If you’re looking to repipe a house, copper piping is the way to go. Not only is it durable, but it also improves the quality of your water. Copper piping can also increase the value of your home. However, copper repiping can be expensive, and it’s essential to know how much it can cost to avoid any surprises. In this article, we’ll be discussing how much it costs to repipe a house with copper.
What is Copper Repiping?
Copper repiping is the process of replacing all the old or damaged pipes in a house with copper pipes. This process includes removing the old pipes, installing new copper pipes, and soldering them in place. The process can be extensive and can take several days, depending on the size of the house.
Factors that Affect the Cost of Copper Repiping
The cost of repiping a house with copper can vary depending on some different factors.
Size of the Home: The size of your home is one of the primary factors affecting the cost of copper repiping. The larger the home, the more time and materials it will require, and hence, the more costly it will be.
Extent of Repiping: If you’re only replacing specific parts of your home’s piping system, the cost will be lower than if you’re replacing the whole system.
Type of Piping: Copper piping is more expensive than other types of piping materials, like PVC or galvanized steel, and this can affect the overall cost of the project.
Complexity of Installation: If the installation requires additional work, like drilling through concrete or accessing tight spaces, this will increase the cost.
The Average Cost of Copper Repiping
The cost of copper repiping can vary depending on the factors mentioned above. The average cost of copper repiping ranges from $3,500 to $15,000, with most homeowners paying an average of $8,000. The cost may seem daunting, but it’s a worthwhile investment in the long run as copper piping can last up to 50 years.
Additional Costs of Copper Repiping
In addition to the primary cost of copper repiping, there may be additional costs to consider, such as:
Permit Fees: Depending on your city or state, you may need to get permits before you can start repiping your house. These fees can cost between $50 and $500.
Cleanup Costs: There will likely be some debris left over from the installation, and you’ll need to pay for its disposal.
Wall or Flooring Damage: In some cases, wall or flooring damage may occur during the installation process, and you’ll need to pay an additional cost to repair it.
How to Save Money on Copper Repiping
While copper repiping isn’t cheap, there are ways to save money on the project:
Get Multiple Quotes: Contact multiple plumbers to get an idea of the cost and compare the quotes to find the best deal.
Do it Yourself: If you have experience with plumbing, you may be able to install the copper pipes yourself. However, if you’re unsure, it’s best to hire a professional.
Install Only What’s Necessary: Instead of repiping the entire house, you can choose to replace only the old or damaged parts to save money.
Conclusion
Copper repiping is a significant investment, but it’s worth it because it improves water quality, increases the value of your home, and can last up to 50 years. The cost of repiping depends on several factors, including the size of your home, the extent of the repiping, and the complexity of the installation. While copper repiping isn’t cheap, there are ways to save money; contact multiple plumbers to get the best deal, install only what’s necessary, and consider doing it yourself if you have experience with plumbing. Remember to get permits if they’re required and budget for any additional costs that may arise.