Older houses, layered plumbing

The neighborhoods surrounding downtown Fullerton include homes from the early decades of the twentieth century alongside later infill. Older houses here are more likely than postwar tracts to sit on raised foundations over a crawlspace, and many have been replumbed in pieces over the years.

That history often leaves a mix: galvanized in the crawlspace, copper in a remodeled kitchen, PEX added during a bathroom update. Before planning a repipe, identify what is actually there. Some historic properties may have additional considerations for exterior changes; check with the city before work that affects a building's exterior.

Raised foundation versus slab for a repipe

Raised foundation (crawlspace)

  • Lines can often run under the floor with access from below.
  • Fewer wall openings may be needed.
  • Crawlspace conditions, clearance and pests affect the work.
  • Old pipe is easier to see and remove.

Slab

  • Lines usually rerouted through the attic.
  • More openings at the top of walls.
  • Old under-slab pipe is abandoned.
  • Avoids breaking concrete.

Older-home repipe considerations

  • Find out whether the crawlspace has safe access for the crew.
  • Note plaster walls, which patch differently from drywall.
  • Ask about any galvanized left between remodeled areas.
  • Ask whether the main line from the meter is galvanized.
  • Check electrical grounding if metal water pipe is removed.

Contacts

TopicWho
Water service and meterCity of Fullerton water utility
Permits, historic or exterior questionsCity of Fullerton
Gas service or a gas smellSoCalGas; if you smell gas, leave and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside
License lookupcslb.ca.gov

Ask your plumber

  1. Can you route the new lines through the crawlspace?
  2. How will you patch plaster walls?
  3. What old pipe will be removed versus abandoned?
  4. Will any galvanized remain?
Map of Downtown Fullerton. It shows an area, not an office or a job site.

Common questions

Is a repipe easier in a raised-foundation home?

Often, because the crawlspace gives access to run lines without as many wall openings.

Do plaster walls change the job?

Plaster can crack around openings and patches differently than drywall. Ask how it will be handled.

Are there special rules for historic homes?

Possibly for exterior changes. Check with the City of Fullerton.

General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.