Pipe Repair & Replacement

Home plumbing is designed to last for decade after decade of repeated use. But even the most durable materials are susceptible to corrosion over time.

What is Pipe Repair Vs Pipe Replacement?

Pipe repair describes a process in which your plumber identifies the source of a leak or clog within the plumbing system and replaces a specific piece of plumbing. These repairs are typically quick jobs that involve a few hours of work and solve a specific issue. Another term for this type of repair is called point repair because it involves a localized area within your home. Depending on the health of your plumbing system, these small repairs could go on for years without the need for any more extensive work. 

Pipe replacement is the process of completely stripping and upgrading your home’s plumbing system. This is obviously the most extreme and invasive plumbing repair that can be made, so be sure to discuss with your plumber to ensure there are no other options available. When a complete pipe replacement is recommended, it is because the leaks and corrosion issues within the system are so numerous that they are affecting the purity of the water and the quality of life for the homeowner. A word of advice would be to conduct a pipe replacement during a renovation when your home is already an active construction zone. If your system was created in the ’80’s or ’90’s your home could have had Polybutylene pipes installed. These pipes were a way to replace copper piping but were later discovered to be ineffective.

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Warning Signs for Pipe Replacement

Plumbing issues can range anywhere from small leaks and a gradual loss of water pressure, to more dramatic issues such as bursting pipes and flooding.
To ensure you are always aware of what’s happening with your home’s plumbing system and when it may be time for a replacement,
let’s take a look at some of the warning signs below.

Discolored Brown or Yellow Water Is Coming Out Of The Faucets

When you see these colors in your water, especially on a daily basis it can be a sign that there is rust in the pipes. While some rust is to be expected over time, it’s usually a sign of wider issues and should be inspected by a plumber.

You Find Yourself Calling for Plumbing Repairs On
A Monthly Or Weekly Basis

While having a good relationship with your plumber is important if you are seeing them for point repairs more than a few times a year it may be time to think about a complete pipe replacement. A pipe replacement may be expensive at the front end, but it will likely save you money over time on plumbing repairs.

Common Pipe Repair FAQS

It may surprise you to learn that just because a pipe in your home is old, it may not be necessary to replace it. For instance, copper supply lines have an expected lifespan of 70 to 80 years. That being said, there is always the possibility that your water pipes need to be replaced. Most times, the key is that you’re looking for performance in that most water pipes don’t need to be replaced until a problem or potential problem becomes evident.
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When you handle your regular maintenance around the home, it can be helpful to examine your visible pipes. You want to be on the lookout for leaks, cracks, and corrosion during your visual inspection. Even a tiny leak can be a severe problem when it comes to water damage and increased utility bills. In addition, cracks and corrosion could lead to a pipe bursting causing even more problems.
 
In addition to the visible check, you should also monitor your pipes and plumbing. Some signs that it may be time to replace water pipes or fixtures include low water pressure, discolored water, or dangerous materials. These can all be signs that there is an issue with your plumbing that needs to be addressed.
 
When in doubt, it’s always a good idea to contact Jolly Plumbing to evaluate your pipes. You may miss signs that your water pipes need to be replaced and end up with a larger bill on your hands.  

It’s time to replace the pipes in your home. The next question you ask yourself is how long you will have to be dealing with life without running water in your home. It can be a scary scenario and may make some think twice about having their plumbing taken care of at that time.
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The good news is that often, the work can be done during the day with your water shut off throughout your home, but at night, the water can usually be turned back on, so it shouldn’t interrupt your evening and morning routines. In some cases, you may not even have your water shut off during the day if they build the new plumbing system next to the old one. In this instance, you’d only have your water shut off when the new plumbing becomes the main plumbing in the home and old plumbing is removed.
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When it comes to the length of time it takes to repipe a home, it depends. There is a variety of factors in play. Is the entire house being repiped or only a section? Was your home during the 80’s when Polybutylene Pipe was installed? How many vanities, cabinets, walls, and other fixtures must be moved to get to the pipes? The answers to these questions can help to narrow down the answer. Small projects can take just a few days, while repiping a whole home can take up to a week, depending on the size of the house.
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The easiest way to learn more about how long your particular project will take is to talk to your plumbing service. They can go over the specifics for your home and give you a better idea about how long they estimate it will take.

Three materials are currently being used on the market to repipe homes that are some of the best options available: CPVC, copper, and PEX.
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CPVC, which stands for Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride, is a more robust version of PVC pipes you may already be familiar with for other projects. It can be a good option as it has a more economical price tag, is safe for drinking water, is flexible, and can withstand high temperatures as needed for hot water running through your home. It’s also doesn’t rust, is flame resistant, and insulated. However, this may not be a good choice if you’re having your whole home repiped as it doesn’t last as long as some of the other materials available. Also, over time, it can get brittle, which can lead to cracking.
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Copper is a prevalent material, thanks to the qualities that this metal offers. Copper doesn’t need as much maintenance as other metals used in plumbing. It doesn’t corrode, can tolerate heat, can be recycled, and is safe for drinking water. In addition, copper has been shown to have antimicrobial properties. However, copper can be a more expensive option, especially when doing the entire home’s pipes in copper.
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PEX, also known as cross-linked polyethylene, is a popular option thanks to its properties. Unlike CPVC, it lasts longer and is cheaper than copper. In addition, it’s flexible, lightweight, and safe for drinking water. It’s also easier to use in older homes as it can fit into tight spaces.
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The best material for every project may be a bit different. To find out what material is best for you contact the educated professionals at Jolly Plumbing. Their 30 years of experience can easily evaluate what pipe is best for your project. Call us today to learn more about which material is the best for your particular needs.

Leaky Pipe Repair 

Leaking pipes are one of the most frustrating things you can deal with as a homeowner. From the spraying or dripping water to the initial panic you feel when you see water inside the house, it can be a lot to take in. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to mitigate the threat of a leaky pipe until a plumber is able to repair it properly.

You won’t be able to effectively problem-solve if you are stressed, so be sure to take a deep breath and remain calm. The next step is to identify the shut-off valve for the leaky pipe. For a fixture like a sink or a toilet, the shut-off valve will likely be located directly behind the fixture. For other types of pipes, you may have to go as far as shutting off the main water line. Once you stop the flow of water, you will have a chance to carefully check the pipes surrounding the leak and locate exactly where it is.

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Temporary Repairs For Leaking Pipes

Locate the leak and determine if it is a pinhole leak or a pipe split. Depending on the type and severity of the leak it will warrant different temporary repairs. The repairs discussed below are simply meant to restore the use of water to the affected area. They are not intended to be left longer than a couple of days, and you should contact a plumber right away after you have discovered a leak.

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If the leak is a pinhole then take a sharpened pencil and place the pointed end in the hole. From there break the pencil off so the tip is still in the hole, then wrap the entire area in black electrical tape. For good measure smear some plumbers epoxy putty over the electrical tape and allow it to set for whatever time is specified in the packaging. Afterward, you should be able to turn the water back on until a plumber can come and do the repair properly.

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If the leak is coming from a larger pinhole or pipe split then you can take a piece of rubber or a short length of garden hose and wrap it around the affected area. From there take two clamps and tighten them down on either side of the piece of rubber. If you don’t feel as if this is secure enough, you can always wrap the area in electrical tape for good measure.

Frozen Pipe Repair 

A frozen pipe is not a single, isolated issue.  In fact, it can cause multiple home maintenance catastrophes if left unchecked.  Even a one-eighth of an inch crack in a pipe can release upwards of 250 gallons of water every day.  This amount of water goes beyond flooding by also causing tremendous structural damage and the growth of mold.
 
Pipes can freeze in both cold and warm climates, as over a quarter of a million families are affected by frozen pipes each winter. There are even more severe cases in Colorado Springs, since we live in such a cold climate in the winter time. January hits and the ground freezes—this is a commonly known situation for homeowners and businesses in the area.  This US statistic is far too large, since the damage of a frozen pipe can often be prevented.

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Signs of Frozen Pipes

Here are 4 common signs of frozen pipes that you can look out for in your home.

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It’s Freezing Outside

Your pipes will only freeze if it is cold enough outdoors.  When the temperature begins to hover around or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, you should start preventative action to keep them from freezing.

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The Pipes Exhibit Frost

If you have visual access to the pipe, check for accumulated frost around the pipe.  Pipes that can commonly be seen are those in your kitchen or bathroom areas.  If you suspect the pipe may be frozen, check the pipe before turning on the faucet.

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Water Isn’t Coming Out

If you turn the faucet on and nothing happens, you may have a frozen pipe.  Additionally, if the faucet only releases a small trickle of water, the pipes leading to the faulty sink may be frozen.

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Unusual Odors

Finally, if the faucet or drain is releasing strange smells, the pipe is likely partially or completely blocked.  When pipes are blocked, the only way for smells to come back up is through the faucet or drain.  This causes your smaller rooms like restrooms to be filled with an unpleasant odor.

What to do if You Suspect a Frozen Pipe

If you notice any of these signs, act quickly.  When a water emergency like a leaking pipe occurs, you need a professional plumbing service to fully handle the situation.  From small annoyances to large-scale issues, water leaks are a common problem that many homeowners in Colorado deal with annually.  During winter weather conditions, the water in your pipes may freeze, this may cause burst pipes.  This causes blockage and can potentially crack your pipe.  As the ice thaws, you may start to notice changes in water flow or leaking in certain areas of your home. 
 
We have the tools and equipment necessary to detect the location of the leak in your home.  We have an experienced team of trained professionals who know exactly how to patch the leak as quickly as possible to stop the unwanted flow of water.  Finding the leak early saves you from spending money on costly structural repairs to your home due to water damage and can also help your pipes last longer.
 
Your home contains hundreds of feet of water pipes running throughout every room.  If anyone of those pipes starts leaking, it could lead to costly water waste and expensive repairs.  If you suspect a leak or a burst pipe in your home, do not wait to call a professional. 

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Common Frozen Pipe FAQS

A blast of cold winter weather means more than just getting an extra blanket to huddle under to keep warm. It’s essential to think about your pipes during frigid temperatures. Ignoring your pipes during these types of weather events means your setting yourself up for frozen and burst pipes. However, it doesn’t have to be that way, as there are some things you can do to protect your pipes proactively.
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One of the first things you should do is open any cabinets where your pipes happen to be, such as under the kitchen and bathroom sinks. By opening them up, you’re allowing the heat from the house to protect these pipes better. Another action you can take is to let the water slowly run out of the tap. Sure, you will be wasting some water, but allowing it to flow helps to prevent freezing. Then, of course, you could always put a bucket in the sink and use that water for watering your plants and other purposes.

Did you get caught off guard, and your pipe froze? You’ll often notice when the water doesn’t flow or your toilet doesn’t fill up. Don’t panic. You’ll want to shut off the water either to that particular area or to the whole home if necessary. Taking this action is a good idea because it helps relieve some pressure. It also ensures that if your frozen pipe bursts, only the water currently in the pipe will be released in your home rather than a continual amount of water flowing out of the broken pipe. You’ll also want to turn on your faucets to help drain the water from the area.
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Once the water to the area of the home you suspect the frozen pipe to be in is shut off, you’ll want to locate the frozen area. The good news is that the frozen water can act as a plug keeping the water in the pipe. Next, you’ll want to gather some towels, buckets, and a heat source like a blow dryer or hot water. Don’t use a propane torch, as that can be a fire hazard. Start on the edges of the frozen area and work your way toward the middle of the frozen section. You can also warm the room by using a space heater.

It’s freezing outside, and you’ve shuffled to the kitchen to make some hot chocolate to enjoy with a good book, but when you turn the tap, no water comes out. There’s a good chance you have a frozen pipe, so what’s next? Frozen water pipes can be a real problem as they can turn into, at worst, burst pipes. Even pipes that are safely dethawed can still pose a problem if leaks occur due to the freezing. First, you’ll want to find the section of pipe that’s frozen. That can be a tricky process since you may not have access to all of the pipes. Next, you’ll want to inspect the areas of pipe that you can see visibly. Some ways to identify where the frozen section is located is by seeing frost on the pipe, a noticeable bulge, or other damage to the pipe. You can also go about feeling the pipe as the frozen section will feel ice cold to the touch.

Polybutylene Pipe Repair

Polybutylene pipe is probably not a product you are going to hear about from your local Colorado Springs plumber, but back in the ’80s and early ’90s, it was used extensively as an alternative to copper pipes which were much more expensive. This type of gray plumbing material quickly gained a reputation for rupturing and not responding well to water pressure over time which prompted the transition to other materials like PVC and PEX. Unfortunately, there are still many homes and trailers in Colorado that have Polybutylene pipes installed.

What is Polybutylene Plumbing?

Polybutylene is a plastic resin that was created using a series of chemicals in the 1970s. Originally the inexpensive resin material was touted as the material that would eventually replace copper pipes in every home. But as the years went on and local plumbers responded to more and more house calls in which faulty Polybutylene plumbing was the culprit, opinions quickly changed from optimism to disdain.

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How to Replace Polybutylene Pipes in your Colorado Springs Home

If you have decided to replace the entire plumbing system at once, it will ultimately be a better choice in the long term. The reason is all Polybutylene plumbing has been shown to fail over time, and it is better to be proactive and transition to something else before you are dealing with a ruptured pipe or even flooding.

For larger repairs that go beyond pinhole leaks, whole sections of pipe will need to be replaced. This is a great option if you don’t have the funds to get the plumbing system replaced all at once. With the use of push-on couplings, your Colorado Springs plumber near you will essentially combine the existing Polybutylene pipe with newer material such as copper or PEX. Though not a permanent solution, this will buy the homeowner time and get the plumbing system back into working order.

Pinhole leaks can be repaired by using what are called push-fit fittings. These fittings are incredibly strong and are designed to go over the top of an existing pipe. For an outdated material like Polybutylene, push-fit fittings are the only option to repair pinhole leaks.

Common Polybutylene Pipe Replacement FAQS

Polybutylene pipes were used starting back in the 1970s and up until the 1990s when it was found that these pipes weren’t holding up as expected. The different chemicals that are put into the water supply, such as chlorine and fluoride, are safe for our consumption but, over time, weaken the materials in polybutylene pipes. That means that these pipes are often an accident waiting to happen when they aren’t replaced in a timely fashion.
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It takes about 10 to 15 years for these types of pipes to deteriorate. If your pipes are polybutylene and older than 10 to 15 years, you may be enjoying the borrowed time before something terrible happens. It can be an excellent idea to have a professional Colorado Springs plumber inspect your lines and get an idea of the best way to go around having them replaced. Waiting too long for replacement may result in a huge mess to clean up. Depending on where the pipes burst, it could not only mean a lot of water damage, but you may not have water in your home until the repairs and replacement can be made. It’s often the best idea to handle your pipe replacement before it gets to that point.

A person hearing that polybutylene pipes need to be replaced in their home even when they aren’t leaking may worry that polybutylene pipes aren’t safe. In fact, the material is safe when it comes to drinking water. The pipes have no safety issues for your family’s health and well-being so it is not a plumbing emergency. However, the fact that the material these pipes are made out of fails easily over a much shorter period of time than other materials makes it necessary to have it removed. Slow leaks, water damage, mold growth, and even more significant incidents when pipes burst can all lead to unsafe conditions in your home that are expensive to fix. It’s a more economical choice to have your old polybutylene pipes replaced. Contact us today for Colorado Springs polybutylene pipe repair and replacement.

Are you starting to wonder if the pipes in your home are polybutylene? You can use some clues to identify polybutylene pipes in your home. You’ll want to start in places where the lines are exposed and easy to see. You may want to check areas in your basement, under your sinks, by the water meter, or by your water shut-off valves.
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Once you’ve found some pipes to investigate, here are some identifying features of polybutylene.
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Color: Polybutylene is often gray, blue, or black in color. Most commonly, it’s gray.
Markings: Typically, you’ll see a marking of PB2110 on polybutylene pipes.
Size: Pipes of this material are usually between ½” to 1” in diameter.
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Polybutylene is not meant to be used for vent piping, drains, or waste, so even if these pipes that are visible aren’t polybutylene, there is still a chance that you may have these types of lines in your home. One of the issues with identifying the types of pipes in your home is that in most of your home, the pipes are hidden in the walls or covered by dirt and dust from over the years.