You’re not flipping a switch here. You’re pulling old, crusty pipes out of your walls and replacing them with something that won’t fail you during a shower.
Repiping your home takes time, but not a long time. Here’s what to expect…
Typical Repipe Timeline
| Home Size | Time Estimate |
|---|---|
| 1–2 bed / 1 bath | 1–2 days |
| 3 bed / 2 bath | 3–5 days |
| Large / custom homes | 7–10 days |
Add 1–2 extra days if you want the drywall patched and painted.
What Does “Repiping a House” Actually Mean?
It means every hot and cold water supply line in your home gets replaced. Sometimes new shut-off valves and fixtures are added.
It doesn’t include your drains or sewer lines. If those are slow or backing up, that’s a separate job.
How Long Does It Take to Repipe a House? Step-by-Step Timeline
You’re looking at a few days to a week depending on the size of your home, the pipe system, and who’s doing the job.
1. Planning & Permit Stage (1–5 Days)
Someone inspects your plumbing system, gives you a quote, and pulls permits. If the city drags its feet, this step drags too.
2. Installation Phase (1–7 Days)
Your water is shut off (usually for a day), walls get opened, and new pipe material goes in. PEX is fast. Copper pipes take longer.
3. System Testing & Inspection (Same Day or +1 Day)
They pressurize the system, check for leaks, and make sure the water flows like it should. Sometimes a city inspector stops by.
4. Wall Repair & Clean-Up (1–2 Days)
The holes get patched, sanded, and painted. Some companies handle this. Others leave it for you or a handyman.
Factors That Affect How Long Repiping Takes
This depends on more than just square footage. Here’s what changes the schedule.
Size & Layout of the Home
More bathrooms = more pipe = more time. Homes on slabs or with split-level layouts slow things down.
Type of Pipe Material
PEX is flexible and quick.
Copper needs cutting and soldering—slower.
CPVC falls in the middle, but it’s more fragile.
Accessibility of Pipes
Tight corners, low crawlspaces, and wall depth matter. Open joists make it easier.
Crew Experience & Tools
A team that does repipes all the time will move faster. A general plumber might not.
How to Speed Up the Process Without Cutting Corners
- Hire a repipe specialist, not a handyman.
- Use PEX unless there’s a reason not to.
- Don’t schedule around holidays or city office closures.
- Clear out under sinks and move furniture near walls.
Will You Be Without Water During a Repipe?
Sometimes, yes, but usually not for the whole time. Crews work in zones.
You might have short outages in one area while others stay on. The full house is rarely shut off for more than a day.
Warning Signs You Need to Repipe Soon
If you’re not sure when to start a repipe project, here’s a few warning signs.
- Frequent pinhole leaks
- Discolored water
- Weak water pressure
- Pipes older than 30 years (especially galvanized steel)
Why Homeowners Choose Buddy’s Plumbing for House Repiping
Buddy’s Plumbing Excellence takes care of the entire repipe process. This includes inspection, permits, installation, testing, and wall repair.
We do it all in one smooth job. No subcontractors. No delays.
We use PEX for fast installs, but we’re just as skilled with copper or CPVC. Every job follows code. Every detail gets done right.
We serve Akron, OH and surrounding areas with speed, precision, and zero nonsense. Plumbing at the speed of NOW.
FAQs
Can I stay home during the repipe?
Yes, most people do. Crews work in sections and clean up daily.
What’s the difference between partial and full repipe?
Partial is band-aid work. Full is all new water lines = peace of mind.
Do I need to replace my drains too?
Not unless your drain lines are cast iron or already causing problems.
Does homeowners insurance cover repiping?
Not for old pipes. It usually only kicks in for sudden damage. Always check.
Is repiping noisy or dusty?
Yes, but only for a day or two. Most crews protect surfaces and vacuum at the end.
