Choosing Between Repair or Replacement
Choosing between repairing and replacing plumbing fixtures in your home or commercial building can feel daunting. Repair costs multiplied by repetition can be mitigated by total replacement, but replacement may not be necessary for years if repair is sufficient.
When between repair or replacement for plumbing fixtures, consider the following:
- Age of the fixture
- Type of the fixture
- Extent of the damage
- Recommendation of the plumbing professional
- Frequency of the fixture use
In most cases, it is certainly more costly to replace a plumbing fixture upfront than it is to repair it. However, if you are dealing with significant damage from flooding or deterioration due to age, a replacement will more likely save you money. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Central Oregon will always provide a thorough evaluation and honest recommendation. We typically offer solution options to accommodate a range of budgets.
Depending on which fixture is broken, age will be a determining factor. Here are some general guidelines for plumbing fixture replacement:
- Sinks made of porcelain can last up to 30 years, while acrylic sinks can last up to 50 years.
- Toilets typically last 50 years
- Bathtubs most often need to be replaced every 15 – 20 years
- Faucets have shorter lifespans. Kitchen faucets generally need to be replaced every 15 – 20 years. Bathroom faucets need replacing more frequently, every 3 – 5 years. Shower faucets should be replaced every 10 – 15 years. More frequent replacement might be necessary if you live in an area with hard water.
- Garbage disposals last anywhere from 8 – 12 years, longer if they receive routine maintenance and proper use.
- Water heaters typically need to be replaced every 10 years.
Age is not the only thing to consider when choosing between repair or replacement for plumbing fixtures in your residence or business. Other factors indicating plumbing fixture replacement is probably your best option include:
- Corrosion or cracks on the fixture
- Frequent repairs are needed to maintain the fixture
- Low water pressure from the fixture
- Constant leaks
- You want to improve water use by updating your fixtures.
It makes sense to repair your plumbing fixtures rather than replace them. Parts may break or malfunction on almost any plumbing fixture in your residential or commercial building. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Central Oregon, we offer repair and replacement services at a reasonable price, prompt scheduling, and excellent customer service.
Some reasons you might decide to hire one of our plumbing professionals to repair your fixtures include:
- Pipes with minimal damage can often be fixed with simple relining. This repair is an inexpensive solution to otherwise intact fixtures.
- Faulty fixtures may have a manufacturing defect that needs minor repairs, such as new bolts, flaps, or handles. Replacing an entire toilet does not make sense when a simple flap change fixes the problem.
- Minor leaks can often be repaired without a total replacement. Whether a simple sealant, bolt change, or tightening is needed, a Mr. Rooter Plumbing expert can determine the best option for minor leak repairs.
- Clogged or backed-up drains typically need a simple drain cleaning to remove the clog and restore the drain.
- Line realignment might be needed if you have a leaking joint. The line often becomes disconnected or loosened and needs a simple readjustment to solve the problem.
Minor fixture replacement of valves, fittings, seals, or filters often makes repairs possible. Your Mr. Rooter Plumbing professional will determine the best course of action at your estimate appointment and offer options. Replacing minor fixtures to repair the entire fixture unit is a job best left up to the professionals. We offer reasonable flat-rate prices to resolve these issues, and we guarantee customer satisfaction. Contact us today for a free estimate.
