Old homes offer home buyers and owners charm, unique features, and more. Unfortunately, they also require replacing whole home plumbing sooner than newer homes will. If you start experiencing an increase in plumbing issues, replacing the plumbing in your home may be necessary.
Of course, this is often a repair many homeowners put off as it can be daunting – and costly. However, the damage of not replacing whole home plumbing, can be even more costly to your home.
Luckily, this guide will help you prepare. If you’re considering or planning to replace the whole home plumbing, keep reading to learn everything you need to know beforehand.
What is Whole Home Plumbing Replacement?
Whole-home plumbing replacement means just that. It describes the undertaking of replacing the pipes that connect your water supply to your home’s fixtures. The two most common reasons for replacing whole home plumbing are to replace galvanized piping or during renovations.
However, if you’re spending more and more on plumbing repairs, your plumbing service, handyman, or general contractor might recommend you consider replacing the plumbing in your home. Next, we’ll cover the things you’ll need to know if you are looking at a whole home plumbing replacement project.
10 Things to Know When Replacing Your Whole Home Plumbing
Replacing the plumbing in your entire home is a significant undertaking. Whether you’re dealing with old, corroded pipes or planning a renovation that requires a complete overhaul, understanding the ins and outs of this process is crucial.
Here are ten essential things to consider before diving into a whole-home plumbing replacement.
1. Assessment
Before committing to a full plumbing replacement, assess whether it’s truly necessary. Look for signs of extensive issues like frequent leaks, low water pressure, discolored water, or outdated materials such as lead or galvanized pipes. In some cases, partiaa partialcement or repair may be sufficient.
2. Budget, Plan & Save
A whole-home plumbing replacement can be expensive, so planning your budget is essential. Costs can vary widely based on the size of your home, the complexity of the plumbing system, and the materials used. Get multiple quotes from licensed plumbers and set aside extra funds for unexpected expenses.
3. Understand Your Plumbing System
Familiarize yourself with the basics of your current plumbing system. Knowing where your water supply lines, drainage pipes, and fixtures are located will help you understand the scope of the work required. This knowledge will also assist in communicating effectively with your plumber.
4. Research Materials
Selecting the suitable materials for your new plumbing system is crucial. Options include PEX (cross-linked polyethylene), copper, and CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride). Each material has its pros and cons regarding durability, cost, and ease of installation. Discuss these options with your plumber to determine the best choice for your home.
5. Hire a Licensed Plumber
Replacing your entire plumbing system is not a DIY project. Hiring a licensed and experienced plumber is essential to ensuring the work is done correctly and up to code. Check their credentials, read reviews, and ask for references before deciding.
6. Consider Conservation
During a plumbing overhaul, take the opportunity to incorporate water-saving features. Low-flow fixtures, water-efficient toilets, and smart irrigation systems can help reduce your water usage and lower your utility bills. These upgrades are also beneficial for the environment.
7. Prepare for Disruptions
A whole-home plumbing replacement will cause temporary disruptions to your daily routine. Prepare for a period without running water, and make arrangements for alternative water sources. Inform your family and neighbors about the project to minimize inconvenience.
8. Check for Permits
Most plumbing replacements require permits to meet local building codes and regulations. Your plumber should handle the permitting process, but it’s a good idea to double-check that all necessary permits are obtained before work begins.
9. Plan for Future Maintenance
Once your new plumbing system is installed, regular maintenance is critical to ensuring its longevity. Schedule routine inspections and proactively address minor issues before they become significant problems. Keeping an eye on your system can help you avoid costly repairs.
10. Review Warranties and Guarantees
Finally, review the warranties and guarantees offered by both your plumber and the manufacturers of the materials used. Understanding what is covered and for how long will give you peace of mind and protection in case any issues arise after installation.
What to Expect from Whole Home Plumbing
So, you’ve decided to move forward with whole home plumbing replacement. Now what? Here’s what to expect from the job to be prepared from start to finish.
- Preparing the space: As you can imagine, plumbing and pipes run throughout the entire home. So, nearly every room will be affected. It helps to prepare by moving furniture away from the walls, and covering or storing any items to prevent potential damage.
- Drywall concerns: To access the plumbing, drywall will need to be removed and replaced. Have no fear, the plumbing contract will handle the work; however, you may want to plan ahead and coordinate re-painting, too.
- Timing: The process of whole home plumbing replacement can take anywhere from 2-3 days or up to a week, depending on the system and home.
All in all, to be sure the project runs smoothly and seamlessly, it’s crucial to select a professional and reputable plumber. Be sure to collect multiple quotes, read reviews from other whole home plumbing customers, or ask for referrals from the plumbing contractor you select.
The Final Word: Replacing Plumbing
All in all, the project of replacing plumbing in your home is a daunting task. So, it helps to hire a thorough, trustworthy, and reliable plumber that offers exemplary services. If you’re in the Metro Detroit area and in need of replacing whole home plumbing – look no further than WaterWork.
WaterWork has been in business since 2006, serving customers across Metro Detroit, from Fabulous Ferndale to Ypsilanti, Eastpointe to Romeo. We’re experts at residential and commercial plumbing repairs, ongoing maintenance, and whole home plumbing replacement.
Collecting quotes for your whole home replacement project or repairs? Send us a message or schedule an appointment now for a comprehensive assessment and inspection.
