Certified Plumbers
Certified Plumbers | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Sewanee
Is your Sewanee home still relying on decades-old galvanized or polybutylene lines? HEP’s certified plumbers specialize in pipe upgrades that replace fragile, leak-prone plumbing with durable PEX or copper solutions engineered for today’s water demands. From careful camera inspections to precise repiping, we protect your walls, floors, and landscaping while giving you a stronger, cleaner water flow and higher property value in one seamless project.
Because every household’s plumbing layout is unique, our team tailors each plan around your budget, timeline, and lifestyle. We coordinate permits, keep worksites spotless, and back every installation with transparent pricing and rock-solid warranties—so all you notice is better pressure and peace of mind. Ready to future-proof your plumbing? Call or click to schedule your free Sewanee consultation, and discover how effortless pipe upgrades can be with HEP on the job.
FAQs
Why should I consider upgrading my home’s plumbing pipes in Sewanee?
Many homes in Sewanee still contain galvanized steel, polybutylene, or even lead piping installed decades ago. These older materials corrode, restrict water flow, and can leach contaminants into drinking water. Upgrading eliminates hidden leaks that waste water and drive up utility bills, improves water pressure and quality, reduces the risk of catastrophic pipe bursts during winter freezes, and brings your system up to current plumbing code—often a prerequisite when selling or refinancing your home.
What pipe materials do your certified plumbers recommend for replacements in Sewanee’s climate?
We generally recommend Type L copper or PEX-A tubing. Copper is long-lasting, fire-resistant, and naturally antimicrobial. PEX-A is flexible, resistant to mineral buildup, and handles Sewanee’s freeze–thaw cycles better because it can expand slightly without bursting. For drain, waste, and vent lines we typically use schedule 40 PVC. We select materials based on water chemistry, installation location, and your budget, and we’ll explain the pros and cons of each option before work begins.
How can I tell if my plumbing pipes need an upgrade or full replacement?
Warning signs include rusty or discolored water, persistent metallic taste, frequent pinhole leaks, unexplained spikes in water bills, low water pressure in multiple fixtures, banging or groaning noises when faucets close, and visible corrosion on exposed piping in basements or crawl spaces. Houses built before 1986 may contain lead solder or pipes; homes from 1978-1995 often have polybutylene that is prone to sudden failure. A camera inspection and pressure test by our certified plumbers can confirm the pipe condition and help you decide between targeted repairs and a whole-house repipe.
What is the typical process and timeline for a whole-house pipe upgrade?
1) Assessment & estimate (1 day): We map your current system, locate shut-offs, and pull needed permits. 2) Preparation (½-1 day): Floors and walls are protected, water is shut off, and old water heaters are drained. 3) Demolition & rough-in (1-3 days): We remove outdated pipes and install new supply lines and fittings, making minimal access holes in walls or ceilings. 4) Pressure testing & inspection (½ day): Lines are pressurized to code specifications and inspected by Sewanee building officials. 5) Restoration (1-2 days): Drywall patches, painting, and fixture reconnections are completed. A typical 2-bath home takes 3-5 working days, although larger or historic properties may take longer.
Will upgrading my pipes increase property value or lower insurance costs?
Yes. Modern copper or PEX piping is a major selling point noted on inspection reports, and buyers are willing to pay more for homes without aging galvanized or polybutylene lines. Some insurers in Tennessee apply surcharges or refuse coverage for homes with known defect materials; once you upgrade, you may qualify for standard rates or discounts of 2-5 %. Energy-efficient fixtures installed during the repipe can also reduce monthly water and energy costs, providing long-term savings.
Do you offer warranties or financing options for pipe upgrade projects?
Absolutely. All workmanship is covered by our 5-year labor warranty, and most manufacturers offer 25-year material warranties on PEX-A and Type L copper. We partner with local banks and a national home-improvement lender to provide zero-down, low-interest financing with terms from 12 to 84 months. Seniors, veterans, and Sewanee Utility District customers may qualify for additional rebates—ask us during your free in-home consultation.