Recurring Leaks
Recurring Leaks | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Philadelphia
Philadelphia’s storied rowhomes and bustling commercial spaces deserve plumbing that can keep pace. When you call HEP for recurring leaks, our master plumbers trace the issue to its source, replace fatigued lines with corrosion-resistant materials, and fine-tune water pressure so problems don’t come back. From 19th-century galvanized pipes to newer PEX systems, we tailor pipe upgrades to your property’s age, layout, and daily demands—always with clear, upfront pricing and respect for your space.
Customers choose us for more than technical skill: they value the swift scheduling, text-ahead arrival alerts, and tidy, shoe-covered service that have become our trademark. Whether you own a historic townhouse in Society Hill or manage a modern loft near the Delaware, our pipe upgrades keep water flowing where it should—saving you money, stress, and countless cleanup towels. Tap into HEP’s leak-free future today.
FAQs
Why do my pipes keep leaking even after repairs?
Philadelphia’s housing stock is older than the national average, and many homes still contain galvanized steel or thin-wall copper installed 50–100 years ago. These pipes corrode from the inside out, so a spot repair only fixes the visible hole while the rest of the line keeps deteriorating. High municipal water pressure, mineral scale, and temperature swings speed up the process, causing new pinhole leaks to appear months later. A comprehensive pipe upgrade replaces the entire failing section, eliminating the underlying corrosion and stopping the cycle of recurring leaks.
How can upgrading my pipes prevent recurring leaks?
A full or partial repipe removes aged, pitted lines and installs modern materials with superior corrosion resistance. New copper Type L, PEX-A, or CPVC piping has thicker walls, fewer connections, and manufacturer warranties of 25–50 years. By eliminating hidden weak spots and obsolete fittings, an upgrade provides a continuous, leak-free water path that withstands pressure surges, aggressive water chemistry, and seasonal freezing—dramatically lowering the risk of future leaks and water damage.
What pipe materials work best for Philadelphia’s climate and water quality?
1. Type L copper is the local standard for durability and code compliance, ideal for exposed runs and hot-water lines. 2. PEX-A (cross-linked polyethylene) is flexible, freeze-resistant to –40 °F, and installs with fewer joints—great for retrofits in finished walls. 3. CPVC is a cost-effective option for hot and cold water, but it is more rigid and requires careful support. Philadelphia’s slightly acidic water (pH ≈ 7.2) is compatible with all three materials, but galvanized and thin-wall copper are prone to internal rust and pinholing, which is why they are now discouraged.
How disruptive is a whole-house pipe upgrade?
A well-planned repipe is less invasive than most homeowners expect. For a 1,500 sq ft rowhome, crews typically need 3–5 working days on-site: • Day 1 – Shut off water, protect floors, and make strategic drywall cuts. • Days 2–3 – Remove old piping and run new lines through basements, joist bays, and wall cavities. • Day 4 – Pressure test, disinfect, and restore water service. • Day 5 – Patch drywall and clean up. You will be without water for only part of the first and fourth days. Larger or multi-story homes may take a week. Most contractors coordinate drywall repair and painting, so the home is left ready for final touch-ups.
Do I need a permit to replace or upgrade pipes in Philadelphia?
Yes. The Philadelphia Plumbing Code requires a plumbing permit for any replacement that goes beyond a direct, in-kind repair of a single fixture supply line. Your licensed master plumber will file the permit, submit a material list, and schedule inspections with the Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I). Skipping the permit can result in stop-work orders, fines, and difficulty closing on a future sale, so always verify that your contractor is properly licensed and insured.
What will a pipe upgrade cost, and are financing options available?
Prices vary by home size, accessibility, and chosen material. In 2024, typical ranges are: • Partial repipe (basement & first floor): $3,000 – $8,000 • Whole-house repipe (1,500 sq ft rowhome): $8,000 – $15,000 • Large or historic homes: $15,000 – $25,000+ Costs include permits, materials, labor, drywall patching, and a final inspection. Many Philadelphia plumbers offer 0% short-term financing, longer-term low-interest plans through lending partners, or acceptance of FHA Title I home-improvement loans. Ask about warranties—reputable contractors provide 1- to 2-year labor coverage plus the manufacturer’s 25- to 50-year material warranty.