If you’re dealing with aging pipes, low water pressure, or frequent leaks, you might be wondering whether to hire a repipe company or a general plumber to fix the problem. While both can handle plumbing issues, their expertise and approach can be very different. Here’s a breakdown of when to use a repipe company versus a traditional plumber.
Understanding the Difference
Plumbing Company
A licensed plumber is a generalist who handles a wide range of plumbing tasks, from leak detection and water heater plumbing to slab leak repairs and unclogging drains. They can replace sections of pipes when needed but may not specialize in whole house repipe jobs.
Repipe Company
A repipe company specializes in replacing entire old plumbing systems with new ones. They focus on whole home repipes, repipe plumbing on mobile homes, businesses, or sections of properties where the plumbing has become outdated or problematic. These companies often have teams that work efficiently to complete repiping projects quickly and with minimal disruption.
When to Hire a Plumber or Emergency Plumber?
- Minor Repairs: If you have a leak and need leak detection services, a clogged drain, or need a fixture replaced, a same day plumber is the perfect choice.
- Emergency Repairs: Additionally, burst pipes, water heater failures, and urgent plumbing issues are best handled by a general plumber who can respond quickly.
- Localized Pipe Replacements: If only a section of your plumbing needs replacement, a plumber can handle the job without you worrying of the cost to repipe a house.
When to Hire a Repipe Company?
- Old or Failing Pipes: If your home has outdated galvanized, polybutylene, or corroded copper pipes, a repipe company is ideal for replacing your entire system.
- Frequent Leaks or Low Water Pressure: Ongoing plumbing issues throughout your home may signal that your entire plumbing system needs an upgrade.
- Major Renovations or Home Sales: If you’re remodeling or preparing to sell your home, a repipe can increase its value and prevent future plumbing issues.
- Faster Completion Time: Repipe companies specialize in quick turnarounds and can often complete the job in 1-2 days, minimizing disruptions.
Cost Considerations
Hiring a general plumber for minor repairs or small pipe replacements is usually more cost-effective than a whole home repipe or even a slab leak repair—which often leads to full repipe plumbing. However, if your plumbing system is aging and you’re constantly paying for repairs, a full PEX repipe can be a smarter long-term investment. This also would all
The Bottom Line
If you’re facing a small plumbing issue, a plumber is likely the best (and most affordable) option. But if your home’s entire plumbing system is deteriorating, a repipe company offers specialized expertise and efficiency for a long-lasting solution.
👉 Need help deciding? You’re in luck! As it turns out, Sam of Just Plumbing By Sam is both a general plumber and a repipe specialist serving the greater St. Petersburg area.
👉 Call us now at 727-320-4933 for any issues you’re having and we’ll get you on the books and fast!