If you’ve been dealing with slow drains, bad smells, or constant clogs, you might be wondering if it’s time for a drain repipe. Most homeowners aren’t exactly sure what that means, and that’s totally normal.
What Happens During a Drain Repipe
Lori Baker
What is a Drain Repipe?
A drain repipe is when a plumber replaces all the drain pipes in your home. Unlike a regular home repipe, which focuses on the pressurized water lines (like what brings water to your sinks and showers), a drain repipe focuses on what takes the water away. These are the pipes that carry dirty water from your sinks, tubs, toilets, and appliances to your home’s main sewer line or septic tank.
Replacing these pipes can solve problems like frequent clogged drains, sewer smells, slow draining tubs or sinks, and even water damage caused by hidden leaks. If left unchecked, old drain pipes can also lead to bigger problems like mold growth, water stains, or even a full-on pipe burst. Not fun.
So let’s dive into what to expect if you need a drain repipe, how to know if it’s time, and what homeowners can do to prepare.
What to Expect During a Drain Repipe
At Spot On Plumbing, aka Your Dog’s Favorite Plumber, we like to make sure our customers know exactly what they’re signing up for. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
1. Inspection and Planning
First, our licensed Plumbers in Tulsa inspect your current drain lines. We might use cameras to see inside the pipes and find where problems are happening, like corroded lines, cracked joints, or buildup from years of use.
Then, we’ll plan out where the new pipes will go and figure out the easiest way to access the old ones, sometimes that means opening up walls, floors, or ceilings.
2. Cutting and Access
Yes, it gets a little messy. During a drain repipe, we have to cut into drywall, tile, or even concrete (depending on where your drain lines run). We do our best to keep the mess contained, but some dust and noise are just part of the process.
3. Removing Old Pipes and Installing New Ones
Once the old drain pipes are exposed, we’ll remove them and replace them with modern, high-caliber materials like PVC or ABS. These materials are way more durable and efficient than the old cast iron or galvanized steel pipes you might have now.
We’ll reconnect all drain fixtures (sinks, tubs, toilets, etc.) to the new system, make sure everything is up to code, and test it all to make sure it’s working properly.
4. Repairs and Cleanup
After the new pipes are in, we’ll patch up any walls or floors we had to open. We aim to leave your home looking as close to the way we found it as possible.
How Do You Know If You Need a Drain Repipe?
Here are some signs that it might be time for a drain repipe:
Frequent clogs even after using a plunger or drain cleaner
Bad smells coming from drains or under sinks
Slow draining in tubs, showers, or sinks
Water stains or damage on walls, ceilings, or floors
Backups in multiple plumbing fixtures
You’ve had a Busted Pipe or discovered a water leak
You’re constantly losing water and your water bill is going up for no reason
Older homes with cast iron or galvanized drain lines
If you’ve already had a home repipe but are still dealing with plumbing issues, it might be your drain lines that need help. A consultation with a licensed plumber is the best way to find out for sure.
Tips for Homeowners
A drain repipe can be a big job, so here are a few tips to make the process go smoother:
Plan Ahead
If possible, schedule your repipe when you’ll be away from home or can stay with a friend or family member for a day or two. It’s not easy to live in a construction zone, especially without fully working plumbing.
Clear Work Areas
Remove items from under sinks, in bathroom cabinets, and in any rooms where pipes run. Cover furniture and electronics to protect from dust.
Expect Water to Be Shut Off
While we’re working on the pipes, there may be times when we need to shut off the water. We’ll try to limit this to working hours, but it’s best to be prepared.
Budget for Extras
Repipe cost depends on the size of your home, how much pipe needs replacing, and what materials are used. You might also want to budget for paint touch-ups or flooring repairs after the work is done.
Summary
A drain repipe is a smart investment if your home is dealing with old or damaged pipes. It can stop water leaks, reduce the chance of a pipe burst, and fix those annoying issues like clogged drains and low water pressure. If your water meter shows you’re losing water or your high water bill doesn’t match your usage, it might be time to call in the pros.
At Spot On Plumbing, we take pride in helping Tulsa homeowners protect their property and improve their plumbing systems. If you're considering a repipe for your home, give us a call. We’ll walk you through your options and help you make the best choice for your house, your family, and your budget.
After all, we’re not just any plumber, we’re Your Dog’s Favorite Plumber.