How Long Does It Take to Repipe a Whole House?
If your home's plumbing is outdated or giving you constant problems, you're probably asking yourself: how long does it take to repipe a whole house? It's a big project — but with the right plumbing company, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know, from average timelines to what affects the duration, and how White Oak Plumbing can make the process simple and stress-free.
What Is Whole-House Repiping?
Whole-house repiping is exactly what it sounds like: replacing all the water supply pipes in your home. Over time, pipes wear out due to corrosion, mineral buildup, or poor-quality materials. If you’re dealing with discolored water, low pressure, or frequent leaks, it might be time for a full replacement.
Some common signs you need repiping include:
- Rusty or yellow water
- Recurring pipe leaks
- Poor water pressure
- Older pipes made of galvanized steel or polybutylene
- Mold or water damage behind walls
Factors That Affect Repiping Time
So, how long does it take to repipe a whole house? The answer depends on several key factors:
1. Size of Your Home
Smaller homes (under 1,500 square feet) may take just 1–2 days, while larger homes (2,500+ sq ft) might require 3–5 days.
2. Type of Piping Material
PEX piping is flexible and faster to install than rigid copper pipes. If your plumber uses PEX, the job may move along more quickly.
3. Accessibility
If your pipes are located in tight crawl spaces or behind custom tilework, the process may take longer due to extra care needed during demolition and installation.
4. Local Codes and Permits
Some cities require additional inspections or permits, which can delay the start or completion of the project.
5. Occupied vs. Vacant Home
If you're living in the home during the project, work might be staged over a few more days to keep your home functional. Vacant homes allow for faster, uninterrupted progress.
Typical Repiping Timeline by Home Type
Here’s a general estimate based on the type and size of your home:
- Condo or Apartment (1 bath): 1–2 days
- Small Single-Family Home (1–2 baths): 2–3 days
- Medium Home (3–4 baths): 3–5 days
- Large Custom Home: Up to 7 days
These estimates can shift based on the complexity of your plumbing layout and materials used.
Step-by-Step Overview of the Repiping Process
Wondering what the process looks like? Here’s a breakdown of how repiping typically goes:
1. Initial Inspection and Planning
Your plumber will assess the current system, map out your plumbing layout, and determine the best materials and approach.
2. Water Shutoff and Pipe Access
Water is turned off temporarily, and access holes are made in walls or ceilings to reach existing pipes.
3. Pipe Removal and Replacement
Old pipes are removed and new ones (usually PEX or copper) are installed, carefully routed to meet building codes and ensure strong water flow.
4. Pressure Testing and Quality Check
The new system is pressure-tested for leaks and performance before patching begins.
5. Wall Repair and Cleanup
Openings are patched and cleaned, and your home is restored to normal with improved plumbing.
How to Prepare Your Home for Repiping
Make things easier for your plumbing team — and yourself — by preparing your home:
- Clear access to sinks, water heaters, and wall panels
- Protect furniture and cover valuables with plastic or sheets
- Secure pets in a separate area during the work
- Ask your plumber if you’ll need to be out of the house or without water
Most reputable companies like
White Oak Plumbing will walk you through all of this in advance.
How White Oak Plumbing Can Help You
At White Oak Plumbing, we know that whole house repiping is a big commitment. Our mission is to make it simple, affordable, and fast for homeowners across our service areas. Whether you’re replacing old galvanized pipes or switching to efficient PEX, we’ll get the job done right — usually in just 1 to 3 days.
Our experienced team handles every step, from permits to final inspection, with professionalism and care. We work cleanly and efficiently to minimize the disruption to your daily life. Plus, we offer clear pricing and honest advice with no pushy upsells — ever.
Why You Should Choose White Oak Plumbing
- Fast Turnaround: Most repipes completed in just 1–3 days
- Experienced Technicians: Fully licensed and insured professionals
- Locally Trusted: Proudly serving our community with top-rated service
- Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees or surprises
- Clean Finish: We patch walls, clean up, and leave your home better than we found it
Don’t trust your home’s plumbing to just anyone — let the team at
White Oak Plumbing show you what peace of mind looks like.
Conclusion
Still wondering how long does it take to repipe a whole house? The answer is: less time than you think — when you choose the right plumber. At White Oak Plumbing, we’ve helped countless homeowners upgrade their plumbing systems with fast, expert repiping solutions.
Ready for stress-free, leak-free living? Let’s talk. Call us now to schedule your free repipe consultation today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stay in my house during the repiping?
Yes, in most cases. We’ll coordinate water shutoffs in stages and restore service as quickly as possible to minimize inconvenience.
Will you repair the walls after the repipe?
Yes! At White Oak Plumbing, we include wall patching and cleanup as part of our repiping service, so your home looks like new.
How much does whole-house repiping cost?
Costs vary depending on home size and pipe material, but most projects range from $4,000 to $15,000. We provide accurate, upfront estimates.
Do I need a permit to repipe my house?
Yes — and don’t worry, we handle that for you. Permits ensure your repipe meets local code and passes inspection.
How do I know if I really need to repipe?
If your pipes are over 40 years old, you have recurring leaks, rusty water, or poor pressure, a whole-house repipe may be the most cost-effective solution.
