If you’re dealing with leaks, low water pressure, or old, corroded plumbing, you might be wondering—does a plumber replace pipes? The short answer is yes. At JL Wagner Plumbing & Piping, Inc., replacing pipes is one of our specialties. Whether you need a small section repaired or a complete home re-pipe, our licensed team has the tools, training, and expertise to handle it efficiently.
Pipe replacement can sound intimidating, but it’s often one of the most effective ways to improve your home’s plumbing system. Let’s take a closer look at when it’s necessary, what’s involved, and how our team can help you restore your home’s water system safely and smoothly.
When Should You Replace Your Pipes?
Pipes don’t last forever. Over time, they corrode, crack, or simply wear out. If your home’s plumbing is several decades old, you may be living with materials like galvanized steel or polybutylene, which are prone to rust, leaks, and even contamination. Replacing outdated pipes helps prevent water damage, improves pressure, and ensures your water stays clean.
Here are common signs it may be time for new pipes:
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Frequent leaks or pipe bursts
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Discolored or rusty water
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Reduced water pressure throughout the home
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Visible corrosion or flaking on exposed pipes
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Strange noises (banging or rattling) when you run water
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Plumbing older than 50 years
If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms in your St. Charles, Batavia, Geneva, Elgin, Wheaton, or nearby home, it’s worth calling JL Wagner Plumbing for an inspection.
What Types of Pipes Do Plumbers Replace?
Plumbers are trained to replace a variety of plumbing pipes, depending on your home’s age, material, and layout. At JL Wagner Plumbing, we frequently replace:
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Copper pipes: Long-lasting but can develop pinhole leaks or corrosion over time.
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Galvanized steel: Common in older homes but rusts easily and reduces water flow.
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PVC (polyvinyl chloride): Common for drain lines but not suitable for hot water.
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PEX (cross-linked polyethylene): A modern, flexible option that resists freezing and corrosion.
Choosing the right material depends on your home’s plumbing system and water quality. Our experienced team will recommend the most durable and cost-effective option for your setup.
What’s Involved in Pipe Replacement?
Replacing pipes can be as simple as fixing a single leaking section or as extensive as repiping an entire home. Either way, the process starts with a thorough inspection. We use modern diagnostic tools—like cameras and pressure testing—to locate problems accurately before any work begins.
For full replacements, our process typically includes:
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Inspecting and mapping your home’s plumbing system
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Shutting off the water and safely removing old or damaged sections
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Installing new pipes with minimal disruption to walls or floors
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Testing all new connections for pressure and leaks
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Cleaning up and restoring any affected areas
With JL Wagner Plumbing, you can trust that the work will be done neatly, safely, and up to code.
Can You Replace Pipes Yourself?
While some homeowners may feel confident handling minor repairs, replacing pipes is not a simple DIY job. It involves shutting off main water lines, handling soldering or pipe fitting, and understanding local building codes. Mistakes can lead to major water damage or failed inspections.
That’s why it’s best to leave it to professionals like JL Wagner Plumbing. We bring decades of experience and the right tools to get the job done efficiently—and we ensure your home’s plumbing remains reliable long after the job is complete.
How Long Does a Pipe Replacement Take?
The time it takes to replace pipes depends on the project’s size and complexity. Replacing one section of pipe might take just a few hours, while a full-home repiping could take several days. Our team always works quickly but carefully, minimizing downtime and disruption.
We’ll provide a detailed estimate and project timeline upfront, so you know exactly what to expect.
Why Choose JL Wagner Plumbing for Pipe Replacement?
JL Wagner Plumbing has been serving Kane and DuPage counties since 1917. We’re a fourth-generation, family-owned business with a reputation for quality, honesty, and professionalism. Whether it’s a small repair or a complete system upgrade, we bring the same care and craftsmanship to every job.
We serve St. Charles, Batavia, Geneva, Aurora, Elgin, Wheaton, Naperville, Glen Ellyn, West Chicago, and surrounding areas. If your home’s plumbing is aging or unreliable, it’s time to call in the experts.
Schedule Your Pipe Replacement Service
If you suspect your home needs new pipes, don’t wait until a leak turns into a costly repair. Call JL Wagner Plumbing today at 630-584-1181 or visit our Contact page to schedule an appointment.
Our licensed plumbers are ready to inspect your system, recommend the right solution, and get your water flowing properly again—just in time to make your home safe, efficient, and worry-free.
