Plumbing System
Plumbing System | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Charleston
Tired of rusty water, weak pressure, or surprise leaks? HEP’s licensed Charleston plumbers specialize in pipe upgrades that swap out tired galvanized or polybutylene lines for long-lasting PEX or copper. Using camera inspections and trenchless techniques, we diagnose hidden trouble, then repipe with minimal wall cuts and same-day water restoration—so your kitchen, bath, and laundry are back online fast, clean, and worry-free.
Every upgrade comes with transparent pricing, a workmanship guarantee, and the warm Southern courtesy you expect from a neighbor. Whether you’re renovating a historic downtown cottage or future-proofing a new build, our pipe upgrades protect your home’s value, improve water quality, and slash the risk of costly emergencies. Book your free assessment today and feel the difference the moment you turn on the tap.
FAQs
Why should I consider upgrading the pipes in my Charleston home?
Older galvanized steel or polybutylene pipes are prone to corrosion, leaks, and contamination. Upgrading reduces the risk of water damage, improves water pressure and quality, meets current plumbing codes, and can increase property value. In Charleston’s humid, salt-air environment, modern pipe materials last longer and better resist corrosion.
What pipe materials do you recommend for Charleston’s climate and why?
For most residential re-pipes we recommend Type L copper, PEX-A, or CPVC. Copper offers excellent durability and resists coastal corrosion when properly insulated. PEX-A is flexible, freeze-resistant, and less expensive to install, making it popular for whole-house jobs. CPVC is a cost-effective rigid option that handles hot water well. We evaluate water chemistry, budget, and home layout before making a final recommendation.
How can I tell if my plumbing system needs a pipe upgrade rather than a simple repair?
Warning signs include recurrent leaks at different locations, rusty or discolored water, noticeably low water pressure, visible corrosion on exposed pipes, or pipes installed before 1995 (galvanized or polybutylene). If more than 15–20 % of your piping has failed, or your home is already due for pipe lifespan replacement (40–60 years for galvanized, 20–30 for polybutylene), a full upgrade is usually more cost-effective than continued spot repairs.
How long does a whole-house re-pipe typically take in Charleston?
Most single-family homes are completed in 2–5 working days. We plan the project room-by-room, keep at least one bathroom operational whenever possible, and schedule county inspections promptly to minimize downtime. Larger homes or historic properties that require careful wall/ceiling access can take a week or more, but we provide a detailed timeline before work begins.
Will pipe upgrades disrupt my walls and flooring, and do you handle restoration?
We use minimally invasive techniques such as attic, crawlspace, and closet access points to limit drywall removal. Small drywall cuts are inevitable for fixture tie-ins, but we patch, texture, and prime all affected areas after the plumbing passes inspection. Flooring is rarely disturbed; if we must lift boards or tile, we relay or replace the material to match the existing finish.
Do I need a permit for pipe upgrades in Charleston, and who handles inspections?
Yes. The City of Charleston and Charleston County require plumbing permits for re-pipes and major pipe alterations. Our team pulls all necessary permits, schedules rough-in and final inspections with the local building department, and provides documentation for your records. This ensures your new piping meets South Carolina plumbing code and may help with future home resale or insurance requirements.