If you have copper pipes in your home, you may want to consider replacing them.
Before we get into exactly why, let’s take a quick look at the history of copper pipes.
Starting in the 1960’s, copper piping was used as a part of new home construction. By 1970, you would find copper water piping in almost all homes.
It was commonly believed that this copper material was indestructible and was your best bet for water pipes that lasted forever; however, they actually only last about 20 years.
And on top of that – they can be very hazardous to your health!
Here’s what happens: over time, water corrodes your pipes. As a result, copper leaks into tap water – creating a high toxicity level in your water. Excessive copper has been linked to Alzheimer’s Disease, diabetes, arteriosclerosis and other neurodegenerative diseases.
If that’s enough to peak your interest in possibly replacing your home’s copper pipes, keep reading!
What Can You Replace Copper Piping with?
There are three different types of piping material you can use to replace your copper piping. Each one has different benefits and different price points.
It’s important to note that the size of your home and the amount of plumbing that needs to be replaced will determine the total repiping cost. We recommend consulting a professional to get advice on which material to use.
PEX Pipe – this type of piping is called cross-linked polyethylene, aka PEX. It costs virtually half of what copper piping costs, so there’s a definite cost savings with this piping material. Our cost estimates below are based on plumbing for 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom house.
Replace copper pipe cost: $4,000 to $8,000
PVC Pipe – PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride. It’s durable, easy-to-install and low cost.
Replace copper pipe cost: $1,500 – $8,000
Plastic Pipe – tubular cylinder made of plastic.
Replace copper pipe cost: $1,500 – $8,000
Flexi-Hose – our plumbers can explain the benefit of this in more detail, but the Flexi-Hose essentially helps make critical piping connections.
“It makes a world of difference in critical piping connections. It is designed to provide a superior flexible pipe loop that will absorb and compensate multi-plane pipe movements simultaneously as well as reduce piping stress.”
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Offers Reliable, Professional Repiping Services
If your home was built any time around the 1960s, it’s a good idea to have a professional plumber examine your piping.
Our plumbing specialists have extensive experience with complete repiping services, including:
• Flexible plastic tubing (PEX)
• Rigid plastic pipes (CPVC and PVC)
Whether you have some knowledge of piping, don’t know what pipe soldering is, or have no idea where to begin when it comes to piping, not to worry! We can answer your question of how to replace copper pipe under sink or help you come up with a complete repiping strategy for your home.
Our Bay Area plumbing team knows the ins and outs of the latest plumbing codes and can recommend the best materials to ensure your home is safe and secure.
Give us a call today to speak to a plumbing specialist or make an appointment for a detailed inspection. We’re happy to help you, 24/7!
