Repiping your home is definitely worth it if you’re noticing signs of plumbing issues, such as low water pressure, discolored or unusual-tasting water, slow drainage, or leaky pipes. However, repiping doesn’t add value to a home like you might expect, so it’s only worth it if you’re having problems with your current system.
Many plumbers prefer to work with PEX because it doesn’t corrode, is resistant to sediment buildup problems, and is less likely to burst in freezing weather. Because PEX is a flexible hose, it’s much easier to work with and install. With that said, copper piping is more durable in the long term (and more expensive), so you’ll need to balance longevity with upfront costs.
The time it takes to repipe a house mostly depends on the size of the project. For a small home with just a handful of fixtures, an entire repiping project could take just a couple of days. On the other hand, repiping a large, multi-story home with several bathrooms could take weeks to complete.
Signs that it’s time to repipe your home include water leaks, frequently clogged drains, reduced water pressure, visual signs of corrosion on your pipes, discolored water, or unusual tastes or odors in your water.