Aging Copper
Aging Copper | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Old Fort
Old Fort’s charm might be timeless, but the copper pipes running through many of its homes certainly aren’t. HEP’s trusted technicians specialize in pipe upgrades that replace corroding copper lines with resilient, modern materials—eliminating pinhole leaks, rusty water, and the constant worry of sudden blow-outs. We respect the character of historic properties, working cleanly and efficiently so your daily routine (and the integrity of your walls) stays intact.
Upgrading now not only boosts water pressure and purity, it also protects property value and slashes the risk of costly emergencies down the road. With transparent pricing, flexible scheduling, and workmanship backed by a solid guarantee, HEP makes safeguarding your plumbing as easy as turning on the tap. Discover how a proactive refresh today keeps Old Fort homes flowing smoothly for decades to come.
FAQs
How do I know if my copper plumbing in Old Fort needs upgrading?
Warning signs include repeated pinhole leaks, green or bluish stains around joints, rusty or metallic-tasting water, unexplained spikes in water bills, and visible corrosion on exposed pipe sections. Because many Old Fort homes were built before 1980, their copper lines are now past their expected 40–50 year life span. A professional inspection with a camera and pressure test can confirm whether a full or partial upgrade is advisable.
What problems occur with aging copper pipes?
Over time, copper can thin from the inside out due to pitting corrosion, especially in areas like Old Fort where slightly acidic or mineral-rich water is common. This leads to pinhole leaks, lowered water pressure, sediment in aerators, and water discoloration. Corroded copper can also leach trace metals into drinking water, posing health concerns for infants and people with compromised immune systems.
Which replacement materials do you recommend and why?
For most Old Fort homes we suggest PEX-A or Type L copper depending on budget and project goals. PEX-A resists scale buildup, handles freeze-thaw cycles well, and installs quickly with minimal wall demolition. Type L copper offers traditional durability and higher heat tolerance, making it ideal for exposed or high-temperature runs. In some projects a hybrid approach—PEX for branch lines and copper for risers—delivers the best value.
How long does a whole-house repipe usually take?
A typical single-family residence in Old Fort can be fully repiped in 2–5 working days, followed by drywall repair and paint touch-ups. The exact schedule depends on home size, accessibility (crawl space vs. slab), and whether you choose to combine the repipe with other renovations. We create a detailed timeline before work begins so you know what to expect each day.
Will pipe upgrades interrupt my water service and daily routine?
We sequence the project so you still have at least one functioning bathroom and kitchen tap most of the time. Water is generally shut off in short intervals—30-60 minutes per zone—while old lines are disconnected and new ones are activated. Protective drop cloths, shoe covers, and daily clean-ups keep dust to a minimum, allowing you to remain in your home throughout the upgrade.
How much should I budget for a copper pipe upgrade in Old Fort?
Costs vary with square footage, story height, material choice, and the extent of drywall/finish repairs. In the Old Fort market, a complete repipe for a 2-bath, 1,600 sq ft home averages $7,000–$11,000 with PEX and $10,000–$15,000 with all new copper. We provide a free on-site evaluation and a fixed-price proposal that includes permits, materials, labor, inspections, and patching, so there are no surprise add-ons.