When Should Homeowners Consider Repiping Their Homes?
Most homes need repiping after 20-30 years, depending on the material, water quality, and maintenance history.
Homes with galvanized steel or older copper plumbing often show corrosion, leaks, or low water pressure after 30+ years. If you’re seeing rusty water or frequent pipe repairs, it may be time for a professional whole-home repipe from Pipe It Right Plumbing.
How Long Do Different Types of Pipes Last?
The lifespan of your plumbing system depends largely on the material used and local water conditions:
| Pipe Material | Average Lifespan | Things To Note |
| Galvanized Steel | 20-50 years | Corrosion, rust-colored water, reduced flow |
| Copper | 40-60 years | Pinhole leaks, mineral buildup |
| PEX (Cross-Linked Polyethylene) | 50+ years | Minimal corrosion; flexible, resistant to scale |
| CPVC / PVC | 40-70 years | Brittle with extreme heat or UV exposure |
In a lot of Southern California homes, especially those built before the 1980s, we still find old galvanized or thin-wall copper lines that just can’t keep up anymore.
Signs It’s Time to Consider Repiping
You don’t have to wait for a major leak to act. Common warning signs include:
- Discolored or rusty water coming from taps
- Frequent leaks in walls or ceilings
- Low or inconsistent water pressure
- Metallic taste or odor in water
- Visible corrosion around fittings or shutoff valves
- Water damage on drywall or baseboards
If multiple symptoms appear across your plumbing system, repairs may only offer temporary relief. That’s when a whole-home repipe becomes the cost-effective long-term fix.
Repair or Repipe?
Some homeowners choose to patch leaks as they occur, but this can add up quickly.
When a system reaches the end of its lifespan, patching leaks one by one often costs more over time than replacing the entire system.
A whole-home repipe eliminates weak points, ensures consistent water flow, and brings the plumbing system up to current building standards.
Learn more about this process in our Whole-Home Repiping Service Guide.
Why Professional Evaluation Matters
Even if your home isn’t showing major issues, it’s smart to have a licensed plumbing contractor perform a repiping inspection every 10–15 years.
During an inspection, experts:
- Assess pipe age and material
- Check for corrosion, leaks, and pressure loss
- Review water quality and mineral buildup
- Provide a timeline for future maintenance or replacement
Working with a specialist ensures your plumbing system remains reliable and efficient for decades.
Quick Takeaways
- Most homes need repiping after 20-50 years (depending on material).
- Watch for warning signs: leaks, discoloration, and pressure drops.
- Repiping saves money and improves water quality long-term.
- Licensed contractors like Pipe It Right Plumbing ensure proper materials and code compliance.
Upgrade Your Plumbing with a Lasting Solution
If your home’s plumbing is showing its age, Pipe It Right Plumbing can help you plan a repipe that fits your timeline and budget.
Located in Southern California?
Learn more about whole-home repiping services or contact our team to schedule an in-home inspection today.