What to Expect During a Full Home Repiping Project
Imagine the heart of your home—its plumbing—working flawlessly behind walls and under floors. No leaks, no rusty water, no surprise cold showers. But what happens when those pipes age out or fail? You need a full repiping. It’s a big project, but it doesn’t have to be a big headache.
At Aark Plumbing, our team understands this is more than just a job. It’s your home, your business, your comfort. We’re here to walk you through what to expect, every step of the way.
Why Repiping Is Needed 🏚️
Plumbing pipes don’t last forever. Over time, they corrode, clog, or break down, just like the roots of a tree pushing through old concrete. These are the signs:
- Persistent leaks, despite repeated repairs
- Rusty or discolored water
- Low water pressure throughout the building
- Frequent pipe bursts or water damage
- Odd-tasting water
For both residential and commercial properties, old pipes are more than an inconvenience—they’re a risk to your health and property. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and local building codes recommend replacing old lead, polybutylene, and galvanized steel pipes to meet today’s safety standards. If you’ve had emergency plumbing issues more than once, repiping may be the smartest solution.
Planning and Materials
A successful repiping project starts with careful planning. Think of it as mapping a new route through a city—every turn matters.
What Happens First
- Initial Inspection: Our licensed plumbers assess your current system, checking for code compliance and hidden damage.
- Material Selection: We review options like copper, PEX, or CPVC. Each has its pros and cons, so we’ll talk through what’s best for your needs, budget, and building type.
- Permitting: Most cities require permits for full repipes. We handle this, following the latest Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) and local regulations.
- Scheduling: We work with your calendar, making sure you know when water will be off and how the project will affect your daily routines.
Pipe Installation Near You
Not all homes are the same. A newer home might need fewer wall cuts. Older buildings may require more creative solutions. We adapt our plan to your space, minimizing disruption.
How Long It Takes
Repiping isn’t a weekend fix. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
- Standard Homes (1–2 baths): Usually 2–5 days
- Larger Homes/Buildings: Up to a week or more
- Commercial Spaces: Timeline varies with complexity and size
Factors that affect timing:
- Building size and layout
- Type of pipes being replaced and installed
- Access to existing piping (behind drywall, under slab, etc.)
- Local inspection schedules
We’ll always communicate the timeline up front. Our customers say things like, “I was surprised how quickly everything came together, and the crew explained each step,” or “They finished on time, and left the place spotless.”
What to Expect Each Day
Here’s how a typical repiping project unfolds:
Day 1: Prep and Protection
- Cover floors, furniture, and valuables
- Shut off water (sometimes only briefly)
- Mark walls and ceilings for access points
Day 2–3: Pipe Removal & Installation
- Carefully open small sections of drywall or ceiling
- Remove old pipes and fittings
- Install new piping runs, securing them to code
Day 4: Connections and Pressure Testing
- Connect fixtures (sinks, toilets, showers)
- Test for leaks and water pressure issues
- Make adjustments if needed
Final Day: Restoration and Cleanup
- Patch drywall and repair surfaces
- Clean up dust and debris
- Walk-through with you, double-checking every detail
Our team is known for respecting your space. One commercial client shared, “They cleaned up better than any contractor I’ve had—didn’t find a single scrap left behind.”
Restoring Your Home
No one wants to live in a construction zone. Our goal: leave your home or business as clean as we found it—or cleaner.
- All access holes are patched and sanded
- Paint touch-ups match your existing walls
- Floors are swept, mopped, and vacuumed
We recommend waiting a day or two before repainting, just to allow everything to settle. If you have custom finishes or historic trim, let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly.
Quick Safety Checklist
Before work begins, keep these safety tips in mind:
- Store valuables and breakables away from work areas
- Keep pets and children out of the path of workers
- Notify your building manager (for commercial projects)
- Ask about water shut-off times so you can plan ahead
- Check your home for working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors—just in case
For more on plumbing safety, see recommendations from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and your local building department.
DIY vs. Call a Pro
Maybe you’ve replaced a faucet or fixed a leak before. But repiping is a different animal. It’s like trying to rewire a car’s engine instead of changing the oil.
DIY Risks
- Hidden code violations
- Leaks behind walls that go unnoticed until major damage occurs
- Voided home insurance or warranties
Why Most People Call a Pro
- Licensed plumbers know local codes and inspection requirements
- Access to professional tools and materials
- Proven process for minimizing disruption and damage
- Emergency plumbing support if something unexpected happens
If you’re considering a “Pipe Installation near you,” make sure you choose a team with experience in full repiping—not just patch repairs.
What Pros Do On Arrival
Expect a small crew, not an army. Here’s what happens first:
- Review your home’s layout and project plan
- Protect floors, stairs, and entryways
- Set up tools and safety equipment
- Communicate the day’s goals and timing
Throughout the project, you’ll see steady progress. Our crew members are always happy to answer questions and explain what’s happening—no surprises.
Prevention & Maintenance
Once your new pipes are in, you’ll want them to last. Here’s how:
- Schedule regular preventative maintenance (annual inspections, water heater checks, leak detection)
- Avoid harsh drain chemicals, which can corrode new pipes
- Install water filtration systems to protect plumbing from hard water or contaminants
- Keep an eye out for drips, stains, or changes in water pressure
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) recommends annual plumbing inspections, especially after major work.
Costs & Time Factors
Repiping is an investment in your property’s health and safety. Costs vary, depending on:
- Size and age of the building
- Number of fixtures (sinks, toilets, appliances)
- Type of piping material (PEX, copper, CPVC)
- Accessibility (finished basements, crawl spaces, multiple stories)
- Local permit and inspection fees
We provide clear estimates before work begins—no guesswork.
When It’s an Emergency
Sometimes, you can’t wait. Burst pipes, major leaks, or sewage backups demand immediate action. If you need emergency plumbing, turn off the main water supply and call us right away. Fast response limits damage and keeps your family or business safe.
FAQ
How do I know if I need a full repipe?
If you’ve experienced repeated leaks, rusty water, or ongoing water pressure issues, it’s time to consider a full repipe. Our plumbers can inspect and advise on the best next step.
Will I have water during the project?
You may be without water for short periods, but we do our best to schedule work so you’re never left high and dry for long.
How messy is repiping?
We keep dust and debris to a minimum with protective coverings and daily cleanup. Most customers are surprised by how tidy the process is.
Is repiping covered by insurance?
It depends on your policy and the reason for replacement. We recommend checking with your insurance provider before starting any large project.
Local/Seasonal Considerations 🌦️
Climate and building age matter. In older neighborhoods, pipes may be more likely to freeze and burst during winter. In newer developments, water quality or soil conditions can affect pipe life. For commercial spaces, local health and safety codes may require upgrades or regular backflow testing.
Before starting, Aark Plumbing reviews any seasonal risks and local codes that affect your project. Our experience with both residential and commercial properties means we’re always ready for the unexpected.
A full home repiping project is a big step—but when it’s done right, you’ll enjoy peace of mind for years. Get ready with a team that communicates, cares, and gets the job done right.
Call Aark Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at 888-403-1101 .