" is indicative of a relatively high amount of minerals in your water. When minerals build up inside your pipes, it restricts water flow which increases water pressure. These minerals will often lead to the corrosion of plumbing joints and fittings, while the high water pressure will stress them. If this issue persists, you may have to have your home’s piping replaced.
2) You Have Lead Pipes
There is a reason we no longer use lead pipes. The lead in the piping leaches into the water and is harmful when consumed. It can cause developmental delays in children and is toxic to all people. Lead piping is not safe to have in your home. If you have them, your home will need to be re-piped as soon as possible.
3) You Have Polybutylene Pipes
The height of the popularity of polybutylene pipes in the 1990s. Unfortunately, these pipes are not as sturdy as other options and are thus prone to breaking. When pipes break, water can leak and even flood areas of your home, causing extensive damage. Like lead, this type of piping material has been discontinued. If you have polybutylene pipes, call Action Service Company to discuss repiping.
4) You Have Discolored Water
If you have discoloration in your water, it is a sign there is rust mixing into the flow. The source of the rust is likely an aging water heater tank. Tanks typically last between 10 and 15 years if they are properly maintained. Discolored water could also be a sign that your pipes are rusting and in need of replacement. Either way, you need a professional plumbing company like Action Services to help you determine how to correct your discolored water.
5) You Have Leaks
A leak may seem like it’s isolated to a single location; however, it could be your first red flag that you may have leaks elsewhere. Why? Most likely, your pipes were probably all together at the same time, so if they are beginning to deteriorate in one place, they are going to show their age throughout your home. You may already have more leaks than you realize. The ones you do not see are often worse. Undetected water damage can be costly and lead to the development of organic growth.
1) Leaking Toilets
Toilets leaking at their base could require replacement soon but should be addressed ASAP. The water around the base may not be the only moisture under the toilet. There could be leakage underneath that could cause damage to flooring, walls, and other parts of your home.
2) Leaking Appliances
If your appliances are spilling water from underneath, it could mean it is time to replace them. If your home was built around the year 2000, many of your appliances are probably nearing their expiration.
3) Water Heater Issues
If your water heater is failing to heat the water, it is quite possibly indicative of an aging unit that needs to be replaced.
If your home is fifty years old or older, it may be due for a complete re-plumbing project. You have probably been patching holes and making temporary repairs for years, but the issues will not go away. It is better to reach out to a professional plumber before you experience a catastrophic plumbing failure.
You may be one of the unlucky homeowners who discover their piping is either polybutylene or lead. If you have either, your home may need to be re-piped regardless of its age. Many homes in the Statesville area were built in the 1990s, increasing the likelihood that they were indeed plumbed with lower quality polybutylene piping.
Whether you are repiping or replacing appliances, it is a significant undertaking. Timing might be key to making the most of your replumbing project. Here is when to consider repiping or replacing plumbing systems:
Each home and situation is unique, so it is impossible to anticipate exactly what it will cost for your specific project. The best next step is to reach out to Action Services Company for more information about repiping or replacing the plumbing systems in your house. Here are some numbers to remember for a repiping project for a 2,000 square-foot home:
Essentially, repiping an entire home will range from anywhere between $2,000 to $15,000. This will depend on a number of factors including:
*We did not include the price of PEX piping as we do not recommend it.
If you are replacing appliances, here is what you can expect generally:
Rough-in plumbing for a 2,000 square-foot house will typically range from $8,000 to $12,000 dollars.
*If your water heater is in the attic, this would be a good occasion to move it to the ground level of your home. When a water heater fails in an attic, the damage can be catastrophic.
There is no doubt the number above are substantial. Furthermore, they are not specific. It is difficult to plan for your project’s cost with no more information. At the same time, you may be handy enough to consider taking on replacing your own plumbing or considering a non-licensed discount installer. We caution against taking such a risk with your precious home for several reasons, including:
If you have a plumbing replacement or installation project at your Statesville home, Action Services Company is here to help. We have decades of experience in northern Iredell County, performing plumbing projects at houses just like your own. Contact us today to find out more about how we can help ensure your repiping or replacement plumbing project goes smoothly.