Tearing into my 1970s bathroom and, honestly, I’m kinda stuck on the whole plumbing situation. The pipes are that old copper (maybe some galvanized in there too), and they look… well, let’s say “vintage.” I’ve read a bunch about full repipes vs just fixing what’s leaking, but it seems like everyone has a different take. Some folks say “replace it all while the walls are open,” others are like “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Thing is, my budget isn’t endless and I really don’t want to get in over my head if I don’t have to. I’m handy-ish (can sweat a joint, but not a pro), but the thought of redoing every line is a little intimidating. Also, PEX vs copper—still can’t decide. PEX seems easier but I’ve heard mixed things about long-term reliability.
Anyone been through this and regretted not going all in? Or maybe went all out and thought it was overkill? Curious if there’s a middle ground here—like, just swap out the worst runs or focus on certain spots? Would love to hear what actually worked for real people, especially if you’ve got any “wish I’d known” stories.
Been there with my 1920s place—those pipes were practically antiques. I ended up doing a “greatest hits” approach: replaced the worst sections (the ones that looked like they’d spring a leak if you stared too hard), left the rest for another day. Honestly, I wish I’d swapped out a bit more while the walls were open, but budget’s budget. PEX was way easier for me, and so far, no regrets. If you’re handy-ish, it’s not too bad, just take your time and double-check those connections.
Honestly, I wish I’d swapped out a bit more while the walls were open, but budget’s budget.
Totally get that feeling. Once those walls are closed up, you start second-guessing every old pipe you left behind. I’ve done the “just the worst bits” routine too, and yeah, it’s a gamble sometimes. But honestly, if PEX is working for you and you haven’t had issues, that’s a win. No shame in pacing it out—sometimes you just gotta work with what you’ve got.
Once those walls are closed up, you start second-guessing every old pipe you left behind.
I get that, but sometimes I wonder if we overthink it. I left some original copper in my last reno and it’s still fine years later. Is it always worth ripping everything out if there’s no sign of leaks or corrosion? Sometimes “if it ain’t broke...” really does apply.
I get where you’re coming from—sometimes it feels like we’re just making more work for ourselves, tearing out perfectly good copper. But here’s how I usually break it down when I’m flipping a place or doing a gut job:
1. Age of the pipe. If it’s original and you’re talking 40+ years, even if it looks good now, you’re rolling the dice. Copper can last a long time, but pinhole leaks can show up quick, and they’re a nightmare behind new tile.
2. Water quality. Some areas have water that eats through copper faster (high acidity, minerals, etc). If you’ve had green stains or blueish water at any point, that’s a red flag.
3. Accessibility. If you’ve got the walls open and access is easy, I lean toward replacing anything questionable. Once those walls are closed, repairs get expensive fast.
4. Budget and timeline. Sometimes it just doesn’t make sense to rip everything out if you’re on a tight budget or schedule. In those cases, at least swap out any obvious trouble spots—like joints or sections with visible corrosion.
5. Resale value/peace of mind. If you’re planning to sell soon or just don’t want callbacks from buyers down the line, new plumbing is a good selling point.
I’ve left old copper in place before too—especially if it looked solid and there were no signs of trouble after pressure testing. But I’ve also had to go back and fix leaks in spots I thought were fine... Murphy’s Law seems to love old pipes.
Bottom line: If it’s easy and affordable while the walls are open, do it now. If not, at least inspect every inch and replace anything even slightly sketchy. “If it ain’t broke” works—until it is, and then it’s a headache.
Just my two cents from too many late-night leak chases...
