Plumbing Repairs and Remodels
Plumbing services for Pensacola FL
From fixing everyday leaks to upgrading entire kitchens and bathrooms, S.E. Tradesmen Plumbing & Gas is your trusted partner for plumbing repairs and remodels in Pensacola. Our licensed plumbers handle everything from small fixes, like repairing faucets, toilets, and leaks, to large-scale remodels that require rerouting water lines, installing new fixtures, and ensuring your plumbing system is up to modern code.
“As a veteran-owned company, we pride ourselves on quality craftsmanship, clear communication, and solutions built to last.”
Plumbing Repairs and Remodels
Plumbing maintenance
An unfortunate reality in our industry is that all plumbing systems require maintenance and eventual replacement. The lifespan of your home’s plumbing depends on several factors- the age of the system, the materials used, the quality of installation, and even your local water quality.
Age is one of the most important indicators. No matter what material was used, every pipe has a shelf life. Between the 1970s and 2000s, many new types of water supply piping entered the market, only to later be discontinued due to failures. Several of these problematic systems, such as polybutylene, early-generation CPVC, and certain PEX brands, are still found in homes today, leaving homeowners at risk for leaks, water damage, and costly repairs.
Galvanized and Copper Pipe
Until the 1950s, most U.S. homes were built with galvanized steel pipe. While strong, these pipes had a major flaw: over time the zinc coating would break down, rust would accumulate, and water flow would be restricted. In addition, corrosion often introduced heavy metals into the water supply.
By the mid-20th century, copper piping became the preferred choice to replace galvanized steel. Known for its durability and versatility, copper typically lasts 50 to 70 years — and in many cases, even longer when properly maintained.
The biggest drawback to copper today is its rising cost, which has led to the development of more affordable alternatives like PEX. Another potential concern is water quality: homes on well water with high acidity may see copper pipes deteriorate much faster. For this reason, it’s always wise to test your water’s pH level to ensure your copper piping achieves its full lifespan.
Cross-Linked Polyethylene (PEX)
Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) has had a long and sometimes checkered history in the U.S. Early problems came less from the pipe itself and more from the fittings. Between 1996 and 2010, most fittings were made of brass, which in hard water conditions triggered a chemical reaction called dezincification. Zinc leached out of the fittings, weakening them and causing widespread leaks that led to millions of dollars in water damage across homes and even high-rises.
Certain brands of tubing also faced lawsuits. The most notable example is Nibco Dura-PEX, manufactured until 2012, which is now restricted and should be replaced immediately if found in a home.
Other challenges with PEX include permeability (chemicals from petroleum products can leach into buried PEX), UV sensitivity (sun exposure can damage pipes in as little as six months), and rodent damage (rats have been known to chew through PEX in their search for water).
Despite these concerns, modern PEX remains one of the best options for residential water supply when properly installed. With the right materials, protection, and installation by a skilled plumber, PEX systems can reliably last for decades.
Plumbing Warning Signs
You should consider a full repipe or plumbing repair if you notice any of the following in your home:
Polybutylene piping (common in homes built between the late 1970s and mid-1990s)
PEX Nibco Dura-Pex tubing (manufactured until 2012, known to fail prematurely)
PEX Zurn QPEX or similar high-zinc fittings prone to dezincification and leaks
Rust-colored water coming from your faucets
Visible corrosion or damage on your existing pipes
Low water pressure throughout the home
Slab leaks (moisture pooling on concrete foundations)
Active leaks in your water lines
If your home has any of these warning signs, it’s time to protect your investment with a permanent solution. A repipe eliminates the risk of water damage, improves water pressure, and gives you cleaner, safer water for years to come.
Repipe VS Repair
The biggest difference between a repipe and a repair is cost and scope.
A repipe is a complete replacement of your home’s water supply system. Depending on the size of your home, this can range from about $4,900 for a 1-bath home to $15,000+ for larger homes. While it’s a bigger upfront investment, it provides a permanent solution and peace of mind.
A repair, on the other hand, targets a specific problem, for example, cutting into a slab to repair a leaking pipe. Repairs can be effective for isolated issues, but if you’ve already repaired one leak and another appears, it’s a strong sign your water distribution system is failing. In the long run, repiping is usually the more affordable choice.
Low water pressure is another clue. Sometimes this can be fixed with a repair, but finding the exact restriction is time-consuming and costly. Homes with galvanized piping often suffer from rust buildup throughout the system, reducing pipe diameter and restricting water flow. In those cases, repiping is the only true fix.
Plumbing Remodels
At S.E. Tradesmen Plumbing & Gas, we don’t just repair plumbing — we also provide complete kitchen and bathroom remodeling services. With years of experience and deep industry knowledge, we deliver plumbing upgrades that are not only reliable but also enhance the look and functionality of your home.
Choosing the right fixtures matters more than most homeowners realize. For example, a toilet with a full-size integral trap may seem like a small detail, but it can prevent costly clogs and save you money down the road. Our team can guide you through fixture selection to ensure long-term performance and value.
Remodels often include additions, and many homes aren’t originally sized to handle the extra demand. An inexperienced plumber may overlook this — leading to code violations, slow drains, weak water pressure, or even sewer backups. We take the time to evaluate your home’s plumbing system, explain your options, and ensure your dream remodel is built to last.
Hours & Service Areas
- Lillian
- Elberta
- Orange Beach
- Gulf Shores
- Foley
- Daphne
- Spanish Fort
- Seminole
- Loxley
- Summersdale
- Robertsdale
Office Hours
Office hours:
Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
24/7 Emergency Services
850-738-2023
