A Plumber Needs to Replace 20 Feet of Copper Piping – Here’s What It Costs & Why

If you’ve been told that a plumber needs to replace 20 feet of copper piping in your home, you’re probably wondering: “How much will this cost?” and “Is it really necessary?” You’re not alone. Copper piping has long been a trusted material in U.S. homes—but like everything, it ages, corrodes, and sometimes fails. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: realistic pricing, why replacement might be urgent, and whether modern alternatives like PEX could save you money (and headaches). We’ve consulted licensed plumbers, analyzed industry data, and even crunched numbers from real repair jobs so you can make a confident, informed decision.

Why Would a Plumber Need to Replace 20 Feet of Copper Piping?

Copper piping generally lasts 50+ years—but several issues can shorten its lifespan dramatically. Here’s why a replacement might be on the table:

• Pinhole leaks: Caused by corrosion from acidic water or improper grounding of electrical systems.
• Freeze damage: In colder climates, water freezes and expands, cracking pipes.
• Kinks or physical damage: From construction work, pests, or shifting foundations.
• Outdated installation: Homes built before 1980 may use Type M copper (thinner walls), which is more prone to failure.

According to the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC), nearly 23% of emergency plumbing calls in older U.S. homes involve copper pipe leaks—many requiring 10–30 feet of replacement.

“When I see green patina or tiny moisture beads on copper, I know corrosion is active. Replacing 20 feet is often the safest, most cost-effective fix long-term,” says Marcus T., a master plumber with 18 years of experience in Chicago.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace 20 Feet of Copper Piping?

Costs vary based on location, accessibility, and labor rates—but here’s a realistic breakdown (2025 U.S. averages):

* If pipes are behind finished walls, expect drywall removal and patching—a major cost driver.

Key Insight: Labor makes up 60–75% of the total cost. If the 20 feet of pipe runs through a basement ceiling or crawl space (easily accessible), you’ll pay closer to $250. But if it’s buried in a kitchen wall behind cabinets? Budget $600+.

For more on copper’s properties and history, see Copper in Plumbing – Wikipedia.

Step-by-Step: How a Plumber Replaces 20 Feet of Copper Pipe

While DIYers may attempt small fixes, replacing 20 feet of copper is best left to professionals. Here’s the standard process:

1. Shut off water & drain lines
   The plumber turns off the main supply and opens faucets to drain residual water.
2. Cut out damaged section
   Using a tubing cutter, they remove the compromised 20-foot segment—plus a few extra inches to ensure clean, undamaged ends.
3. Measure and cut new pipe
   New Type L (thicker, more durable) copper is measured precisely. Each joint must align perfectly.
4. Clean and flux joints
   Ends are sanded and coated with flux to ensure strong solder adhesion.
5. Solder (sweat) the joints
   Using a propane torch, the plumber heats each joint and applies lead-free solder until it flows evenly into the fitting (temperature: ~350–400°C).
6. Pressure test
   Water is turned on slowly, and the system is checked for leaks at all new joints.
7. Restore access point
   If drywall was cut, it’s patched, sanded, and prepped for paint.

⚠️ Safety Note: Improper soldering can cause weak joints or fire hazards. Always verify your plumber is licensed and insured.

Copper vs. PEX: Should You Switch When Replacing 20 Feet?

Many homeowners ask: “If I’m already cutting into walls, should I switch to PEX?”

Here’s a quick comparison:

Expert Take:
“If only 20 feet need replacement and the rest of your system is copper, matching materials avoids galvanic corrosion,” advises Jennifer R., a plumbing engineer in Denver. “But if you’re doing a full re-pipe or live in a freezing climate, PEX is smarter.”

How to Avoid Future Pipe Replacements

Prevention saves thousands. Follow these tips:

• Test your water pH annually. Ideal range: 6.5–8.5. Acidic water (pH < 7) eats copper.
• Insulate exposed pipes in attics, garages, and basements.
• Install a whole-house water softener if you have hard water—mineral buildup accelerates wear.
• Check for stray electrical currents. Improper grounding can cause electrolytic corrosion.

FAQ: Common Questions About Replacing Copper Pipes

Q1: How long does it take to replace 20 feet of copper pipe?
A: Typically 2–4 hours if easily accessible. Add 1–3 hours if drywall repair is needed.

Q2: Can I just patch a small leak instead of replacing 20 feet?
A: Temporary patches (epoxy, clamps) might work for emergencies—but corrosion often spreads. Replacing the full affected run prevents repeat failures.

Q3: Is copper piping still code-compliant in the U.S.?
A: Yes. Copper (Type L or K) is approved by the International Plumbing Code (IPC) and widely used in new and existing homes.

Q4: Will my homeowner’s insurance cover copper pipe replacement?
A: Only if damage results from a sudden, covered event (e.g., burst pipe from freezing). Gradual corrosion is usually excluded.

Q5: What’s the #1 sign I need copper pipe replacement?
A: Blue-green stains around fittings or persistent low water pressure in one area—both signal internal corrosion.

Q6: Can PEX connect directly to copper?
A: Yes—using a dielectric union or brass fitting to prevent galvanic corrosion. Never connect copper and PEX directly without a transition fitting.

Conclusion

When a plumber needs to replace 20 feet of copper piping, it’s rarely just about fixing a leak—it’s about protecting your home’s plumbing integrity for decades to come. While costs range from $220 to $775, the investment prevents water damage, mold, and sky-high utility bills. Whether you stick with copper or consider PEX depends on your home’s age, climate, and long-term plans.

Pro Tip: Always get 2–3 quotes from licensed plumbers, and ask to see before-and-after photos of similar jobs. Transparency = trust.

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