Do you live in an older home that still has galvanized steel or polybutylene pipes in place? Don’t endanger yourself and your family. Get your pipes replaced with more reliable material by calling your Colonial Heights repiping specialists at Colonial Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc. We carry out whole house repiping services for properties experiencing severe pipe corrosion, as well as those that have dangerous materials in place from the past.
What are signs you need to call for repiping services?
Water pipes and corresponding connections are designed to last for decades; however, they will eventually degrade and require replacement by a plumbing professional. We can help you complete a whole house repipe quickly and efficiently.
There are several signs that point out the need for new pipes:
- Persistent water leaks that damage walls and floors
- Metallic sediment in your water supply
- Foul smelling or yellow water (indicates pipe corrosion)
- Poor water pressure
While these problems require professional inspection, not all of them call for complete repiping services. If you are experiencing significant problems with your drains or sewer line, contact us to look at the problem and we will determine if a whole house repipe is the right solution.
Read our reviews to see why we have been your preferred Colonial Heights plumbers since 1982.
Why are polybutylene and galvanized steel pipes dangerous?
From the late 1970s until the 1990s, many homes were built with polybutylene piping because the plumbing materials cost less than copper pipes. Construction companies were eager to save money by installing these poorly made plastic resin pipes in as many as 10 million buildings in different regions across the country. Unfortunately, little testing was completed before this variety of pipe was approved, leading to disastrous results. Water today is treated with chemicals such as chlorine to destroy bacteria that causes illness. Chlorine causes polybutylene pipes to become brittle, which leads to pieces of the pipe to flake off and contaminate your water supply.
Galvanized steel pipes were also popular materials that eventually proved to fail over time. This material is lined with a zinc coating that degrades, leading to debris in water that can cause health problems. If you are planning to sell your home, you will need to replace the galvanized steel pipes, as this vulnerable material places the home at risk.
What are the benefits of copper and PEX pipes?
Copper
Copper pipes are the preferred plumbing material for most properties because it is long lasting and fast to install with welding equipment. There are several varieties of copper tubing, including rigid and flexible types that are available in an assortment of sizes. Our technicians can heat copper pipes or fittings to bend them so they can easily fit into certain spaces without damaging the devices.
Despite being a pliable metal, copper is resistant to corrosion from water and chemicals, making it an excellent choice for customers who are looking for reliable plumbing materials. Copper pipes are also widely available, allowing us to find the correct sizes needed to make repairs or replacements in any type of structure.
PEX
If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider PEX piping. Made in several diameters, lengths, and colors, these pipes are designed to withstand a wide range of temperature changes to prevent degradation and bursting in the winter. Approximately 40 percent of residential customers today opt for PEX materials for repiping due to the lower cost of the materials. Studies show that PEX pipes do not degrade from the chemicals in water the way galvanized steel or polybutylene pipes do.
The pipe material we install will depend on your home’s condition and your personal preference. We will discuss the options with you before starting on any repiping work.
