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Worn or damaged plumbing pipes can lead to various problems in your home. Galvanized iron pipes in older houses eventually corrode, which causes rust in your water supply, and could result in water damage due to leaks or breakage. It could be time to install new pipes if you notice a drop in water pressure, or see or smell mildew. If you're ready to learn how to repipe a house, consider these suggestions.


  1. 1
    Calculate the cost involved. Carefully examine the plumbing lines to inspect the condition of each pipe in the house. Depending on your budget, install new pipes only where needed. Some may be newer than others, and could be left intact if they are still operational. If the task seems too daunting, get a professional opinion.
    • Start by locating the primary water supply line. There should only be one main water supply line connected to the house. Trace the cold water pipe from the water heater back to the main line.
    • Look for rust, corrosion, leaks, and faulty connections. Inspect all the other cold and hot water connections as you follow from the main line. Mark the pipes that need replacing as you go.
  2. 2
    Purchase the new supplies. Visit a home improvement store for replacement pipes and appropriate fittings. Replacing water pipes with PVC piping is a popular option. Speak to the customer service specialist in the plumbing department about re-plumbing a house and the correct supplies and tools you will need. Ask for advice, and take notes if necessary.
    • Due to its durable nature, copper remains a popular choice, but tends to be more expensive. Techniques such as soldering and bending could also make it more difficult to work with.
    • Notice the difference between PVC, for cold water, and CPVC, designed for hot water connections. If repiping drainage, ensure to purchase the correct type as well.
  3. 3
    Turn off the main water supply. In order to repipe a house, the water from the street or well must be prohibited from flowing through the pipes. Drain all excess water by turning on the sink and shower faucets, and flushing commodes. Be sure to turn the faucets back off after the water flow stops.
  4. 4
    Remove the old pipes. Cover floor with protective material like cardboard to prevent water stains. Using a hacksaw or standard plumbing tools, cut or unfasten existing pipes and dispose of properly. You should be able to recycle metal pipes at a salvage yard. Be careful with jagged or serrated edges.
    • Remove nuts or metal fittings with an adjustable wrench, and replace along with water pipes if necessary.
  5. 5
    Install new pipes. Route the new pipes through the same holes in the floor and walls. Use a tape measure, and cut each piece to length with a hacksaw. Connect to fittings with PVC glue (or solder if using copper). Seal excess space in holes with foam sealant. This helps prevent insects from entering the house, and provides insulation.

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  • Contact the local building inspector at city hall before you install new pipes to ask about any required permits or inspections. Re-plumbing a house can be a challenging process, and you want to be sure to do it right.


  • When re-plumbing a house be aware of the presence of spiders under the floor or in the walls. Protect yourself from a bite by spraying or fogging the area with insecticide prior to working.

Things You'll Need

  • Hacksaw
  • Tape measure
  • Adjustable wrench
  • PVC glue
  • Foam sealant

Article Info

Categories: Stub | Accuracy | Plumbing Drains Waste and Vents

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