Repiping Paarl | Whole-House Pipe Replacement

About Repiping in Paarl

Repiping means replacing all or most of the water supply pipes in a property with new, modern piping material. It is the definitive solution for homes plagued by recurring leaks, low water pressure caused by internal rust buildup, discoloured water, and pipes that have reached the end of their service life. While more disruptive than a single repair, repiping eliminates the cycle of patching failing pipes and provides reliable plumbing for decades to come.

Many homes in the Western Cape built between the 1950s and 1990s were plumbed with galvanised steel pipes, which have a practical lifespan of 30-50 years. By now, many of these pipes are severely corroded internally - rust deposits restrict water flow, reduce pressure, cause brown water at the taps, and the weakened pipe walls develop leaks with increasing frequency. If your home has galvanised pipes and you are experiencing these symptoms, repiping with copper or CPVC is the most cost-effective long-term solution.

Abacas Solution approaches repiping methodically to minimise disruption to your daily life. We plan the new pipe routes to maximise use of ceiling cavities and wall ducts, reducing the amount of wall chasing needed. Work is typically completed in 2-4 days for an average home. We replace pipe by pipe, maintaining partial water supply during the process wherever possible, and we patch and make good all access openings as part of the job.

This is one of several specialist services we offer under leaks & pipe repairs in Paarl. As part of our Paarl plumbing team, we bring over 25 years of hands-on experience to every job.

When to Call for Repiping

Call when you have had multiple pipe leaks in different parts of the house within a short period, when your water pressure has gradually declined despite no municipal issues, when your water consistently runs brown or rusty for the first few seconds, when a plumber has told you your galvanised pipes are failing, or when you are renovating and want to upgrade old plumbing while walls are open.

Our Repiping Process

1

Assessment & Planning

We inspect all accessible pipes, test water pressure at multiple points, check water quality, and map the existing pipe layout. We design the new pipe routes to use the most practical paths through the property while meeting pressure requirements.

2

Material Selection

We discuss pipe material options with you - copper for its proven durability, or CPVC for its corrosion resistance and lower cost. Each has advantages depending on your property type, budget, and water conditions. We recommend the best fit.

3

Systematic Replacement

We work through the property section by section, removing old pipes and installing new ones. We maintain partial water supply during the process wherever possible. New pipes are properly clipped, insulated where needed, and pressure tested before closing walls.

4

Final Test & Making Good

The complete new system is pressure tested, all fixtures are reconnected and tested for flow and temperature, and we patch all wall and ceiling openings. You receive a certificate confirming the new installation complies with SANS 10252.

Many homeowners in Paarl who need repiping also require burst pipes in Paarl and leaking taps & faucets. We handle everything, so you only need one call.

Safety & Compliance

Removing old galvanised pipes can release rust particles and sediment into the water system. We flush all lines thoroughly after connecting new pipes. If the old galvanised pipe connects to a lead municipal supply pipe at the boundary, we flag this for municipal replacement as lead in drinking water is a health hazard. During repiping, sections of the house may be without water for periods - we plan this in advance so you can prepare.

Repiping Cost in Paarl

Repiping costs depend on the property size, number of fixtures, and chosen pipe material. A standard 3-bedroom house repipe with CPVC typically costs R15,000-R30,000 including materials, labour, and making good. Copper repiping costs 30-50% more due to higher material costs. Larger homes, double-storey properties, or houses with complex layouts cost R25,000-R50,000. The price includes pressure testing and a compliance certificate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does repiping a house cost in Paarl?

Repiping a standard 3-bedroom house in Paarl typically costs R15,000-R30,000 using CPVC pipe, or R20,000-R45,000 using copper. The exact cost depends on the number of fixtures, accessibility of pipe routes, and how much wall opening and restoration is needed. We provide a detailed quote after surveying your property.

How long does a full house repipe take?

Most 3-bedroom homes can be repiped in 2-4 working days. Larger homes or complex layouts may take 4-5 days. We plan the work to maintain partial water supply during the process and schedule the most disruptive work when it suits you best. You will have full water restored by the end of each working day.

How do I know if my house needs repiping?

Strong indicators include: galvanised steel pipes more than 30 years old, recurring leaks in different parts of the house, rusty or brown water when taps are first opened, significantly reduced water pressure compared to years ago, and visible corrosion or green deposits on exposed pipes. If you are experiencing two or more of these symptoms, a repiping assessment makes sense.

Is CPVC or copper better for repiping?

Both are excellent choices. Copper is the traditional premium option with a 50+ year track record in South Africa. It handles high temperatures well and is recyclable. CPVC is a modern alternative that is corrosion-proof, quieter, easier to install (reducing labour costs), and performs well in our water conditions. For most residential applications in the Western Cape, CPVC offers the best value for money.