Due to our older homes and aging pipes, repiping is a common issue in our local area. With whole-home repiping in Portland, Oregon, you can prevent leaks and alleviate metallic-tasting water. At Central Air Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we can evaluate your plumbing system and help you determine if you need repiping in your Portland home.
Why Repiping Is So Common in Portland
Repiping in Portland homes is far more common than most people realize. Thanks to our mid-century housing boom, many homes have aging pipes that require replacement. This is especially true if there are galvanized or polybutylene pipes in your walls.
Portland’s Mid-Century Housing Boom and the Plumbing It Left Behind
Before the 1970s, galvanized pipes were the standard for homes in Portland. If you decide to sell your home and require a home inspection, it is almost 100% likely that your galvanized pipes will be listed as a “recommended repair” or “material defect.” If this happens, a buyer may request repair credits or ask you to repair it before completing the purchase.
Three Pipe Types Found in Portland Homes
Besides galvanized pipes, polybutylene and cast iron pipes have also traditionally been used in Portland homes. However, galvanized, cast iron, and polybutylene pipes are more likely to require pipe repairs and replacements. They can also lead to foul tastes, odd odors, low pressure, and other issues, so it’s important to get your home repiped if you currently have any of these pipe materials present.
6 Warning Signs Your Portland Home May Need Repiping
As a local homeowner, there are a few common signs you can watch out for that indicate you may need a water pipe replacement in your Portland home.
1. Low Water Pressure Throughout the Entire House
Low water pressure can occur if there is significant scaling in your home’s pipes or a major leak.
2. Discolored or Rusty-Looking Water at the Tap
If your galvanized pipes are corroded, you’ll often notice water that looks slightly yellow, brown, or red.
3. Frequent Leaks Even After Repeated Repairs
When it’s time to replace pipes in a Portland house, you’ll often notice more frequent leaks. Multiple leaks after repairs mean that your entire system is likely compromised.
4. Visible Corrosion or Orange Staining on Exposed Pipes
If you notice flaking, rust, or staining on exposed pipes, you can bet that the rest of your pipes are also corroded.
5. An Unexplained Spike in Your Monthly Water Bill
When your water bill jumps for no obvious reason, you likely have a leak somewhere in your system.
6. Banging or Clanking Pipes
These noises are likely caused by a water hammer effect. Your system may have excess pressure, trapped air, or loose pipes.
Three Pipe Types in Portland Homes and What They Mean
There are three main types of pipes found in our area. The kind you have will determine when and how you replace pipes in your Portland house.
Galvanized Steel: Portland’s Pre-1970s Standard
Before the 1970s, galvanized steel was the standard in Portland homes. If you were to cut open one of these pipes, you would instantly see why they cause low water pressure. Over the decades, a 3/4-inch pipe will build up a thick, orange-brown layer of corrosion, reducing the pipe’s passage to a tiny hole the size of a pencil. This crumbly rust isn’t going to just disappear on its own, which is why it’s so important to get a full pipe replacement in Portland instead of just doing a temporary repair job.
Polybutylene Pipe: The 1970s-1980s Problem Child
Between about 1978 and 1995, builders frequently used polybutylene pipe in Portland, Oregon. You can tell if you have this type of pipe because it will typically look like gray or black plastic, although it is occasionally blue or white. The pipe will be about 1/2 inch or 3/4 inch in diameter. In most cases, it will also have “Quest” or “PB” stamped on the pipe body.
With this pipe, leaks don’t occur in the middle. Instead, it commonly leaks at fittings and couplings inside of your walls or crawlspaces. Over time, this slow, hidden moisture can result in significant damage. Unfortunately, many homeowners in Lake Oswego, Beaverton, and SW Portland have this type of pipe and don’t realize it.
Copper and PEX: What Modern Repiping Looks Like
When you get whole-home repiping in Portland, Oregon, the new pipes will typically be made of copper and PEX.
- Copper Pipes: Copper is a traditional option that is extremely effective outdoors, although the upfront cost is generally higher.
- PEX Pipes: In comparison, PEX repiping in Portland is relatively inexpensive and quite durable. PEX is more flexible than copper, which is why it’s commonly used for repiping older homes.
What Does Whole-Home Repiping Involve?
When it comes to plumber repiping in Portland, you can expect our technicians to work through the following process.
Step 1: The Inspection and Assessment
Before repiping your Portland home, we’ll start by doing a thorough inspection to determine the extent of the problem. We can determine where leaks are occurring and where pressure problems exist. Then, we can select the appropriate material for the job and schedule your repiping services.
Step 2: The Repiping Work: What Happens to Your Walls
Our plumbers will make sure to protect your furniture and belongings before we begin our work. We use strategic small access holes at key junctions to thread new pipes, so only a small part of your drywall has to be disturbed in any way.
Step 3: Permits and Final Inspection
Before sealing the walls, we’ll pressure-test the system for leaks. Portland and Clackamas County permit inspections will also need to be wrapped up before we can patch your walls and clean up the work site.
How Long Does Repiping Take?
The size and complexity of the project will impact how long it takes to complete. In general, you can expect the repiping project to last between two days and one week.
What Happens to Your Water Service During the Job?
Until the final changeover, water can continue to run through your old system. We only need to switch off your water service for a few hours when the actual changeover takes place.
How Much Does Repiping Cost in Portland?
The repiping cost in Portland in 2026 will likely be between $1,500 and $15,000. However, the average tends to be around $7,500.
Factors That Affect the Final Price
The cost of your repiping project depends on a few factors.
- Materials
- Labor costs
- Home size
- Complexity
- Permit and inspection requirements
The Cost of Delaying Repiping
While paying for repiping can add up, the cost of not repiping is much higher. If you’re dealing with unexpected plumbing emergencies like burst pipes and leaks, the water damage and mold remediation can easily cost thousands of dollars.
PEX vs. Copper: Which Is Better for a Portland Home?
Our experienced plumbers can help you decide whether copper vs. PEX repiping in Portland is right for you. In most cases, the key factor is how these pipes will be used because both pipe materials work extremely well. Copper is inflexible, so it is better for new construction. However, its strong, UV-resistant design also means it’s great for outdoor installations.
In comparison, PEX is incredibly flexible. It can be snaked through existing walls, making it ideal for older homes. It is also more affordable, which is a major reason why it’s a popular choice for Portland homes.
How to Choose a Portland Repiping Plumber
When looking for a plumber, it’s important to find someone who has the right level of experience. A good plumber will also come with positive testimonials. Because a reputable plumber delivers high-quality craftsmanship, they’ll be happy to provide a satisfaction guarantee. Additionally, licensed plumbers will also have a license through the Oregon CCB.
Oregon CCB License and Permit-Pulling Requirements
As a homeowner, you can verify your contractor’s license through the Oregon CCB lookup tool. By working with a licensed contractor, you can be confident about the quality of the work and about fulfilling your permit requirements. Your contractor can also assist with permitting your plumbing repairs and replacements in Portland.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my pipes are galvanized or copper?
If you are unsure what type of pipe you have, try using a magnet. Unlike copper, galvanized pipes are magnetic. Galvanized pipes are also a gray color, while copper is the same color as a penny.
Does repiping increase home value in Portland?
By carrying out whole-home repiping in Portland, Oregon, you can potentially increase your home’s value. Many buyers prioritize move-in ready homes, so they’re willing to pay slightly more. Additionally, the potential buyer may require you to repipe or provide repair credits before they purchase the home if your pipes are made of galvanized steel.
Will my homeowner’s insurance cover pipe failure?
A sudden or accidental disaster will normally be covered by homeowner’s insurance. For example, the damage from burst pipes is generally covered. Neglected routine plumbing maintenance, plumbing repairs, and backed-up sewage lines are generally not covered. While the insurance might pay for damage if your pipes suddenly fail, they won’t pay for the pipe repair itself.
Protect the Integrity of Your Plumbing System
If your Portland home is showing signs of aging pipes, the best time to get an assessment is before an emergency happens. When it is time to replace pipes in your Portland house, our licensed Portland plumbers offer honest evaluations with upfront pricing and no-pressure recommendations. Schedule your plumbing inspection with Central Air Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today.
