Why do this before anyone visits
Every repipe recommendation starts with one fact: what the supply pipe is made of today. In many Fullerton homes the answer is a mix, because earlier owners replaced a leaking section here and a water heater connection there. A plumber will check, but showing up with a filled-in sheet means a faster, more specific conversation and makes it harder for anyone to overstate or understate the problem.
You do not need tools beyond a fridge magnet, a flashlight and your phone camera. Do not open walls or disconnect anything. Look only at pipe that is already exposed.
How to tell materials apart
| Material | Color | Joints | Magnet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galvanized steel | Dull gray or painted | Threaded fittings | Sticks |
| Copper | Reddish brown, may be green-crusted | Smooth soldered or pressed fittings | Does not stick |
| PEX | Red, blue or white flexible tubing | Rings or sleeves at fittings | Does not stick |
| CPVC or other plastic | Cream or off-white rigid pipe | Glued fittings | Does not stick |
Locations to check and record
For each, write the material and take a photo.
- Main line where water enters the house, often near a front hose bib.
- Pipes on top of the water heater, both inlet and outlet.
- Under the kitchen sink, behind the shutoff valves.
- Under each bathroom sink.
- Behind each toilet.
- Washing machine hookups.
- Outside hose bibs on every side of the house.
- Any pipe visible in the garage, attic or crawlspace.
Filling in the sheet
- Write the location.Use plain names like Hall bath sink or Garage water heater.
- Test with the magnet.Hold it to the pipe just past the valve, not on the valve itself, which may be brass.
- Note the joints.Threaded, soldered, crimped or glued.
- Note condition.Crust, green staining, rust or damp marks.
- Photograph.One wide shot and one close-up per location.
Reading your results
- IfGalvanized at most locationsA whole-house repipe is likely to come up. Read the galvanized pipe guide before quotes.
- IfCopper everywhere but galvanized at the main or heaterAsk about replacing just those sections and whether the copper is in good shape.
- IfCopper throughout with repeat leaksBring your leak log; the pattern will drive the decision.
- IfMostly PEX or newer copperA repipe may already have been done. Ask a plumber to confirm before planning another.
Common questions
What if I cannot see any pipe?
Check the water heater and the outside hose bibs first. If none is visible, note that and let the plumber confirm.
Is brass a pipe material?
Brass is common for valves and fittings. Test the pipe a few inches away from the valve.
Should I hand this sheet to every plumber?
Yes. Giving everyone the same information makes their quotes easier to compare.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.