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What is Copper Repiping?

KN
KN

Copper repiping is a process of refitting existing pipes in a dwelling or business. Most structures built 25 or more years ago were fitted with iron pipes coated with zinc, normally called galvanized pipes. As the galvanized pipes age, the zinc lining tends to erode allowing rust to form. Once galvanized pipes begin to deteriorate, they need to be replaced. Most people prefer to replace galvanized pipes with copper pipes, in a process referred to as copper repiping.

A water system is composed of two measurable parts: pressure and volume. The pressure is measured as pounds per square inch (p.s.i.). Water pressure represents the force with which the water passes through the pipes and out of your faucets. Water volume represents the amount of water that can flow through your pipes and out through the faucets in a given period of time.

Copper repiping may be needed if tap water no longer runs clear or has developed an odor.
Copper repiping may be needed if tap water no longer runs clear or has developed an odor.

Homeowners usually decide to initiate copper repiping when they begin to see a dramatic drop in water pressure. Decreased water pressure is often very annoying; washing machines fill up more slowly, and garden hoses have a much weaker spray. Perhaps the most evident result of low water pressure is in the shower - instead of a forceful stream, the bather only experiences a dissatisfying trickle of water.

Copper repiping involves replacing galvanized pipes with new copper pipes.
Copper repiping involves replacing galvanized pipes with new copper pipes.

Other ways you know it is time for copper repiping is when the tap water appears discolored due to rust, when a foul odor comes from the tap, or when pipes begin to leak. Plumbers can come into the home and test to see if the problems are being caused by eroding pipes, and make recommendations whether it is time for copper repiping.

Copper is the preferred material for interior pipes because it is lightweight, safe and durable, and does not rust. Because it is also flexible, meaning that plumbers can easily bend and form it within existing walls, it is ideal for repiping.

Copper repiping is a major, time-consuming undertaking in home repairs; it's not a project for a typical do-it-yourselfer. Professional plumbers with a fair extent of plumbing experience are best suited to take on this type of replacement.

Discussion Comments

anon324822

I had the same question but absolutely hate talking on the phone, especially because once they hear my accent I think they think I have no idea what to listen for. You could always reach out to a repiping company's contact form. They are usually very helpful. We repiped through ace duraflo and we heard back quickly but a quick search of companies in your area and a contact form filled out and I am sure you'll have success. Good luck!

musicmom

what questions should I ask when I get a re-pipe quote? Should the contractor specify the gauge or size of the copper pipe he is using? What are the differences?

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    • Copper repiping may be needed if tap water no longer runs clear or has developed an odor.
      By: silberkorn73
      Copper repiping may be needed if tap water no longer runs clear or has developed an odor.
    • Copper repiping involves replacing galvanized pipes with new copper pipes.
      By: Nomad_Soul
      Copper repiping involves replacing galvanized pipes with new copper pipes.
    • Copper pipes are usually preferred over galvanized iron pipes for home plumbing.
      By: kotomiti
      Copper pipes are usually preferred over galvanized iron pipes for home plumbing.
    • Copper pipes are the preferred material for domestic water distribution systems.
      By: Sergejs Katkovskis
      Copper pipes are the preferred material for domestic water distribution systems.