The Homeowner’s Guide to Pipe Repair and Repiping

When water starts to trickle instead of flow, or when hidden leaks leave stains and strange smells, panic can set in fast. As a homeowner, you shouldn’t have to worry about what’s happening behind the walls every time you rinse a dish or flush a toilet.

At Spicewood Plumbing, we understand the stress that comes with finding a plumbing problem—especially when you need emergency plumbing services, fast. Our licensed, background-checked crews have seen it all. We’re here to break down the pipe repair and repiping process so you can make confident decisions and keep your home safe.

Why Pipe Problems Matter

A burst pipe can turn your basement into an indoor swimming pool overnight. Even small leaks, left alone, can rot your walls or floors like a slow-growing fungus. The stakes? Water damage, high bills, and mold you can’t see until it’s too late.

Pipes are the arteries of your home. They carry fresh water in and waste water out. When they fail, everything else stops. If you’re noticing water pressure drops, rusty water, or damp spots, it’s time to pay attention.

Quick Safety Checklist 🛑

Before you tackle any plumbing problem—or even call a pro—run through this checklist:

• Shut off your main water valve. Know where it is before you need it.
• Turn off electricity to affected areas if there’s standing water.
• Keep kids and pets away from leaks and puddles.
• Look out for mold or mildew, which can be a health hazard.
• Check for gas smells. If you suspect a gas leak, leave immediately and call your utility provider.

For gas or electrical issues, always refer to guidelines from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and local building codes.

DIY Fixes vs. When to Call a Pro

Some minor plumbing issues are like a loose button on your shirt—easy to handle with a little know-how. Others are more like a split seam that needs a tailor’s touch.

DIY-Friendly:

• Tightening a loose fitting under the sink.
• Using a plunger to unclog a toilet.
• Replacing a faucet washer.

Call a Pro When:

• You see water stains or bulging walls.
• Pipes are visibly corroded or leaking.
• Water pressure drops dramatically.
• There’s more than one leak, or you suspect hidden damage.
• You need drain cleaning near you for recurring clogs.

Attempting a complex fix without experience can lead to bigger headaches—and bigger bills down the line. Emergency plumbing services exist for a reason.

How Pros Tackle Pipe Repair

When our Spicewood Plumbing teams arrive, we don’t just throw a wrench at the problem. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Inspection and Leak Detection

Using moisture meters, infrared cameras, and sometimes just a sharp eye, we pinpoint the exact source of the trouble—whether it’s a pinhole leak or a cracked joint.

2. Deciding on the Repair Approach

We look at factors like:

• Pipe material (copper, PEX, PVC, galvanized steel)
• Age and visible wear
• The number and location of leaks

Common Repair Methods:

• Spot Fix: For tiny leaks, we might patch or seal the area.
• Clamp Repair: A quick fix using a metal clamp and rubber gasket to stop leaks in their tracks.
• Section Replacement: We cut out the damaged piece and install a fresh section.

If pipes are corroded throughout, or if leaks keep coming back, it’s time to talk about repiping.

When Do You Need Full Repiping?

Imagine patching holes in a garden hose that’s more duct tape than rubber. At some point, replacement is the only option.

You might need repiping if:

• Your home is over 50 years old and still has original pipes.
• You’re dealing with frequent leaks or bursts.
• Water tastes metallic or looks rusty.
• You have low water pressure throughout the house.
• Pipes are made from outdated materials like lead or polybutylene.

Repiping isn’t just about fixing what’s broken. It’s about future-proofing your plumbing and protecting your investment.

Pipe Materials: Pros, Cons, and Lifespan

Choosing the right pipe is like picking the best shoes for a long hike. Comfort, durability, and the terrain (your home) all matter.

Copper

• Lifespan: 50–70 years
• Pros: Durable, resists bacteria, handles high heat.
• Cons: More expensive, can corrode if water is acidic.

PEX (Cross-linked Polyethylene)

• Lifespan: 40–50 years
• Pros: Flexible, easy to install, resists freezing.
• Cons: Sensitive to UV light, not for outdoor use.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

• Lifespan: 25–40 years
• Pros: Affordable, resists rust and corrosion.
• Cons: Not suitable for hot water lines, can crack under extreme cold.

Galvanized Steel (Outdated)

• Lifespan: 20–50 years (often less)
• Cons: Rusts from the inside, causes discolored water, prone to clogs.

Pro Tip: Always check with local plumbing codes (see International Residential Code, IRC) before choosing materials. Some areas restrict certain types.

Step-by-Step: The Repiping Process

Repiping a home is a big project, but with a prepared crew, it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Here’s how it usually goes:

1. Assessment & Planning

We map out your existing plumbing, mark walls and floors to access pipes, and plan the least disruptive route.

2. Prep Work

Furniture is covered. Floors are protected. Access holes are cut—just big enough to reach pipes, not a wall-to-wall demolition.

3. Old Pipe Removal

The old pipes come out in sections. We take care to avoid damaging wiring or other systems.

4. Installing New Pipes

New pipes are snaked through the walls and floors. Joints are sealed, connections tested, and everything is built to code.

5. Restoration

Walls and floors are patched up. Paint and finishing are matched as closely as possible.

6. Final Inspection

A licensed plumber tests every fixture for leaks and water pressure. Some homes require a municipal inspector’s sign-off.

Disruption: Expect water to be off for 1–2 days in most homes; larger or older homes may take longer. You can usually stay in your house, but plan for some dust and noise.

The Cost Factor: What to Expect

Plumbing costs can be as varied as car repairs. The price depends on:

• Size of your home and number of bathrooms
• Type of pipe material (copper costs more than PEX or PVC)
• Accessibility (finished basements and tight spaces take longer)
• Local labor rates

Typical ranges:

• Spot repairs: Several hundred dollars
• Section replacements: Hundreds to a few thousand
• Full repiping: Several thousand to tens of thousands

Insurance may cover sudden, accidental water damage, but not wear-and-tear or old pipes. Check your policy.

Emergency Plumbing Situations 🚨

Some plumbing problems can’t wait. Call for emergency plumbing help if:

• Water is gushing uncontrollably
• Sewer backups (smelly, messy, and a health risk)
• No water to the house at all
• Gas line leaks (smell of rotten eggs)

Our team responds around the clock. We’re always just a call away.

Pipe Maintenance Tips to Make Pipes Last

A little care goes a long way, much like changing your car’s oil. Here’s how to keep your plumbing healthy:

• Fix small leaks right away. Don’t wait for them to get worse.
• Avoid chemical drain cleaners. They can eat pipes from the inside out.
• Insulate pipes before winter to prevent freezing.
• Schedule regular drain cleaning near you.
• Test water pressure. Excessive pressure strains joints and fixtures.
• Install water filtration if your area has hard or corrosive water.
• Have backflow tested annually if you use irrigation or a sump pump.

We follow standards set by the Uniform Plumbing Code and local health departments for all preventative work.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my pipes need repiping?

If you have frequent leaks, discolored water, or low water pressure throughout your home, it’s time for a professional inspection. Homes over 50 years old with original pipes are prime candidates.

How long does repiping take?

Most homes are completed in 2–5 days, depending on size and complexity. Water is typically shut off for just 1–2 days.

Will my walls be destroyed?

Not at all. We cut small, targeted access points and restore them after the job. You might have some touch-up painting, but it won’t look like a construction zone.

Is PEX better than copper?

Each has pros and cons. PEX is flexible and affordable, while copper is durable and bacteriostatic. Your home’s layout, water quality, and budget will help determine the best fit.

Local and Seasonal Plumbing Considerations

In colder months, pipes are more likely to freeze and burst—especially in older homes or unheated basements. Insulate exposed lines before the first frost. During heavy rains, sewer lines and sump pumps work overtime; schedule maintenance ahead of storm season.

For Texas and similar climates, hard water is a common culprit for pipe corrosion. Water filtration systems and periodic inspection help keep pipes clean and clear.

If you’re facing leaks, low pressure, or worried about aging pipes, don’t wait for a flood. Call Spicewood Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at  877-834-5933 .