Galvanized Lines
Galvanized Lines | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Ducktown
Ducktown’s charming older homes often hide a not-so-charming surprise: corroded galvanized lines that leave you with rusty water, weak pressure, and an ever-present worry about leaks. HEP’s seasoned plumbers replace those outdated pipes with modern PEX or copper, using camera inspections and precise sectional replacements to keep walls intact and downtime minimal. You’ll see clearer water and steadier flow before we even pack up our tools.
From the first free assessment to the final pressure test, we handle every step of your pipe upgrades with transparent pricing and neighborly care. Enjoy peace of mind backed by lifetime workmanship warranties, energy-saving insulation options, and a team that’s on call 24/7—because Ducktown deserves plumbing as reliable as its people.
FAQs
Why should I replace old galvanized pipes in my Ducktown home?
Galvanized steel pipes were once popular, but they corrode from the inside out over time. Corrosion narrows the pipe diameter, reduces water pressure, releases rust particles into the water, and can eventually cause leaks or bursts. Replacing them prevents costly water damage, improves water quality and flow, and brings your plumbing up to modern building standards recognized by Ducktown inspectors.
What signs indicate my galvanized plumbing lines need upgrading?
Common warning signs include low or inconsistent water pressure, brown or rusty-tinted water—especially after the water has been off for several hours—visible rust around pipe joints, frequent pin-hole leaks, and water stains on walls or ceilings. If your house in Ducktown was built before the mid-1970s and still has original plumbing, there is a high likelihood the lines are galvanized and nearing the end of their life.
What pipe materials do you recommend as replacements, and why?
We typically install either Type L copper tubing or PEX-A cross-linked polyethylene, depending on your budget, home layout, and personal preferences. Copper is durable, has a 50-plus-year lifespan, resists UV light for exposed runs, and boosts resale value. PEX-A is less expensive, flexible (so fewer fittings and faster installation), resistant to mineral buildup, and carries long manufacturer warranties. Both materials are approved by Ducktown plumbing codes for potable water.
How long does a typical galvanized line upgrade take for a standard Ducktown residence?
For an average 1,500–2,000 sq ft single-story home, most projects take 2–4 days from shut-off to final inspection. Multi-story homes or those with complex layouts may take up to a week. We handle permitting with the City of Ducktown in advance, stage materials, and schedule inspections to keep downtime to a minimum. You will usually have partial water service restored at the end of each day.
Will pipe replacement require tearing into my walls and floors?
Some access openings are necessary, but we use minimally invasive techniques. In many Ducktown homes we run new PEX or copper lines through attics, crawl spaces, or basement ceilings, then stub into fixtures, reducing the need for wall demolition. Where openings are unavoidable—such as behind showers or in tight chases—we cut small, precise holes and patch them afterward. Our crews include drywall and paint specialists so your walls look as good as new when we leave.
How much does upgrading from galvanized to modern piping cost in the Ducktown area?
Costs vary with home size, number of fixtures, and material choice. As a ballpark, a full repipe with PEX-A in a 2-bath, 1,600 sq ft house typically ranges from $4,500 to $7,500. Choosing copper can add 30–50 %. Additional factors—such as slab foundations, difficult access, or concurrent fixture upgrades—may increase the price. We provide free on-site evaluations and detailed, no-obligation quotes so you know the exact investment before work begins.