Copper Repiping Whittier
Copper repiping is the complete replacement of a home’s piping system with new pipes made of copper. Copper repiping is a complex process that usually requires a professional plumbing or copper re-pipe company. Pipes must be soldered and welded to fit or bypass the existing plumbing system. A copper re-pipe is a significant home improvement that will yield long-lasting benefits.
Benefits of A Copper Re-Pipe
When you re-pipe your home’s plumbing system with copper pipes, you’ll solve problems you never even knew you had. Here are just some of the benefits you and your family will reap for years and years to come:
Better Water Pressure
Rusty pipes restrict water flow, which results in low water pressure. If you suffer from corroded pipes, you may notice water pressure problems when you’re attempting to use more than one water source at a time (taking a shower while the laundry’s in the washer, for instance). With a copper re-pipe, you’ll be able to multitask without losing your ideal water pressure!
Cleaner Water
Clean water is a basic human necessity. Most people take it for granted that when they turn on their faucet, clean water will flow. This isn’t the case with rusty galvanized pipes, though! After a residential copper re-pipe, you’ll have cleaner, healthier, better tasting water for your family to enjoy.
Increased Home Value
A residential re-pipe is a significant investment in your home’s overall value. Future buyers are willing to pay more for homes with modern piping such as copper. On the other hand, rusty, galvanized pipes are red flags for homebuyers.
Copper Piping Vs. PEX Piping
When you need a residential re-piping, you may find yourself deciding between PEX and copper pipes. While PEX piping is less expensive and easier to install, copper is more durable and resistant to bacteria growth. There are other notable differences as well, including the fact that copper can be used outdoors due to its resistance to ultraviolet light. PEX piping may be less prone to bursting in very cold temperatures, though.
Both copper piping and PEX piping are viable options for your residential or commercial re-pipe. It’s best to do your homework, though, and talk to a professional re-piping contractor for information about what’s best for your individual needs.
Signs You Need a Copper Re-Pipe
Most older homes were piped using galvanized piping. Unfortunately, this type of pipe can deteriorate over time and cause problems for your home’s overall plumbing system.
How Does Galvanized Piping Deteriorate?
Galvanized iron pipes are coated with zinc to protect against rust. Unfortunately, this zinc coating wears away over time, and pipes eventually begin to rust. As the rust builds up inside the pipes, it causes plumbing issues throughout the home. These issues may include:
- Low water pressure
- Dirty, rust-colored water
- Rust spots on toilets, sinks, and laundered clothing
- Sudden changes in water temperature
- Foul-smelling water
- Bad-tasting water
Problems With Old Pipes
If you don’t heed the warning signs that you need a residential re-pipe, then your problems will inevitably compound. As pipes rust and deteriorate, they not only cause annoyances such as discolored water and low water pressure, they also begin to leak. This is when the real issues begin.
Costly Pipe Leaks
Rusty or corroded pipes will eventually leak. Sometimes, these leaks can go undetected, especially when they happen inside the walls of your home, in the attic, or underneath the house. Hidden leaks are the worst kinds of leaks, since they can cause severe water damage to your house before you’re even aware of the problem.
Contaminated Water
Another major concern with rusty pipes is contaminated water. As the zinc coating starts to corrode and the rust builds, these materials begin to flow through the pipes and into your drinking water. Of course, this not only affects the smell and taste of your tap water, but it can also have innumerable health risks. If your water has an odor or tastes like metal, then it’s likely contaminated.