Piping & Repiping Services in Charlottesville, VA
Serving Albemarle, Fluvanna, Louisa, Nelson, Augusta, Madison, Greene & Orange Counties
The quality of your home’s pipes directly impacts your plumbing system’s function and reliability. As they age, pipes can become corroded or damaged. This can lead to leaks, low water pressure, and other problems.
Fortunately, Albemarle Heating & Air provides expert piping and repiping services throughout the Charlottesville area. Whether you’re looking for dependable plumbing pipe installation services or need to replace failing piping, we can help.
Schedule piping and repiping services for your Charlottesville home today. Call the experts at Albemarle Heating & Air at 434-293-4556.
What Is Repiping?
Repiping is the process of replacing your home’s water supply pipes. That includes both your hot- and cold-water lines that feed your baths, showers, sinks, and appliances.
The process involves removing the existing pipes and installing a new network of plumbing pipes. This job is typically done during a home remodel or addition or if your water supply pipes have severely deteriorated.
Signs You Need Repiping
As with any plumbing problem, it can be difficult to determine when repiping is necessary before a catastrophic failure. Below are signs of pipe failure that you shouldn’t ignore:
- Your home has lead pipes: Before 1986, homes were fitted with lead pipes or lead soldering on copper pipes, which present a significant hazard when lead seeps into your water supply, making repiping necessary.
- Your home has cast iron or galvanized steel pipes: Cast-iron and galvanized steel pipes are more prone to corrosion. These materials haven’t been installed in homes since the 1960s, so they’re likely deteriorated if you still have them.
- Your home has polybutylene pipes: Polybutene pipes have a short life span and crack when exposed to heat. They’re no longer installed in homes, and they’re not worth repairing this material when other materials last much longer.
- You need frequent pipe repairs: If your plumbing system consistently develops leaks or other problems warranting repeat service, it’s likely time for repiping.
- Your home is being remodeled: If you’re remodeling a bathroom or kitchen or adding to your home, it’s a great time to update outdated plumbing pipes.
Call Albemarle Heating & Air at 434-293-4556 to request residential repiping in Charlottesville.
Pipe Repair vs. Replacement
Not all issues with your plumbing system necessitate pipe replacement. Some issues are localized to one area and simply need a professional pipe repair.
Professional plumbers like those at Albemarle Heating & Air can assess your plumbing, identify the problem, and determine if a repair or replacement is necessary.
Below are indicators something is wrong and your plumbing system should be inspected by a professional:
- No water
- Low water pressure
- An unexplained increase in water bills
- Water stains on walls or ceilings
- Red or brown water
- Sediment in your water
If your home uses an outdated piping material, like cast iron, galvanized steel, or lead, we’ll almost always recommend replacement if you’re having issues.
Trust Albemarle Heating & Air and schedule pipe repair or replacement. Call us at 434-293-4556 to get started.
How Long Do Pipes Typically Last?
Over the last century, homes were built with pipes made of different materials, many of which are no longer used. Below are pipe materials found in homes and their typical life spans:
- Galvanized steel pipes: 40 to 50 years
- Brass pipes: 40 to 70 years
- Copper pipes: 50 years or more
- Cast iron pipes: 75 to 100 years
- PVC pipes: 100 years or more
- PEX pipes: 30 to 50 years
- Polybutylene pipes: 10 to 15 years
Schedule repiping services with Albemarle Heating & Air today. Call 434-293-4556 to get started.
Choose Albemarle Heating & Air for Repiping in Charlottesville
Since 1988, Albemarle Heating & Air has served the Charlottesville area with award-winning services and high-quality products.
We’re a fully licensed and insured company that provides free estimates, upfront pricing, and financing options.
With our peace of mind guarantee, you can confidently choose our team for your piping and repiping needs.
Contact us at 434-293-4556 today to schedule pipe replacement in the Charlottesville area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth it to repipe a house?
Yes, it’s always worth repiping a house. In doing so, you’ll have:
- Fewer pipe repair needs
- Improved water efficiency
- Added home value
- Improved safety for your family
- Cleaner and safer drinking water
How do I prepare my home for repipe?
There are several things you can do to make the repiping process simpler and more efficient:
- Clean and remove everything from areas where pipes are housed, such as kitchen and bathroom cabinets, and around toilets, showers, and sinks.
- Clean and declutter your basement as much as possible, as it will likely get wet during the repiping process.
- Clear any crawl space area with pipes for easier access and workspace for your plumbers.
- Plan to stay elsewhere during the process, as your water will be turned off.
Are PVC, PEX, or copper pipes better?
Each piping material has its own benefits and shortcomings:
- Copper pipes are durable and can withstand extreme temperatures, but they are more expensive to install than other materials.
- PEX pipes are easier and cheaper to install than copper pipes. However, they’re sensitive to UV light and aren’t recyclable.
- PVC piping is affordable, versatile, and won’t corrode or rust. They can’t withstand temperatures above 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
What's involved in repiping a house?
A repiping process begins with removing drywall throughout your home to access your home’s pipes.
Your hot- and cold-water pipes will be removed and replaced with new piping. Your drywall will then be patched or replaced and painted.
Depending on your home size, the entire process can take a few days or a full week.
CHARLOTTESVILLE AND SURROUNDING AREAS Albemarle County | Fluvanna County | Louisa County | Nelson County | Augusta County | Madison County | Greene County | Orange County