Rust-colored Water
Rust-colored Water | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Rockwood
Spotting rusty, brownish water when you turn on the tap can be alarming, but it’s usually a tell-tale sign that aging galvanized or cast-iron lines are corroding from the inside out. In Rockwood’s historic neighborhoods, those decades-old pipes have reached the end of their service life, releasing iron flakes that discolor water, stain fixtures, and even clog appliances. HEP’s licensed plumbers track the problem to its source with non-invasive cameras, then map out cost-effective pipe upgrades that swap out corroded metal for modern PEX or copper lines. The result is crystal-clear water, stronger pressure, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing every drop your family drinks travels through a clean, durable pathway.
From single-bath bungalows to multi-story commercial buildings, we stage each project to minimize downtime—often completing whole-home repiping in as little as one day. Our team pulls permits, hauls away the old pipes, and leaves every wall, floor, and lawn looking just as we found it. If rust-colored water has you reaching for bottled alternatives, let HEP restore your confidence (and your tap water) with expertly planned and executed pipe upgrades. Schedule your free estimate today, and discover why so many Rockwood neighbors say, “Call HEP!”
FAQs
What causes rust-colored or brown water in my Rockwood home?
The most common culprit is corrosion inside older galvanized steel or cast-iron supply lines. As the internal walls of these pipes rust, iron particles flake off and tint the water an orange or reddish-brown. In Rockwood, many homes built before the mid-1970s still rely on galvanized plumbing, so age-related corrosion is widespread. Occasional hydrant flushing or a break in the city main can also stir up sediment, but if the discoloration is constant or appears any time you open a tap after it has sat, your house pipes are almost certainly the source.
How will upgrading my pipes eliminate the discoloration?
Pipe replacement removes the corroded metal that is shedding rust into the water. Modern copper, PEX, or CPVC pipes are non-ferrous and do not rust, so once the old steel lines are removed the orange tint disappears permanently. In many Rockwood projects we also install a full-port main shut-off and new pressure-balanced valves, preventing future sediment pockets and giving you consistently clear, clean water.
Which replacement materials do you recommend for homes in Rockwood?
• PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) – Flexible, freeze-resistant, fewer fittings, and usually the most cost-effective for whole-house repipes. • Type L Copper – Time-tested metal option with a 50+ year life span and high resale appeal, ideal if you prefer a rigid pipe system. • CPVC – Chlorinated PVC rated for hot water, good for partial upgrades or budget projects. We evaluate water pressure, crawl-space or slab construction, and your budget before recommending the best material mix. All options are code-approved in Pierce County and carry manufacturer warranties of 25 years or longer.
What does the pipe-upgrade process look like and how long will it take?
1. Inspection & estimate (1 visit): We camera-scope accessible lines, locate shut-offs, and map fixture branches. 2. Permitting: Rockwood permits are typically issued in 3-5 business days. 3. Repiping (1–3 days for most 2-bath homes): Our crew drains the system, pulls new PEX or copper through walls, and reconnects every fixture. 4. Pressure & leak test: We pressurize to 120 psi for 2 hours to verify zero leaks. 5. Drywall patching & cleanup: Openings are sealed and textured to match. You will have water available at the end of each workday, and full service is restored once the final inspection passes.
Will new pipes improve water quality and pressure, and is the water safe to drink afterward?
Yes. Removing rusted lines eliminates iron, manganese, and microbial films that can leave stains, odors, and a metallic taste. Because modern pipes have a smoother interior, they also reduce friction loss, often raising household pressure by 5–15 psi. After installation we flush the system to clear construction debris, disinfect with food-grade sanitizer, and submit a post-upgrade bacterial sample to ensure the water meets Washington State drinking-water standards.
How much does a whole-house pipe replacement cost in Rockwood, and do you offer financing?
Prices vary with house size, number of bathrooms, and pipe material. A typical 1,800 sq ft, 2-bath home runs $6,500–$9,500 for PEX and $9,000–$13,000 for copper. Larger or multi-story homes can range higher. We provide a written, fixed-price proposal up front so there are no surprises. Flexible financing is available through our partner lender with 0% interest for 12 months or low-APR terms up to 84 months, and we handle the paperwork during your estimate visit.