Most plumbing problems can be solved with a simple repair, but when issues keep coming back, your pipes may be the real culprit. Knowing when to call a repiping company can save you from leaks, water damage, and high utility bills. If you live in Trenton, Highland, O’Fallon, or the surrounding Metro East area, here are seven signs it might be time to take a closer look at your home’s piping.
1. Low Water Pressure
If your sinks and showers are barely trickling, it could be due to corrosion or buildup inside old pipes. When multiple fixtures have low pressure, a repiping company may need to replace outdated lines to get your water flowing again.
2. Frequent Leaks
A leak here or there can happen, but if you’re patching pipes more than once in a year, that’s a red flag. Older pipes can weaken from the inside out, and constant repairs may cost more than repiping in the long run.
3. Discolored Water
Brown, yellow, or rusty water is a common sign of corroded pipes. Not only does it stain sinks and laundry, but it can also be unsafe to drink. If your water looks dirty or metallic, it’s worth having a professional inspect your plumbing system.
4. Old Pipe Materials
Homes built before the 1980s often use galvanized steel or polybutylene pipes, both of which are known to fail over time. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, older plumbing materials can also affect water quality. If your home has outdated piping, a repiping company can update the system before major issues occur.
5. Recurring Plumbing Repairs
If you’re calling the plumber every few months for clogs, bursts, or strange noises, your pipes may be nearing the end of their lifespan. Replacing sections over and over gets expensive; repiping solves the root problem.
6. Water Damage or Mold
Leaks inside walls or ceilings can cause mold, musty smells, or water stains. Hidden pipe damage is often more serious than it looks on the surface. A full inspection can determine if a larger fix is needed.
7. Fluctuating Water Temperature
Does your water suddenly turn cold or hot without warning? That can be caused by buildup or pipe damage restricting flow. A repiping company can assess whether your system needs replacement to ensure consistency.
When to Call a Local Pro
If you’re noticing any combination of these issues, repiping may be the most cost-effective long-term solution. Litteken Plumbing has served families across Trenton, Breese, Highland, and the Illinois Metro East area for more than 25 years. As a family-owned repiping company, we understand older home plumbing systems and replace pipes with minimal disruption.
Protect Your Home Before Damage Spreads
Repiping might sound like a big project, but ignoring aging pipes can lead to higher water bills, structural damage, or even full system failure. If any of these signs sound familiar, it’s time to talk to a trusted repiping company.
Call Litteken Plumbing today and let us inspect your piping before a small issue turns into a major repair.
FAQ
What are the most common signs that a home needs repiping? Most homes that need repiping show repeated leaks, low water pressure, discolored or rust-colored water, visible corrosion on exposed pipes, and recurring plumbing repairs. If any of these issues keep coming back, a full repipe may be the most cost-effective solution.
How old do pipes have to be before repiping is necessary? Pipes made from galvanized steel or polybutylene, common in homes built before the 1980s, often need replacement after 40 to 50 years. Even if the pipes are not yet failing, a professional inspection can determine whether proactive repiping makes sense.
Is repiping a major disruption to the home? Modern repiping techniques minimize disruption. Most projects require only small openings in walls or floors, and licensed plumbers work efficiently to limit downtime. Many homeowners can remain in the home during the process.
Can repiping fix low water pressure problems? Yes. Mineral buildup and interior corrosion in older pipes narrow the pipe diameter over time, restricting flow and reducing pressure. Replacing these lines with new copper or PEX piping restores full water pressure throughout the home.
Does repiping increase home value? Yes. Updated plumbing is a selling point for buyers and reduces the likelihood of expensive water damage. Many insurance providers also view recent repiping as a lower-risk factor, which can positively affect premiums.