The term re-piping is defined as a “complete re-plumbing of the entire existing fresh water supply system serving a structure or property”. The complete replacement of the existing plumbing system begins at the main shut off to the building, and extends via hot and cold tubing to each fixture and appliance. Complete re-piping includes the following new items: water main shut off valves, hot and cold supply lines, supply line shut off on the water heater, shutoffs at each fixture, washing machine box with new valves, ice maker box, ice maker line, hose bibs with vacuum breakers, and hammer arrestors on appliance supply lines. In all parts of Florida, a permit and a Notice of Commencement are required for repiping projects.

Re-routing of the new water lines is usually done from the main water service line shut off, up thru the attic, and down each interior wall to reach each fixture or appliance. There usually involves some minor sheetrock repairs where access is necessary to make connections and route piping. Typical sheetrock access points are behind shower valves, behind toilet tanks, and inside cabinets under sinks. In some cases where fixtures are mounted on outside concrete block walls, piping may be run outside and then back into the building. When completed, the plumbing system is subject to testing, per code, with air pressure. This insures the new system is leak free before loading with pressurized water once again.

CPVC piping is plastic tubing utilizing plastic connections and glued joints. When exposed to the elements, it is painted to protect it from UV rays and deterioration.

PEX tubing is a cross – linked polyethylene with special links and formations between the molecules that create tubing more resistant to temperature extremes, chemical attack, and deformations. For over 40 years this tubing has been used in Europe for plumbing, hot water heating, and other heating and cooling systems. Its benefits include less fixtures overall, and over head. Although more expensive per foot than CPVC, its flexibility and durability reduce labor time and quantity of fittings.

The two most common repiping materials used are PEX Tubing and CPVC. Copper piping can be used as well, however; Master Plumbers does not recommend repiping with copper. Repiping with copper is cost prohibitive, labor intensive, and presents hazards when soldering in confined spaces.

Detecting leaks in fresh water plumbing systems requires a combination of the proper equipment, experience, and determination. Sometimes leaks are easy to find and some leaks can be more difficult to find. Pinhole leaks not only waste money and water, they can cause damage to walls, floors, and electrical systems. Leaking pipes also create an environment for mold and mildew to thrive within a home. Another issue recently is the possible adverse action by insurance companies raising premiums or issuing non-renewal notices to homeowners with leaking pipes.

Florida is not alone when it comes to leaking water pipes. There are many other areas in the country that are experiencing the same problems. Pinhole leaks in copper plumbing are an extreme type of pitting corrosion. The specific causes for pinhole leaks have yet to be conclusively determined.

The suspected causes include:

• Changes in water chemistry and chemical water compositions
• Addition of chemicals during the water treatment process
• Substandard piping, poor workmanship
• “Aggressive water”, which includes factors such as pH content, presence of chlorides, metal ions, and dissolved gases in the water
• Exterior factors such electrolysis

According to the most recent data, the majority of leaks reported were in the cold water, horizontal copper tubing. In Florida, this means that most were under the concrete slab. Detecting leaks below the slab requires specialized equipment and experience. At Master Plumbers, we use high-quality ground sensor equipment, sound amplifiers, and stereo headphones to locate leaks within inches of the pinholes. For difficult or very small leaks, we sometimes pressurize the lines with air and water to make location more definitive.

When leaks are discovered, the option of repairing the leak should be considered. Slab leak repairs require the floor to be chipped or jack hammered for access to the piping. After the concrete is removed, dirt is removed from around the pipe, and a repair coupling can be used to make the repair.

Please note that in Florida, only authorized and licensed plumbing companies are able to perform repairs on plumbing. There are some leak detection companies that are not plumbers, and they are not licensed to perform the repairs. Our suggestion is to always use a leak detection company that is a licensed plumber as well.