Complete Repipe
Complete Repipe | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Charleston
When Charleston’s salty air and shifting soils start taking a toll on your plumbing, HEP’s complete repipe service steps in with precision planning, premium materials, and the courteous crew our Lowcountry neighbors know and trust. From historic downtown homes to modern builds on Daniel Island, we replace failing galvanized or polybutylene lines with durable PEX or copper, minimizing wall cuts and downtime. You’ll get clear communication, upfront pricing, and a sparkling-clean job site—plus the peace of mind that comes from lifetime-backed workmanship.
These thoughtful pipe upgrades safeguard water pressure, eliminate rusty stains, and prepare your property for future renovations or resale inspections. Schedule a free in-home evaluation today, and let HEP deliver a seamless flow of fresh water to every tap and fixture throughout your Charleston home.
FAQs
How do I know my Charleston home needs a complete repipe rather than a simple repair?
Several warning signs point to systemic pipe failure rather than an isolated leak: frequent pin-hole leaks, rusty or discolored water, low and fluctuating water pressure, and visible corrosion on exposed galvanized or polybutylene lines (common in many pre-1990 Charleston homes). Because the Lowcountry’s humid, salty air accelerates metal corrosion, localized repairs often become a band-aid that fails again within months. If you have multiple leaks in a 12-month period or plumbing that is more than 40–50 years old, a full repipe is usually the most reliable and cost-effective long-term solution.
What pipe materials do you install and which is best for Charleston’s climate?
We primarily install PEX-A (cross-linked polyethylene) and Type-L copper. PEX-A is flexible, resists scale buildup from our hard water, flexes slightly with Charleston’s shifting soils, and tolerates high humidity without corroding—making it the most popular choice. Type-L copper is ideal for homeowners who prefer metal piping; it withstands high temperatures and has a 50+-year life expectancy when properly installed. We do not use CPVC or galvanized steel in repipes because they are prone to cracking and corrosion in our coastal environment.
How long does a whole-house repipe take, and will I need to move out?
A typical single-family residence (1,500–2,500 sq ft) takes 2–4 working days. Larger or historic downtown properties can take up to a week due to plaster walls or limited crawl-space access. Water is generally shut off for only a few hours at a time; we stage the project so you have evening water service each day. Most clients stay in their homes throughout the process, and we provide temporary water hookups for kitchens or bathrooms when possible.
Will a repipe require opening walls and floors, and how do you manage the cleanup?
Yes. To access horizontal and vertical runs we make small, strategic cuts—usually 12" × 12" squares—behind fixtures, inside closets, or above ceilings. Our crew protects floors and furniture with drop cloths, plastic sheeting, and shoe covers. After testing the new piping, we patch, texture, and prime the drywall so it’s paint-ready. We haul away all debris and perform a final walkthrough to ensure the home is left clean.
Do I need permits or inspections for a repipe in Charleston County, and who handles them?
Charleston County and most surrounding municipalities (Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, James Island, etc.) require a plumbing permit and rough-in/final inspection for any whole-house repipe. Our licensed master plumber pulls the permit, schedules inspections, and meets the inspector on-site. All work is completed to the current International Plumbing Code (IPC) as adopted by South Carolina, guaranteeing your insurance and future resale value are protected.
How much does a repipe cost and what financing options are available?
Prices vary with home size, material choice, and accessibility, but most Charleston projects fall between $4,500 and $12,000. The quote we provide is fixed-price and includes materials, labor, permit fees, wall repair, and a 25-year warranty on parts and workmanship. We partner with local credit unions to offer zero-interest same-as-cash plans for 12 months, or low-interest terms up to 60 months, so you can spread the cost out comfortably while protecting your property from ongoing water damage.