If your Rogers home was built before 1980, there's a good chance your plumbing system is made of galvanized steel pipes. 

For decades, galvanized pipes were the standard. They're strong, durable, and were state-of-the-art plumbing material. But here's the problem: galvanized pipes have a lifespan. And if yours are nearing (or past) that lifespan, you're likely seeing the consequences now. 

Low water pressure. Discolored water. Random leaks appearing in walls. These are the telltale signs that galvanized pipes are failing—and they're incredibly common in Rogers, Bentonville, and other older NWA neighborhoods. 

Here's what every homeowner with galvanized pipes should know—and why more Rogers residents are choosing replacement before disaster strikes. 

What Are Galvanized Pipes? 

Galvanized steel pipes are made of steel coated with a protective layer of zinc. The zinc coating prevents rust, allowing the steel underneath to last longer. 

When galvanized pipes were installed (1920s-1970s), they were the best option available. They're strong, can handle high water pressure, and many lasted 50+ years. 

But "can last 50 years" doesn't mean yours will. Depends on water quality, usage, and local conditions. 

In hard-water areas like Bentonville, galvanized pipes fail faster (typically 40-50 years). In softer-water areas, they might last longer. In Rogers, with a mix of water conditions and older infrastructure, we see most galvanized pipes failing around 60-80 years after installation. 

Which means homes built in the 1950s-1970s are hitting their pipe-failure window right now. 

Why Galvanized Pipes Fail 

The zinc coating wears away. Over decades, the protective zinc layer corrodes, especially in hard-water areas. Once it's gone, the steel underneath starts rusting. 

Rust accumulates inside the pipe. As rust builds up on the interior walls, it: • Reduces water pressure (narrower pipe = slower flow)

  • Creates sediment (discolored water coming from your taps) 
  • Weakens the pipe structurally (creates holes and weak spots) 

Pinholes and leaks develop. Eventually, rust eats completely through the pipe, creating small holes (pinholes) that leak inside walls, crawlspaces, or under foundations. 

Common Signs Your Galvanized Pipes Are Failing You might notice: 

  • Low water pressure (especially hot water) 
  • Rusty or discolored water (brown/orange tint from hot taps) 
  • Water stains on ceilings or walls (sign of pinhole leaks) 
  • Musty smells or mold (from hidden water leaks) 
  • Slow drains (sediment blocking drainage) 
  • Random leaks in walls or under sinks 
  • Age: If your home is 50+ years old with original plumbing 

Bad news: Once corrosion starts, it accelerates. One pinhole today means more pinholes coming. 

PEX Pipe: The Modern Alternative 

Instead of replacing with new galvanized steel, modern plumbing uses PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) plastic pipes. 

Why PEX is better: 

  • No rust or corrosion — plastic doesn't corrode 
  • Longer lifespan — 50-100+ years (vs. 60-80 for galvanized) 
  • Better water quality — no sediment or discoloration 
  • More flexibility — easier installation, fewer fittings needed 
  • Lower pressure loss — maintains water pressure throughout the home 
  • Quieter — less noise from water flowing through pipes 
  • Less expensive than copper (alternative upgrade material) 

Drawback: PEX is plastic and looks less "premium" than copper. But functionally, it outperforms both galvanized and copper for most residential applications.

PEX vs. Copper: The Upgrade Decision 

If you're replacing galvanized pipes, you have two main options: 

PEX Pipes 

  • Typical cost: $3,500-$6,000 for typical home repiping (full system replacement) • Partial repiping: $1,500-$6,000 depending on scope 
  • Lifespan: 50-100+ years 
  • Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners wanting long-term reliability 
  • Drawback: Visible PEX in unfinished spaces looks less elegant than copper 

Copper Pipes 

  • Cost: Significantly higher than PEX with no functional advantage 
  • Lifespan: 50-70 years 
  • Best for: Homeowners prioritizing aesthetic and willing to pay premium 
  • Drawback: Much higher cost 

Our recommendation: For most Rogers homeowners, PEX is the smart choice. You get modern reliability at a fraction of copper's cost, and it will last as long as you own the home. 

Partial vs. Full Repiping: What's the Difference? 

Full repiping replaces all galvanized pipes throughout your home with PEX. Partial repiping replaces only problem areas or specific lines (like the main supply line). Partial repiping cost: $1,500 – $6,000 

Depends on scope of work. On the high end, we dig up the old galvanized pipe and replace it with sleeved PEX, giving you years and years of additional usable service life from areas that were previously problematic. 

Timeline: Most residential repiping takes 2-4 business days (depending on home size and scope) 

What's Included in Your Repiping Price 

  • Removal of old galvanized pipes 
  • Installation of new PEX throughout (full or partial, as discussed) 
  • New fixtures (kitchen sink, bathroom faucets, outdoor hose bibs)
  • All connections and fittings 
  • Testing for leaks and proper pressure 
  • Home is left clean (no patch holes in drywall, but we leave your space protected and tidy) • 1-year warranty (Ben Society gets 2 years) 

Should You Replace Your Galvanized Pipes? 

Replace NOW if: 

  • You see discolored water 
  • You have low water pressure 
  • You've noticed water stains or leaks 
  • Your home is 70+ years old 
  • You're planning to stay in your home 10+ years 

Replace SOON if: 

  • Your home is 50-70 years old with original plumbing 
  • You've had pinhole leaks before 
  • You want to avoid surprise failures 

You can wait if: 

  • Your home is under 50 years old with original plumbing 
  • You have no symptoms of failure 
  • You're planning to sell in the next 2-3 years 
  • (Though buyers may demand replacement as condition of sale) 

The Peace-of-Mind Factor 

Beyond the functional benefits, repiping gives you peace of mind. No more worrying about: • Surprise leaks in walls 

  • Rust-tinted water 
  • Low pressure during peak hours 
  • Hidden water damage

Many Rogers homeowners tell us that repiping their galvanized plumbing was one of the best investments they made—not for resale value, but for daily living comfort. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q: How do I know if my pipes are galvanized? 

A: Look at exposed pipes (basement, garage). If they're shiny gray/silver with visible seams, they're galvanized. Copper is reddish-brown. PEX is white or colored plastic. 

Q: Can I just replace the problem area? 

A: Yes, partial repiping addresses specific failing sections. If only one area shows signs, partial repiping might be sufficient. Full repiping ensures no future surprises. 

Q: How long does repiping take? 

A: 2-4 business days depending on home size and scope. We minimize disruption and leave your home clean. 

Q: Will repiping affect my water pressure? 

A: Usually improves it. PEX has better flow characteristics than corroded galvanized pipes. 

Next Steps 

If you suspect galvanized pipe issues: 

  1. Call us for a free inspection at 479-579-9976 or visit our website to book online 2. We'll assess your plumbing and identify any problem areas 
  2. We'll show you options (repair pinholes vs. full replacement vs. partial repiping) 4. We'll provide transparent pricing with no surprises 
  3. We'll handle installation, permits, and testing — you relax 

Ready for a Repiping Assessment? 

We serve Rogers, Bentonville, Fayetteville, Springdale, Lowell, Bella Vista, and Centerton. We specialize in repiping projects and guarantee on-time arrival. If we're late, we pay you. 

Call us at 479-579-9976 or visit our website to book online. 

Visit our blog at: https://www.benjaminfranklinplumbing.com/rogers/blog/