Pipe Repair and Whole-House Repiping
Corroded galvanized pipes causing low pressure or rusty water? Replacing them with PEX or copper is the lasting fix. Here is what repiping involves and what it typically costs.
Signs Your Pipes Need Replacement
Don't put off repiping if you're seeing these warning signs.
Rust-Colored Water
Brown or orange water from taps, especially on first use
Multiple Pinhole Leaks
Small leaks appearing in different locations over time
Dropping Water Pressure
Weak water flow throughout the house or at specific fixtures
Visible Corrosion
Green or white crusty buildup on copper or metal pipes
What Type of Pipes Do You Have?
Galvanized Steel
Era: 1920s-1960s
Status: Often corroded by now
Common issues: Corrosion, low pressure, rust water, pinhole leaks
Polybutylene
Era: 1978-1995
Status: Prone to failure
Common issues: Brittle, ruptures, class action history
Copper
Era: 1960s-present
Status: Aging in hard water
Common issues: Pinhole leaks, depending on water chemistry
CPVC
Era: 1980s-present
Status: Aging
Common issues: UV sensitivity, joint leaks possible
Copper vs PEX: Which Should You Choose?
Copper
Pros:
- • Long track record in homes
- • Rigid metal pipe, joined with soldered or press fittings
Cons:
- • Typically costs more than PEX for material and labor
- • Can develop pinhole leaks, depending on water chemistry
- • Takes longer to install than PEX
PEX
Pros:
- • Usually costs less to install than copper
- • Resists scale buildup from hard water
- • Flexible, faster installation
- • Freeze resistant
Cons:
- • UV sensitive if exposed outdoors
PEX usually costs less to install than copper and resists the scale and corrosion that hard water causes. Either material can last decades when installed correctly.
Before You Hire a Repiping Contractor
Check the License
Repiping should be done by a licensed plumbing contractor. Check it at cslb.ca.gov and ask for proof of insurance.
Get the Schedule in Writing
Ask how many days the job will take and how water service will be handled while the work is done.
Ask About the Warranty
Ask what the labor warranty covers and for how long, and get it in writing. Pipe makers' warranties are separate.
What Does Repiping Cost?
Typical price ranges for repiping in Los Angeles County and Orange County. Actual cost depends on scope, access, and the condition of your existing plumbing.
| Type of work | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Spot Repair (Single Section)Repair or replace a single damaged pipe section (1-3 feet) | $200 to $600 |
| Partial RepipeReplace supply lines to one bathroom or kitchen (copper or PEX) | $1,500 to $4,000 |
| Whole-House Repipe (2 Bath)Complete replacement of all supply lines in a standard 2-bathroom home | $4,000 to $8,000 |
| Whole-House Repipe (3+ Bath)Complete replacement of all supply lines in a larger 3+ bathroom home | $7,000 to $15,000 |
After hours. Burst pipe emergencies are emergency-rate; scheduled repiping is standard rate
Permits. Repiping requires a plumbing permit and inspection in all LA and OC cities
Repiping costs depend on home size, number of fixtures, pipe material (copper vs PEX), wall access, and whether drywall patching is included.
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