Corley Designs

  • Home
  • Blog
  • Stop Guessing - Here's Exactly What it Costs to Replace Polybutylene Pipes

Stop Guessing - Here's Exactly What it Costs to Replace Polybutylene Pipes

If you're a homeowner with polybutylene plumbing, you've probably noticed issues like leaking pipes and declining water pressure. And you likely suspect those old polybutylene pipes need to be replaced before major damage occurs. But before calling a plumbing contractor, the big question is - how much will it cost? Replacing polybutylene pipes is a significant investment that requires careful planning and budgeting. With pipe replacement costs ranging from $2,500 on the low end to $15,000 or more for large homes, it pays to understand the key factors affecting your project's final price tag.

You'll learn how variables like the size of your home, pipe accessibility, choice of replacement material, and complexity of the job impact overall costs. We'll also provide tips for getting quotes from contractors and share money-saving strategies to slash your total pipe replacement costs. Read on to finally get real answers on exactly what it will cost to replace those problem polybutylene pipes for good.

What's the Average Cost to Replace Polybutylene Pipes?

Most homeowners spend between $2,500 to $4,000 to replace the polybutylene plumbing in an average single-story home. However, for larger homes with more piping, expect costs from $5,000 to $8,000. And if you have a two-story home, costs typically start around $8,000 and go up to $15,000 or more.

Why such a wide range in price? The total cost depends on several important factors:

how much to replace polybutylene pipes

We'll break down each of these variables in detail next. But first, it helps to understand exactly what work is involved in polybutylene pipe replacement so you know what you're paying for.

What Does Replacing Polybutylene Pipes Involve?

Replacing polybutylene pipes is a major plumbing project that involves:

This process takes 2-3 days for an average home. Now let's look at what impacts the price tag.

Key Factors That Determine Replacement Costs

Amount of Piping

The total lineal footage of your plumbing system is a major cost driver. Materials and labor are both calculated per linear foot. The more piping that needs to be replaced, the higher your costs will be.

For reference, here are typical lineal footage amounts:

Measure your home's lineal footage before getting quotes to understand this key cost factor.

Pipe Location and Accessibility

Where your polybutylene pipes are located impacts labor costs. If pipes are easily accessible in a basement or crawlspace, replacement is straightforward. But inaccessible pipes buried in walls or under slabs require extra work.

Some common problem areas include:

Pipes in these types of tricky locations will boost your replacement costs. Carefully examine your home to uncover any access issues.

Replacement Pipe Material

The type of new piping used also impacts your budget. While all common replacement materials are safe, prices vary significantly.

Copper: Most expensive option, $2.50-$4.50 per linear foot

PEX: Durable plastic piping, $1-$2 per linear foot

CPVC: Rigid plastic option, also $1-$2 per linear foot

Copper pipes have a reputation for quality and longevity. But PEX and CPVC piping have advanced significantly, providing a more budget-friendly choice.

Complexity of the Job

Simple, straightforward plumbing systems are cheaper to replace than complex layouts. Factors driving up costs include:

If your polybutylene pipes have lots of branches, sharp turns, or run through multiple floors, expect added costs.

Specialized Labor

In some cases, highly skilled tradespeople are needed, especially for:

Specialized plumbers or contractors charge more per hour, driving up the total replacement price. Be aware if your situation requires extra expertise.

What's the Cost per Linear Foot by Material?

Two major material costs are calculated on a per-foot basis - the pipes themselves, and joining fittings and connectors. Here are typical per-foot costs by each material type:

Copper Pipes:

PEX Piping:

CPVC Pipes:

As shown above, copper is by far the priciest option per foot due to material costs alone. This is why PEX and CPVC tend to be more budget-friendly choices for most homeowners.

Tips for Selecting a Contractor

Hiring the right plumbing contractor is critical for a smooth, quality pipe replacement project. Follow these tips:

Also verify that contractors have expertise specifically with polybutylene pipe replacement. While most plumbers can handle the job, those with more experience will likely do higher quality work.

Overview of the Polybutylene Replacement Process

Understanding what's involved in the full replacement process can help you plan the project's timeline and budget. Here are the basic steps:

1. Removal of Old Pipes

The contractor will shut off water supply lines and then remove existing polybutylene piping system. This includes connecting pipes and any damaged fittings or valves.

2. New Pipe Installation

Next, the new piping system is installed per code using the chosen material like PEX or copper. The new pipes are run from the main lines throughout your home reconnecting all plumbing fixtures and outlets.

3. Connecting Fixtures & Leak Checks

Your contractor will reconnect sinks, toilets, appliances, outdoor hose bibs, and all other plumbing fixtures to the new piping. Everything is tested for leaks before walls get closed up.

4. Cleanup of Debris

Proper cleanup of all debris from the old piping removal is critical. The area should be left clean and tidy before the crew leaves each day.

5. Final Inspection

Most municipalities require a final inspection of the work by the local building department. They confirm all permits are closed out and plumbing code requirements are met.

Save Money on Your Polybutylene Pipe Replacement Project

Don't resign yourself to thinking pipe replacement has to bust your budget. Use these smart tactics to reduce costs:

Shop Pipe Materials for Deals

Get quotes on PEX and CPVC from multiple vendors. Compare prices and look for promos on piping materials.

Consider DIY If You Have Plumbing Experience

Tackling even parts of the project yourself (like exposing pipes) reduces labor costs. But only if you have the skills.

Get Quotes from At Least 3 Contractors

Comparing multiple bids yields a wider range of cost options and more negotiating power.

Avoid Unnecessarily Complex Solutions

Keep your new system's layout simple and efficient. Custom add-ons or reconfigurations add costs.

Negotiate the Price

Politely ask if the contractor offers any discounts or can shave costs on materials. Many will lower the price to win the job.

Saving 20% or more off total replacement costs is possible when using these smart tips!

As you can see, many variables affect the cost to replace polybutylene pipes, making it impossible to give a one-size-fits-all estimate. Typical costs fall between $2,500 to $15,000, with the average homeowner spending $5,000 to $8,000 to repipe an average sized house.

The most cost-driving factors are:

The location of the pipes in your home may impact the replacement cost. If the pipes are easily accessible, the labor and material costs may be lower. However, pipes located inside walls or under floors often cost more to replace due to extra work needed.

The current condition of your pipes also affects pricing. Severely damaged pipes in poor condition often require more repairs, increasing costs. Conversely, pipes in good shape may only need partial replacement, reducing the total project price.

Copper is typically the most expensive replacement material, while plastic options like PEX and CPVC are more budget-friendly. However, the brand, quality, and exact specs of the new pipes also impact how much you'll pay.

Additionally, larger plumbing systems require more in materials and labor, resulting in a higher overall replacement cost. But smaller systems or those in condos are cheaper.

The expertise of your chosen plumbing contractor factors in as well. Those with specialized skills for tricky projects often have higher rates. Though the quality of work may justify the added expense.

Finally, the timing and location of your project plays a role. Replacing pipes in the off-season when demand is lower could yield savings. And remote areas with higher material transport costs will increase the price.

While costs vary widely based on your unique situation, you now have the key information needed to plan your budget. And with smart negotiating tactics, you may be able to reduce your total pipe replacement costs by 20% or more. So don't let fear about the price tag delay addressing your polybutylene pipe problems any longer!

↜

Cushion Your Dreams on the Padded Headboard of the Stromsburg Queen Platform Bed

10 Cubic Yards of Dirt - Everything You Need to Know for Your Next Project

↝