Tag Archives: repiping your home

Nov '23

Five Plumbing Improvements to Increase the Value of Your Home

Your home’s plumbing is usually not the first thing that comes to your mind when you’re thinking of ways to improve your property’s value. Most homeowners don’t even see a connection between their home’s plumbing and its market value.

That is why, when planning for upgrades, such homeowners often focus on trendy updates that aim to quickly grab buyers’ attention. But savvy homeowners don’t do this; they know something that most less-experienced homeowners don’t understand.

They know that the quality of their home’s major systems has a bigger impact on its value than any cosmetic changes they can make to the building. Smart homeowners realize that, in the end, buyers base their buying decisions on the ordinary features of the home, like the plumbing.

That is why, before putting money into improving the home’s aesthetics, these smart owners invest in the building’s major systems. Mark Brower Properties explains that due to its impact on the structural integrity of their home, the plumbing system is one of these homeowners’ main focuses.

That is a strategy you want to adopt when planning to renovate your home. Focusing on your home’s plumbing and other major systems of the house can help to ensure that you get maximum returns on any money you spend on cosmetic improvements.

What plumbing improvements can you make to your home to improve its value today? The five plumbing improvements explained below are good places to start.

Plumbing upgrades to improve your home’s value

Whole-house repipe

If the pipes in your home are close to their replacement date or you have been experiencing a spate of pipe issues, nothing will add more value to your home than doing a whole-house repipe. Problems like frequent blockages, burst pipes, low water pressure and poor water quality are often caused by aging pipes. They cost a lot of money to fix and exert a huge toll on your building’s structure. Repiping your home will make it more attractive to buyers because they won’t have to worry about the home’s plumbing maintenance costs. When doing this project, ensure that you upgrade to superior pipe materials like PVC, copper or PEX piping.

Eco-friendly upgrades

Eco-friendly plumbing upgrades help to cut your home’s energy costs. Every buyer wants a house that is not costly to maintain. Environmentally-conscious buyers in particular, go out of their way to look for features that will help to reduce their home’s environmental footprint. Since these buyers are often well-educated and affluent, eco-friendly plumbing features will make your home attractive to the upper echelons of the market. Some eco-friendly plumbing upgrades to consider include efficient washers, dishwashers, toilets or water heaters and faucets.

Replace worn-out plumbing fixtures

Old, worn-out fixtures diminish your home’s comfort through their negative impact on plumbing efficiency. Outdated plumbing fixtures will also impair the aesthetics of your home. Your old faucets and showerheads can cause problems like low water pressure. If you are planning to repipe your home, it makes a lot of sense to also replace your fixtures. The old fixtures will not perform to the level of your new piping. Furthermore, the style of those old fixtures will probably clash with the new ambience you are creating in the home. Examples of plumbing fixtures that you may want to replace include faucets, water heaters, and showerheads.

Insulating your pipes

Another great option for upgrading your home’s plumbing is to insulate your water pipes. A good portion of your home’s energy costs are incurred via energy losses from exposed hot water pipes. Exposed water pipes are also likely to freeze and burst during winter. Insulating these pipes not only improves the resilience of your plumbing, it can result in significant cuts to your energy spending. There are many ways to insulate the water pipes in your. Regardless of the method you choose, this upgrade will make your home more valuable and a lot more attractive to buyers.

Add a tankless water heater

A conventional water heater can easily aggravate your home maintenance woes. Because they store heated water and have to reheat that water several times a day, tank water heaters use up a lot of energy. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, do not have this problem. Because they provide hot water on demand, tankless water heaters are more efficient and can help to cut your home’s energy and maintenance costs. You never have to worry about not having enough hot water when you upgrade to tankless water heaters.

Which of these plumbing upgrades should you start with? That depends on how much you have and how bad the plumbing in your home is. If you plan on repiping the entire house, you can make the cost more manageable by doing the project in phases. Also, talk to an experienced plumber; they can give you insights that will help you make the most of every dollar.

Aug '23

How to Improve Your Water Quality By Repiping Your Home

Having clean and safe water is crucial for the health and well-being of your family. Over time, older pipes in your home can corrode, leading to water quality issues and potential health risks. Repiping your home can be an effective solution to improve the water quality throughout your house. This article will guide you through the process of repiping your home to enhance your water quality and ensure a healthier living environment.

Understanding the Importance of Water Quality

Before diving into the repiping process, it is essential to understand the significance of water quality. Poor water quality can be harmful to your health, causing issues such as gastrointestinal problems, respiratory infections, and skin irritations. Additionally, contaminated water can damage household appliances and plumbing fixtures, leading to costly repairs or replacements.

By repiping your home, you can eliminate the risks associated with aging and corroded pipes, ensuring the delivery of clean, fresh water to every faucet.

Signs that Repiping is Needed

Recognizing when it’s time to repipe your home is crucial to prevent any further water quality deterioration. Look out for the following signs:

Low water pressure: If you notice a significant drop in water pressure, it may indicate corroded pipes that restrict water flow.

Frequent leaks: Aging pipes are more prone to leaks. If you find yourself dealing with frequent leaks, it may be time to consider repiping.

Discolored water: Rusty or discolored water coming from your taps is a sign of corroded pipes that require replacement.

Foul odor or strange taste: Unpleasant odors or tastes are indicators of impurities in your water supply.

Hiring a Professional Plumber

Repiping your home is a complex task that requires the expertise of a professional plumber. When selecting a plumber, consider their experience, qualifications, and reputation. It’s also important to verify if they are licensed, insured, and offer warranties for their work. A reliable plumber near you will assess your home’s plumbing system, determine the extent of repiping needed, and provide you with an accurate cost estimate.

Choosing the Right Pipes

Selecting the appropriate pipes for your repiping project is vital for ensuring better water quality and longevity. Two popular options are:

1. Copper Pipes: Copper pipes are known for their durability, resistance to corrosion, and ability to maintain water quality. While they may be more expensive upfront, they are considered a long-term investment due to their lifespan of 50+ years.

2. PEX Pipes: Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipes are a flexible and cost-effective option. They are resistant to corrosion and offer better insulation, reducing the risks of temperature-related issues.

The Repiping Process

The repiping process involves careful planning and execution. Here are the key steps involved:

Assessment: A professional plumber will inspect your existing plumbing system to determine the extent of repiping required. This helps in creating a detailed plan for the project.

Preparation: This involves clearing the work area, shutting off the water supply, and ensuring the safety of your belongings.

Demolition: Removal of the old pipes is conducted, taking care to minimize any damage to the surrounding infrastructure.

Installation: The new pipes are carefully installed, following the pre-defined plan. This stage requires expertise to ensure proper connections and functionality.

Finishing touches: Once the new pipes are in place, the plumber will perform pressure tests to identify any potential leaks. They will also reconnect fixtures, appliances, and ensure proper functioning.

Benefits of Repiping

Repiping your home offers numerous benefits, including:

Improved water quality: Eliminating corroded pipes ensures cleaner and healthier water for drinking, cooking, and bathing.

Enhanced water pressure: Repiping allows for optimal water flow, resulting in increased water pressure throughout your home.

Prevention of costly repairs: Investing in repiping eliminates the need for frequent repairs caused by leaks or pipe bursts, saving you money in the long run.

Increased property value: Upgrading your plumbing system by repiping can increase the value of your home.

Maintaining Water Quality After Repiping

While repiping greatly improves your water quality, it’s essential to follow these maintenance tips to ensure long-lasting results:

Regular inspections: Schedule periodic inspections to detect any potential issues early.

Water filter installation: Install a water filtration system to remove impurities and further enhance water quality.

Prevent chemical damage: Avoid pouring harsh chemicals down your drains, as they can damage the pipes and affect water quality.

Monitor water temperature: Extremely hot water can deteriorate pipes over time. Adjust your water heater temperature to reduce strain on the pipes.

Conclusion

Improving your water quality by repiping your home is a significant investment that guarantees better health, increased property value, and peace of mind. By understanding the signs indicating the need for repiping, hiring a residential plumber, selecting the right pipes, and following proper maintenance practices, you can achieve long-lasting and reliable water quality throughout your home.

Jun '23

Upgrading Older Homes: Why Repiping is a Sound Investment

Owning an older home is a dream come true for many homeowners. There is a certain charm and character that comes with old houses that make them stand out from the rest. However, these homes come with their fair share of challenges.

One significant challenge is the outdated plumbing system that can become problematic with time. This is where repiping comes in.

Repiping an older home is not only a necessary investment, but it also offers several benefits that make it a sound investment. This article will provide an in-depth look at upgrading older homes and why repiping is a good investment.

The Importance of Upgrading Older Homes

Older homes come with outdated and worn-out systems that can become a significant inconvenience for the homeowner. These systems may include the electrical, HVAC, and plumbing systems.

Upgrading these systems is essential, not only to enhance the functionality of the house but also to improve the living conditions of the inhabitants.

One of the most critical systems that need upgrading in an older home is the plumbing system. The plumbing system is responsible for delivering clean water for drinking and domestic use while also removing waste water.

An old and outdated plumbing system can lead to several problems, such as leaks, low water pressure, or even contamination of the water supply.

The Benefits of Repiping an Older Home

Repiping an older home involves replacing the worn-out pipes with new ones. This process can offer several benefits that make it a sound investment for any homeowner. These benefits include:

Increased water pressure

Old, corroded pipes can reduce water pressure and flow rate in the house. This can become a significant inconvenience, especially if you have multiple people using the water supply at the same time.

Repiping the house can increase the water pressure and flow rate significantly, enhancing the functionality of the plumbing system.

Better water quality

Old pipes are prone to rust and corrosion, which can lead to contamination of the water supply. Repiping the house can eliminate any harmful contaminants, ensuring clean and fresh water supply.

Energy efficiency

Old pipes can lead to water wastage, which can increase your water bills significantly. Repiping your home can reduce water wastage, ensuring a more energy-efficient plumbing system.

Repiping your home can reduce water wastage, ensuring a more energy-efficient plumbing system.

Improved Resale Value

Repiping your older home can provide a considerable boost to its resale value. A house with an outdated and worn-out plumbing system can scare away potential buyers. A repiped house, on the other hand, offers a functional and efficient plumbing system, an attractive feature for potential buyers.

When to Consider Repiping an Older Home

The decision to repipe an older home can be a significant one for any homeowner. Several signs can indicate the need for repiping. These signs include:

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is a clear sign of a plumbing system in distress. If you experience low water pressure frequently, it’s a sign that your pipes are clogged, corroded, or in bad shape.

Water Discoloration

If you notice discoloration in your water, this could be a sign of rust and other contaminants. While some discoloration may be temporary, frequent changes in water color should prompt a repiping project.

Frequent leaks

Old pipes are prone to leaks, which can lead to water damage and mold growth. If you experience frequent leaks in your plumbing system, it’s an indication that the pipes have reached the end of their lifespan.

The Repiping Process

Repiping an older home is a complex process that involves replacing outdated pipes with new ones. The process may involve opening up walls, ceilings, and floors, which can be a daunting prospect for any homeowner.

The first step in the repiping process is a thorough camera inspection of the existing plumbing system. This inspection will determine the extent of the damage and the scope of the project.

Once the inspection is complete, the plumber will map out a plan for the repiping process. This plan will include the type of new pipes to be installed, the routing of the pipes, and the areas that need to be opened up.

The actual repiping process involves cutting holes in the walls, floors, and ceilings to access the existing pipes. The plumber will then remove the old pipes and replace them with new ones.

The repiping process can take several days to complete, depending on the size of the house and the extent of the damage.

Hiring a Professional Plumber for Repiping

Repiping an older home requires a professional plumber with experience in handling such projects. Hiring a plumber ensures the entire process is done correctly and efficiently.

When choosing a professional plumber for repiping, consider the following:

Experience

Ensure the plumber you hire has experience in repiping older homes. They should have handled similar projects in the past and have a good reputation in the industry.

Licenses and Insurance

Ensure the plumber has the appropriate licenses and insurance to handle the project. This protects you from any liability in case of injuries or damages during the project.

Cost

Get a detailed estimate of the cost of the repiping project upfront, including any unexpected expenses that may arise. This ensures you don’t have to deal with any surprises later on.

Conclusion

Repiping an older home is a sound investment for any homeowner. It not only enhances the functionality and efficiency of the plumbing system but also provides several other benefits like better water quality and increased energy efficiency.

If you notice any signs of a distressed plumbing system like low water pressure, water discoloration, or frequent leaks, consider repiping your home. Hire a professional plumber with experience in repiping projects to ensure your repiping project is done correctly and efficiently, giving you peace of mind for years to come.

Sep '22

Signs You May Need to Replace Your Old Plumbing

A sound plumbing system is what makes an excellent base for every home. To keep it that way, one must be willing to perform regular maintenance and repairs. In actuality, depending on your system, the more frequent the check-ups and repairs are, the less chance something wrong will happen. Therefore investing time and money in maintenance and repairs is nothing new. By hiring professionals to perform an inspection, you can ensure that the plumbing system will continue to deliver the quality it is supposed to. This article will discuss some of the crucial signs you may need to replace your old plumbing.

Signs your old plumbing may need a replacement

Before we jump into specific signs of your old plumbing needing replacement, let’s take a quick look at what you can expect if you have an old plumbing installation. According to the professional plumbers at Chicago Plumbing Experts, these are the most common signs you need to replace your plumbing:

discolored water
constantly clogged pipes
corrosion
leakages
low water pressure

Although these are not the only signs you may need to replace your plumbing system, they are certainly the most common ones. They also significantly influence the quality of your everyday life since the bathroom is essential in every home.

Leakages, discolored water, and corrosion are some of the signs you may need to replace your old plumbing

Discoloration of water

One of the most prominent and early warning signs that something is wrong with your plumbing is the discoloration of water. If you want to pour a glass of water or wash your dishes or hands, and the water doesn’t have that clear color, you should check it out. Indeed, if this is only a one-time occurrence, you don’t need to worry much, as there might be repairs going on in your street or neighborhood. But if it occurs constantly, it could be one of the signs you may need to replace your old plumbing. The discolored water comes from corrosion from the pipes and represents that their working age has ended.

Visible corrosion

Visible corrosion is one of the most accurate signs your plumbing needs to be replaced. Similar to discoloration of water, visible corrosion is, as its name says, corrosion on the outside of the plumbing pipes. If this is the case, it represents a late stage in corrosion, which has probably also spread on the inside. This means that the quality of the pipes has been greatly reduced, and now they can’t perform well enough. It also represents an excellent reason to replace them since corroded pipes are a significant health risk. Depending on the materials and length of the pipes, replacing the plumbing may come at a steep price.

Corrosion is a clear sign that you may need to replace your plumbing system

Replace your plumbing if constantly clogged

Clogged pipes can be a true nightmare. They are very unpredictable in that you never know when they will make a mess and cause a leak or even burst. Those issues can cost you much money, time, and effort to repair. When clogged, the pipes accumulate more dirt, rubble, feces, and everything your family members or housemates can throw in the system. The normal water flow is therefore omitted and drastically reduced. The consequences can be severe. All that clogged material can build up so much that it can lead to major leakages in the pipe system or even a pipe bursting. This means you will have a significant issue with water all over your home, destroying many of your possessions and posing a risk to your home as well. This is why if you have a constant drain clogging problem, you should consult a professional plumber and opt-in for professional drain cleaning services to minimize the risk of disaster.

Low or no water pressure

If you realize that you don’t have enough pressure in your pipe system, then something is wrong. Low or no pressure can point to a couple of different things. First of all, it can mean a faulty heater in your boiler, which is far less of a problem. Another, more severe issue is that your pipes are leaking, causing the system to lose pressure. Depending on where they are leaking, it can be a challenging process to repair them. This can cause minor and severe property damage, and mold can form if left unchecked. Van Express Movers state that one of the most common reasons people move out of their homes is their inability to react to the plumbing problems and the damages it causes. However, if you regularly maintain your home and plumbing, you won’t need to panic because of potential water damage to your home.

Low pressure in the system can be a sign of replacement of plumbing

Leaks, and even more leaks

There can be no question about it: if you are suffering from leakage in your plumbing, you need to act fast. Leaks are probably the most recognizable signs you may need to replace your old plumbing. Although one small leak is not that serious of a problem, having multiple leaks can be a nightmare. The problem is that you may have hidden leaks and often can’t find the source of the leakage. This means that must replace the pipes immediately. If the pipes are not working correctly, they will probably cause even more leakage in the future. Since water always finds its way, one leak point can open dozens more on the way. A sign that the pipes are old and corroded and that you need to replace the plumbing or piping in your home.

Moving to replace your old plumbing

As we previously mentioned, moving instigated by severe plumbing damage is nothing new. If your home has suffered extensive water damage, moving out while the repairs are ongoing might be a good idea. By vacating your home, the plumbers will have an easier time fixing the damage. However, if the water damage is severe, you might want to consider removing your possessions as well. Therefore, hiring an expert helping hand can be a crucial choice. They have the right tools to help you out with even oversized and bulky items. This means they will do all the heavy lifting while you can dedicate your time to more pressing matters. This way, you will save a lot of your money and, most importantly, your time and patience.

In Summary

As we have seen, there are many signs you may need to replace your old plumbing. Some of them are more obvious than others. Constant repairs and maintenance are always a good idea and necessary for keeping your plumbing running efficiently. The best way to remedy any damage is to have regular check-ups and inspections.