Repiping FAQ’s
How do I know if I have a leak?
A leak inside a home could manifest itself by visible water damage in walls, floors or ceilings, moist damp cement floor areas or unusual warm spot in your floor. An increase in water usage may also indicate an unseen leak.
What do I do if I have a problem with my water system?
Correctly identify the type of plumbing/piping in your home. Also learn more about the re-piping process Understand that there is a difference between a plumber and a re-piping. We at Walter Anderson Plumbing have been in business for over 26 years and our specialty is “repiping”. In fact we have a division of over 30 trained and skilled experts who do nothing but pull out failing plumbing systems and replace them with new. When our plumbing professionals arrive, it’s like your doctor making a house call. These skilled craftsmen are neat, clean experienced, properly educated and drug tested. They surgically remove your old system and replace it with a brand new copper one that comes with our own “ Walt er Anderson Plumbing 20-Year Guarantee.”
What kind of system do I have?
Examine the plumbing system anywhere there is accessible plumbing in the home such as under kitchen and bathroom sinks, at the water heater, in a crawlspace or attic. Please refer to the photos section of our website for photos of the different plumbing systems.
What is polybutylene system?
Polybutylene is a form of plastic resin that was used extensively in the manufacture of water supply piping from 1978 until 1995. Due to the low cost of the material and ease of installation, polybutylene piping systems were viewed as "the pipe of the future" and marketed as “the best thing since sliced bread”. It was used as a substitute for traditional copper piping. It is most commonly used where residential construction was heavy through the 1980's and early-to-mid 90's. It has been estimated over 40,000 homes had this piping installed throughout San Diego County during that period of time.
Will polybutylene pipe fail?
While scientific evidence is scarce, it is believed that oxidants in the public water supplies, such as chlorine, react with the polybutylene piping and acetyl fittings causing them to scale and flake and become brittle. Micro-fractures result and the basic structural integrity of the system are reduced. Thus, the system becomes weak and may fail without warning causing damage to the building structure and personal property. It is believed that other factors may also contribute to the failure of polybutylene systems, such as improper installation, but it is virtually impossible to detect installation problems throughout an entire system.
I have a polybutylene plumbing system that has leaked in the past. I understand there is lawsuit settlement that may pay to replace my system. Is this true?
Two class action lawsuit settlements have settlements giving relief to qualifying homeowners. However you must qualify under specific guidelines to be eligible for these repairs. Please refer to the following web links for specific information on qualifications.
I have a polybutylene plumbing system but have not had a leak. Am I entitled to any of the settlement funds?
No, per the terms of the Settlement, the home must incur a leak to be eligible for recovery.
What is a galvanized system?
Galvanized water pipe and fittings have been used in homes and commercial building for many years. Significant numbers of problems occur as the pipe ages. Corrosion and sediment build-up are just two of the problems that occur as the piping ages. Reduced water flow, foul smelling water, rust spots in clothing and black specs in the water are all signs of a problems in a galvanized water system.
I have a copper water system. I understand this type system is the best yet my neighbors are having leaks. Can you explain this to me?
Homeowners with copper plumbing systems are not immune to problems. Although this premier system for water pipes is not immune to potential problems it is the least troublesome. Using American made copper and upgrading to type L will offer you the most dependable system. Yet variations in water PH levels and microorganisms that attack copper can produce pinhole leaks that can develop into problems. There is currently a class action suite being prepared to address this concerning issue.
How long does a replumb take?
There are several considerations in the length of a replumb. Since our company provides a turn-key product that includes drywall repairs and painting we can complete the entire project in less time than most other companies An average home will be replumbed in 2- 5 working days and an additional 3-5 working day for inspections by governing municipalities, drywall repairs and painting.
Will we have to move out during the work?
No, our replumb technicians perform this work while residence lives in the home.
Will my water be turned off?
Yes, however we will give you access to one restroom during our work hours. We will restore water service to one full bathroom and your kitchen each evening for your convenience.
Does someone need to be home during the work?
A representative over the age of 18 years must meet our crew the first day to show us around and complete a walk through inspection of your home. This will take about 15 minutes. Our crews can than make arrangement for future entrance.
If I have questions during the work, will you explain things to me?
Yes, good communication is the most important tool we have. We pride ourselves in knowing what processes we will follow and in an effort to make you happy with what we are doing we will help you understand.
Do I have to move anything out of the way?
We ask that you move any fragile pieces and personal property and all items stored under your kitchen, bathroom and laundry room sink. We carefully move and protect any other necessary belongings.
How much of my drywall is removed?
Part of our success is hiring, extensively training and retaining only the best. Our technicians know exactly where to cut. There is no guesswork. Like a surgically, we make relatively unobtrusive cuts at very strategically placed areas. That's part of our success. No need to worry! Our expert drywall technicians have mastered repair techniques. When they have finished you won’t be able to tell where we made our original cuts.
Does this work need a permit?
Yes, is critical that a permit be obtained to ensure the work meets the specific code requirements in your jurisdiction. An inspection is performed at completion of plumbing. As well, a final inspection is performed upon completion of all work.
Do you offer a warranty?
We are so confident of our workmanship that we offer 20-year warranties. That's probably more than you're used to receiving from other companies you've dealt with.
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