Whole-House Repiping: What It Is & How It Works

A whole house repipe is the replacement of all your home's water supply lines with new PEX or copper piping, typically completed in one to five days. It is the permanent fix for aging, leaking, or corroded pipes — instead of patching one section at a time, a plumber replaces the entire supply system and restores clean, full-pressure water throughout the house.

Here is what this guide covers:

• What a whole-house repipe is and when you need one
• The step-by-step repiping process
• How long it takes and how disruptive it is
• Materials and cost basics

What is a whole-house repipe?

Repiping replaces the pipes that carry fresh water to your fixtures — sinks, showers, toilets, tubs, and appliances. It does not usually mean replacing your drain or sewer lines, which are a separate system. Homeowners repipe when supply lines are too old or corroded to keep repairing, most often to eliminate recurring leaks, rusty water, or low pressure. Our whole-house repiping service handles the entire job, permit and inspection included.

How does repiping a house work?

A professional repipe follows a clear sequence:

• 1. Inspection & quote: The plumber assesses your existing pipes, maps the layout, and gives a written plan and price.
• 2. Prep & protect: Floors and furniture are covered, and small, strategic wall openings are made to access the lines.
• 3. Install new lines: New PEX or copper is run to every fixture, replacing the old supply pipes.
• 4. Connect & pressure-test: The new system is tied in and pressure-tested to confirm there are no leaks.
• 5. Inspection & permit: The city inspects the work and signs off — a required step in Sacramento.
• 6. Patch & clean up: Wall openings are closed and the work areas are cleaned and restored.

How long does a repipe take and how disruptive is it?

Most repipes take one to three days, and larger homes up to five. Water is shut off only during active work and is typically restored each evening, so you can usually stay in your home. The most visible disruption is the temporary wall access needed to reach the pipes, which is patched at the end.

PEX or copper — which material?

Repipes use either PEX (flexible, affordable, freeze-resistant) or copper (rigid, long-lasting, heat-tolerant). PEX is the most common choice for interior repipes because it installs faster and costs less, while copper is favored for exposed or outdoor runs. Both are code-approved and safe for drinking water.

How much does a whole-house repipe cost?

Most repipes run between $4,000 and $12,000 depending on home size, number of bathrooms, and material, with PEX costing less than copper. If your home has repeat pinhole leaks or you have needed leak detection & repair more than once, a full repipe often costs less over time than ongoing patch repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a whole house repipe?

It is the replacement of all your home's fresh-water supply lines with new PEX or copper piping, restoring clean water and full pressure throughout the house.

How does repiping a house work?

A plumber inspects and quotes the job, opens small wall access points, runs new pipe to every fixture, pressure-tests the system, passes a city inspection, then patches and cleans up.

Do you have to open walls to repipe?

Yes, but only small, strategic openings are needed to reach the pipes. These are patched at the end of the job, and a good crew keeps the openings to a minimum.

Can you live in your house during a repipe?

Usually yes. Water is shut off only during active work and is typically restored each evening, so most families stay home throughout the project.

How long does a whole house repipe last?

A new repipe lasts decades — roughly 40–50 years for PEX and 50–70+ years for copper — well beyond the life of the old pipes it replaces.

Repiping in Sacramento — Talk to Beaver Brothers Plumbing

Thinking about a repipe? Beaver Brothers Plumbing will inspect your system, explain exactly what the job involves, and give you a clear, written price before any work starts.

✔ Licensed & insured ✔ Same-day service ✔ Upfront, honest pricing

📞 Contact Beaver Brothers Plumbing for a free repiping estimate.

👉 Call (916) 885-1005 today to plan your whole-house repipe.