How Much to Replace 2 Feet of Pipe? Plumber Reddit Insights

If you’ve spotted a leak, corrosion, or damage in just a small section of your home’s plumbing—say, 2 feet of pipe—you’re probably wondering: “How much will it cost to fix this?” You’re not alone. Many homeowners turn to forums like Reddit for honest, real-world answers from people who’ve been there. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how much to replace 2 feet of pipe, based on verified data, expert insights, and actual experiences shared by Reddit users. Whether you’re weighing a DIY fix or calling a pro, you’ll leave with clarity—and confidence.

What Does It Typically Cost to Replace 2 Feet of Pipe?

Replacing just 2 feet of pipe might sound minor, but costs can vary widely depending on several factors:

• Pipe material (copper, PVC, PEX, galvanized steel)
• Location (underground, behind walls, under slab)
• Accessibility
• Labor rates in your area
• Emergency vs. scheduled service

According to HomeAdvisor (2025 data), the national average cost to replace a small section of pipe ranges from $150 to $600. But for only 2 linear feet? Most homeowners report paying between $100 and $350 when hiring a licensed plumber.

💡 Reddit user u/PlumbItRight shared: “Replaced 2 ft of copper under my sink last month. Total bill: $185—$75 for parts, $110 labor. Took 45 minutes.”

Why Do Costs Vary So Much? Key Factors Explained

1. Pipe Material Matters

Different materials come with different price tags:

⚠️ Note: If you’re replacing old galvanized pipes, many plumbers recommend upgrading to PEX or copper—even for small sections—to avoid future issues.

2. Location & Accessibility Drive Labor Costs

• Under a sink? Easy access = lower labor ($75–$150).
• Behind a tiled wall? Demo + repair = higher cost ($250–$600+).
• Under a concrete slab? Major project—could exceed $1,000 even for 2 feet.

As one Reddit thread on r/Plumbing noted:

“Don’t just pay for pipe—you’re paying for the plumber’s skill to get to it without wrecking your house.”

3. Geographic Labor Rates

Plumbers in New York City or San Francisco charge 2–3x more than those in rural Midwest towns. Always get local quotes.

What Do Real People Say on Reddit?

We analyzed dozens of threads across r/HomeImprovement, r/Plumbing, and r/DIY to find recurring themes:

• Most common cost range: $120–$300 for accessible, non-emergency jobs.
• DIY savings: Many users replaced 2 feet of PEX themselves for under $20 in materials—but only if they had tools and basic skills.
• Hidden costs: Permits (rare for small jobs), drywall repair, or water shut-off complications can add unexpected fees.

📌 Pro Tip from Reddit: “Always ask if the quote includes cleanup and disposal. Some plumbers charge extra for hauling away old pipe.”

For deeper context on plumbing systems, see Wikipedia’s overview of residential plumbing.

Should You DIY or Hire a Pro?

✅ DIY Is Feasible If:

• The pipe is easily accessible (e.g., under sink, in basement).
• You’re using PEX or PVC (no soldering needed).
• You own basic tools: pipe cutter, crimping tool (for PEX), or PVC glue.
• You’re comfortable turning off the main water supply.

Step-by-Step DIY for PEX (2 ft replacement):

1. Turn off main water supply and drain lines.
2. Cut out damaged 2-foot section with a pipe cutter.
3. Install two PEX connectors (sharkbite or crimp-style).
4. Insert new 2-foot PEX tube.
5. Turn water back on, check for leaks.
6. Total time: ~30–60 minutes. Cost: $15–$30.

❌ Call a Pro If:

• Pipe is copper and requires soldering.
• Located behind walls, ceilings, or under slab.
• You’re dealing with gas lines or main sewer lines (illegal/unwise to DIY in most states).
• You lack confidence—water damage from a bad fix can cost thousands.

🔧 Reddit wisdom: “Spent $200 on a plumber to fix 2 feet. Saved $2,000 in potential ceiling/wall damage. Worth every penny.”

How to Avoid Overpaying: 5 Smart Tips

1. Get 3 Quotes: Compare local plumbers via Angi, HomeAdvisor, or Nextdoor.
2. Ask for a Line-Item Breakdown: Separate material vs. labor costs.
3. Avoid “Flat Rate” Traps: Some companies charge the same whether it takes 20 min or 2 hours.
4. Check Licenses & Reviews: Verify through your state’s contractor board.
5. Time It Right: Avoid weekends/holidays—emergency markups can double prices.

FAQ Section

Q1: How much does it cost to replace 2 feet of copper pipe?

A: Typically $150–$350, including labor. Copper material costs $2–$8/ft, but labor dominates the bill due to soldering and safety checks.

Q2: Can I replace a small pipe section myself?

A: Yes—if it’s PEX or PVC and easily accessible. Use push-fit connectors (like SharkBite) for tool-free installation. Never DIY gas lines or pressurized main lines.

Q3: Why would a 2-foot repair cost over $500?

A: High costs usually stem from access issues (e.g., cutting into walls/floors), emergency service fees, or additional repairs (e.g., mold, drywall).

Q4: Do plumbers charge by the foot?

A: Rarely. Most charge hourly ($75–$150/hr) or a minimum service fee ($100–$200), even for small jobs. The “per foot” cost is mostly relevant for large repiping projects.

Q5: Is PEX better than copper for small repairs?

A: For most homeowners, yes. PEX is cheaper, easier to install, freeze-resistant, and doesn’t corrode. However, some municipalities restrict its use—check local codes.

Q6: What questions should I ask a plumber before hiring?

A: Ask:

• “Is your license and insurance current?”
• “Do you offer a warranty on parts and labor?”
• “Will you provide a written estimate?”
• “Are there any potential hidden costs?”

Conclusion

So, how much to replace 2 feet of pipe? For most U.S. homeowners, the realistic range is $100 to $350 when hiring a licensed plumber—less if you DIY with PEX. Reddit offers valuable real-world insights, but always balance anecdotal advice with professional standards and local regulations.

The key takeaway? Don’t ignore small leaks. A $200 repair today can prevent a $5,000 water damage disaster tomorrow.

👉 Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend on Facebook, Pinterest, or Reddit! Your share could save someone from a flooded kitchen—or an overpriced plumbing bill.

Stay dry, stay informed. 💧