How PEX Pipe Can Improve Your Home and Cut Costs

When you’re working on your home, you want the highest quality and most cost-effective materials. This is particularly true when you’re re-piping your house; a poor job can cost you thousands in repair bills if there’s a leak. At Jeff’s Kitchen, Bath, & Beyond, we want our customers to have the best and most-trustworthy products. That’s why we recommend PEX pipes.

PEX is Better than Copper

Copper and PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene, are the two most common piping materials. Plumbers have been re-piping with copper since the 1960s as a replacement for other metals that might contain lead and cause lead poisoning. Although PEX has existed for decades, it has only recently seen widespread use as flexible pipe in the United States. This piping is superior to copper for several reasons, including:

  • It is cheaper. For half-inch sections, PEX costs around a third of its metal alternative.
  • It is faster to install. PEX doesn’t require special fastening, whereas a plumber must solder copper at every joint.
  • It doesn’t corrode. Acidic water can cause copper piping to degrade over time, making PEX a particularly good choice in areas with high acidity. No matter what water type you have, PEX is impervious to corrosion.
  • It is available in different colors. PEX comes in white, blue, and red pieces. This means you can easily coordinate your hot and cold lines or simply use one hue for everything to keep it hidden.
  • A plumber can run PEX in solid pieces. Copper pipe is rigid and users can only maneuver it by cutting it and placing the pieces together. PEX is flexible enough to move over obstructions in a single section.

At Jeff’s Kitchen, Bath, & Beyond, we prefer working with PEX and always recommend it, although many companies rely on CPVC, or chlorinated polyvinyl chloride. These rigid plastic pipes are much more difficult to work with, requiring splicing and elbows for proper flow around the house. When you’re ready to repipe your home with world-class plumbers and a material you can count on, call 407-968-1801 to schedule your free estimate.

Re-Piping in Orlando

THE PIPE PRICE IS RIGHT

 

Discovering that your home may need to be re-piped can be a stressful experience. You may be wondering what the cost of re-piping your house will add up to, or even what elements to look at to help you determine a good estimate. Depending on certain factors, the price of re-piping a house can range anywhere from $1,500 to $15,000. To get a better idea of how much it may cost, keep in mind a few things about your home:

  • Size- How many square feet is the home? How many bathrooms? The location and amount of fixtures in a home can determine how much material is needed and will vary the pricing.
  • Location- Where are the damaged pipes located? No matter where they are located, the whole house will need to be re-piped. Keep in mind that no matter where the pipes need replacing, there will be some damage done to the walls in order to remove the old pipes and install the new. The repair of these damage will also need to be calculated into the cost.
  • Age of Home- If your home is over 20 years old, chances are it could have copper pipe material, which has issues. In this instance, all of your piping will need to be replaced. We use BOW SuperPex which is the best material available.

MATERIALS MATTER

Another factor that goes into calculating the cost of re-piping a house, is the materials used. There are two common materials that can be used for re-piping; PEX, and CPVC.

  • PEX- a flexible plastic tubing that can often be run from the water source to the fixture in one piece is easy to install. This is our preferred material.
  • CPVC- rigid plastic pipes made of chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) is not the easiest and we are seeing more and more failures.

If your water pressure is weak or your water bill goes through the roof, it may mean you need to re-pipe. If you have any questions, or would like a free estimate of what re-piping your home might cost, call Jeff’s Kitchen, Bath, & Beyond at 407-968-1801.

What To Consider When Repiping Your Home

Thinking about repiping your home?

A home is something that is the livelihood of many families. Making sure everything is working correctly around the home is something that is not always easy. Some people may be considering getting the water pipes throughout their home replaced. The water pressure in a home is extremely important for many of the appliances throughout it.

The washing machine will take longer to wash the clothes when the washer pressure is lower because it will take longer to fill it. The dishwasher may not clean or rinse the dishes well because of the low water pressure also. Some people get frustrated when they are trying to take a shower when there is not enough water pressure too.

There are many things that can cause a home to have low water pressure. A lot of people think that it is related to the water pump or to the well that the water is being drawn from. This is not always the case though. Sometimes the pipes that are run through the home are the culprit for this.

Most of the homes now have copper water lines running throughout their home. This kind was not always used though. The older homes may have steel pipes. These can rust while copper does not. Any kind of pipes can also leak when they are exposed to extremely cold temperatures which can cause them to freeze and crack. Fittings can also leak. All of these things should be checked.

If there are constant repairs to the water lines in the home, a homeowner may want to consider have the entire home repiped with PEX pipe rather than continuously repairing the existing ones. Even though the repairs are cheaper than replacing them at the time, in the long run, it will save the homeowner money and a lot of hassles. Not only does it save on the cost of the piping but it saves them money because the rest of the home is not getting water damaged.

Do you need to repipe your Orlando area home? Call Jeff’s Kitchen, Bath and Beyond today at (407) 968-1801 and make an appointment today!

Re-pipe With Pex Pipe In Orlando

Repiping with Pex Pipe

Getting a property ready to sell typically involves cleaning, repairing minor items, and maybe some painting. However, if you live in Orlando, Florida, readying a property for sale can also mean that the property will have to be re-piped. The reason for this is that many properties built in Orlando in the early 80’s and 90’s contain polybutylene piping.

Twenty to thirty years ago, polybutylene was used in construction because it was cost effective and easy to install. The downside to polybutylene is that over time this piping will fail resulting in leakage and water damage. When it became apparent that polybutylene piping was failing, litigation ensued. As a result, properties containing this type of piping must now be re-piped in order to be sold.

There may be obvious and not so obvious signs that indicate that a property contains polybutylene piping. The piping itself is usually gray, blue, or black and has a diameter of an inch or less. Many property owners may not pay attention to the type of piping they have though. For them, the first sign of a problem is a rising water bill. Lower than normal water pressure may also indicate that a plumbing system is leaking. There may be soggy areas in the yard or higher than normal water runoff from the yard if part of the exterior system has failed. In the event of a major leak, substantial damage can occur to the interior of the property as well as to any personal items located within. Water spots on walls and ceilings and wet spots on flooring can also indicate possible problems. Furthermore, mold and mildew can also result from leakage and this can open the door for a host of health concerns as well.

For those needing to re-pipe a property that contains polybutylene, the question then becomes what product should be used to re-pipe. There are options such as copper and CPVC piping. However, the best option is Pex piping installed by a professional plumber. Pex is an abbreviation for a product known as cross-linked polyethylene.

Using Pex piping results in numerous advantages. One of the biggest is the flexibility of the piping. Greater flexibility makes Pex easy to install. The increased flexibility also results in fewer sharp turns in piping which in turn leads to better water pressure. Pex is also less expensive than alternatives such as copper. With copper theft being at an all time high, some in the scrap metal market have been known to steal copper. Since Pex is not a scrap metal, it is not very attractive to thieves. Pex is also less likely to develop the leaks than can occur with other piping systems. Finally, Pex can be used in conjunction with other piping through the use of special fittings.

Selling a property in today’s market requires making sure that the property is attractive, well-maintained, and without any system issues. For those trying to sell in the Orlando area, one system issue can be a plumbing system consisting of polybutylene piping. For property owners in this situation, professionally installed Pex piping is a great choice.

Repiping done right with Jeff’s Kitchen Bath & Beyond, call today for a FREE estimate 407-968-1801. Save $200 off your entire repipe job by mentioning the coupon below.

Orlando Repipe Coupon

Repiping Your Orlando Home With Pex Piping

The PEX piping that we use has several advantages over CPVC and copper piping. Also known as cross-linked polyethylene, PEX piping is reliable and safe.

Advantages of Using PEX Instead Of Copper

Cheaper

One of the main advantages that PEX piping has over piping made from copper is cost. In most cases, you will find that PEX piping is about a third of the cost of copper piping. For example, half-inch PEX will cost a third of the price of the same size copper piping.

However, PEX might require special tools that we need to install fittings, which can slightly offset the savings. In most situations, you can save a lot of money by choosing PEX piping over piping that is made from copper.

Faster Installation
When we install PEX piping, it’s normally much faster than installing copper. A PEX installation can be imagined as the process of installing a garden hose to a few different fixtures, which means it’s easy and fast. Regardless of the plumbing system, PEX connections are normally much easier than soldering various copper pipe connections.

No Corrosion
One of the biggest problems with copper piping is corrosion. Over time, acidic water can easily corrode copper piping. However, corrosion is a problem that simply doesn’t exist with PEX piping. Since PEX is not harmed by acidic water, it’s especially useful for areas that run on acidic water.

Advantages of Using PEX Instead Of CPVC
In terms of cost, CPVC and PEX are about the same. However, it’s very likely that PEX will still be a better option. Unlike CPVC, PEX piping does not require glue. Although this benefit is great for someone installing their own PEX, it makes our job much easier and safer.

Since PEX doesn’t require glue, we don’t have to wear a respirator or work in areas with superb ventilation. Also, if it ever freezes, PEX piping is not likely to burst. Once frozen, the chance of CPVC bursting is much more likely. PEX is also much easier to “fish” through walls because it’s very flexible. The fact that the PEX that we use is available in long lengths makes our job much easier.

How Reliable Is PEX?
In many countries, PEX has been used for decades. Many of the homes in these countries have PEX piping that is over 30 years old. Even after decades of use, the PEX piping in these homes continues to maintain strength.

The majority of PEX piping problems are caused by faulty fittings and sloppy installations. It’s not the tubing itself, but faulty installation practices that cause most of the problems that people have had with this type of piping.

Repiping done right with Jeff’s Kitchen Bath & Beyond, call today for a FREE estimate 407-968-1801. Save $200 off your entire repipe job by mentioning the coupon below.

Signs That You May Need A Repiping In Your Home

It might be time to repipe your home

Like most homeowners, you probably don’t give much thought to the pipes in your home as long as your faucets run when you turn them on and your toilets flush when you pull the levers. Modern plumbing is efficient and requires little routine maintenance, so it’s easy to forget about the network of pipes that runs throughout your home. However, failing pipes are a serious matter. Leaky pipes can cause serious damage to your home’s structure and allow the growth of dangerous mold. Unfortunately, because your pipes are concealed within your walls, problems can go undetected. Sometimes it can be hard to tell when your home needs a repiping.

Often, the first sign of trouble is an unusually large water bill. Because leaks often start small and get larger over time, compare your current water usage with last year’s bill. Unexplained increases in usage are a good indicator that you have one or more leaky or broken pipes. To be sure, make sure all of your plumbing fixtures and appliances, such as toilets, taps, washing machines and dishwashers, are not being used. Don’t forget about less obvious things such as yard sprinklers or ice makers. Then check your water meter. If the meter shows water use when you aren’t using any, you almost certainly have a leak somewhere.

In most homes, shut-off valves for each fixture or appliance are located under or behind the units. Sink valves are often found inside vanities or sink base cabinets. Shut off all the valves, then check the meter again. If the meter is not running, the problem probably lies in one of your fixtures or appliances. Contact your plumbing professional for a quick resolution. If the meter shows that water is still flowing even with all the valves shut off, you probably have a more serious plumbing problem. Your home’s pipes will likely need to be repaired or replaced.

Other signs of failing pipes include damp or stale smells that indicate the growth of mold or mildew due to moisture from leaks. Chronic leaks may leave discolored areas on walls, especially in the corners and where the walls meet ceilings or floors. Water stains often have clear edges and may show streaks of gray or black. With a gloved finger, touch suspicious stains and look for the telltale shine of moisture on the latex. Black or colored spots or patches may indicate mold or mildew growth. Often, these signs hide in places you don’t often look, such as the insides of cabinets, closets and utility rooms.

When you need a reliable plumber to repipe your home, look no further than the Repiping pros at Jeff’s Kitchen Bath & Beyond. Give us a call today for free estimate. 407-968-1801

Considerations for an Efficient Commercial Repiping

Apartment complex, condominium and commercial property owners in Orlando, FL need to plan out a repipe thoroughly and properly.

As we’re sure you are all aware, few things are more important to ease of business flow than efficiency. Efficiency means that the least time is taken for necessary tasks to be completed. Tenants in your complex, shoppers in your store, or employees in your business all need the days to flow by effortlessly in order for productivity to mount. There will be unhappiness and lag in business if problems come up which affect efficiency. Plumbing problems can happen at any time and these problems will put a huge damper on all efforts to maximize efficiency. This is why it is essential to find a local plumber who understands the idea of efficiency in order to perform the best job on the best allowable time slot, for the best price on commercial repipes available. Your plumber for the job is Jeff’s Kitchen Bath and Beyond.

Repiping can be massive challenged for complexes or businesses which rely on day flow and function of people. However, the need to repipe can come up from many instances. Especially for owners who have purchased an older property from pre-existing businesses, the plumbing in your building may be old or faulty – merely hanging on by a thread. In fact, piping may be so old it fails to pass local regulations. This can be a huge health and relation problem, not to mention a complicated one to solve if you are pressed for time. It is always best to have the plumbing inspected by a local commercial plumbing expert. Regular pipe leaks and drain clogs are good sing of some underlying issue which could warrant a repipe. Otherwise, these issues would be isolated and sporadic. Take the time to evaluate your systems as necessary to make appropriate repairs.

As stated previously, a repipe needs to be efficient especially if it is to be completed in a specific time frame while workflow continues. Only a time-tested experience plumber like Jeff’s Kitchen, Bath and Beyond know how to optimize the repipe job to give you the efficiency you need at the price you expect. We will confer with the business or property owner to ensure that a repiping will be necessary and establish a strict timeline to give you a high level of transparency without disregarding efficiency. It is best to handle the issue head on once it is discovered in order to successfully prevent sanitary health problems and more damages caused by water from leaking or bursting pipes.

Repiping is a good idea because of the lowered long term risk of plumbing problems. A commercial repipe will allow you to lower plumbing concerns on your already large priorities list. An updated plumbing system is easier to maintain, more efficient and function and will allow you peace of mind. Make sure that your current piping isn’t allowed to continue causing problems like wall and floor damage which could both present structural problems to your building and cause you to pay even more in alternative damages.

You need a plumbing expert who understands operational efficiency. You won’t find a plumber better equipped for a commercial repipe than Jeff’s Kitchen, Bath and Beyond. Call us today at (407) 968–1801 to ask about our pricing and expert service!

Everything you should know about slab leaks

Slab leaks can be a serious issue if not dealt with promptly. If left untreated, slab leaks can eventually lead to erosion of the foundation itself. Slab leaks occur when the pipes within a home structure are corroded and start to leak. Usually these pipes are placed next to critical components of the home like flooring, supports or fixtures and this leaking poses a pretty big threat to your home if it affects these key components.

It is important for one to thoroughly look for signs of a slab leak before it’s too late. One of the most common signs for a slab leak is finding water seepage through the cement foundations of the home. There may also be a slight accumulation of flooding water. These are all signs that the pipes within a slab may have been ruptured and are currently leaking water. While it may take some time for symptoms to be seen from a slab leak, once they are noticed they should be repaired as soon as possible.

There may also be more noticeable signs of a slab leak such as low water pressure within the home lines and an increase in the water utility bill. Subtle hints like this should worry you enough to ask a professional for a thorough inspection of your pipes. Plumbing leaks and damages may be extensive without you even realizing. The longer you wait, the more you will spend in utility bills – all the while the problem is worsening with time.

Typically, a slab leak repair is accomplished by using a jackhammer to chip away at the foundation area that is need of repair. Once the slab has been cracked away at, the piping within the slab may then be repaired. It may also be necessary for one to have the water pipelines re-routed. While it may cost some money to repair a slab leak, these expenses are well worth it when compared to the potential damage costs an untreated leak could lead to. It is more beneficial for one to consult with a professional contracting company that specializes in slab leak matters to receive professional service from servicemen who are trained to repair these types of leaks.

Orlando, FL’s go-to plumber for slab leaks, piping repairs and residential plumbing maintenance is Jeff’s Kitchen, Bath & Beyond. Call us (407) 968-1801 at for our supreme residential plumbing service. We offer accurate pipe inspection at competitive pricing if you think your system is having problems.

Does My House Need to be Repiped?

The plumbing fixtures in any house will gradually wear out after several years of use. Eventually the house will need to be repiped, which is a complex job that is best left to a professional plumbing company

Among the signs that homeowners need to watch out for are leaky pipes. No matter how small a leak, it will leave water stains that could gradually seep into the floor. Since most pipes are out of sight, these tiny leaks are easy to miss. A leak could mean that only the leaking pipe needs to be replaced and nothing more. An inspection by an experienced plumber may uncover other leaking pipes.

Another suspicious sign that pipes are wearing out is a rusty color in the water when the faucet is turned on. Usually the water becomes clear after a couple of seconds, but this is a sign that pipes will need to be replaced soon. If a visual inspection reveals rust on pipes even if they are functioning properly, it’s time to make plans for a repiping job.

A lack of proper water pressure usually means that pipes are worn out. If there is minimal water pressure when the faucet is completely open, this is a sure sign that pipes are in need of replacement. If someone taking a shower suddenly gets extremely hot water when a faucet is opened somewhere in the house, this is a sure sign of pipe problems that will only get worse.

Homeowners should always have all their pipes checked, particularly those that are difficult to see and reach. The best way to do this is by hiring a local plumbing contractor to do a yearly inspection. Some people may be tempted to save some money by doing this themselves, but this is a job best left to an experienced professional.

Thinking you may have a pipe leaking? do not sit around and wait! By assessing the problem quickly you can avoid unnecessary costly repairs!  Jeff’s Kitchen Bath & Beyond are your Oviedo Plumbing repiping specialist! call us today at  (407) 968-1801.