Busted water line under slab?

Question

James Wachob · Answer

@Nikki Cummings I'll send you my plumbers info via PM

Jassem A. · Answer

I rather just use sharkbites than have to buy and use pex tools and fittings. Lowes has a mueller proline brand which is cheaper than the name brand and have worked out pretty well for me.

Michael Henry · Answer

Nikki, You should run!!! No, in all seriousness very hard to give concrete feedback with limited details or not being able see it. Would you be able to gather 3 estimates? That would help guide you some.

Thanks,

MH

Nikki Cummings · Answer

Thanks all for your thoughts and advice!

Jason Hirko · Answer

I always re-plumb with PEX - it's a lot easier to open sheetrock walls than it is concrete foundation. And while I wouldn't have a problem using shark bite fittings (ever try to take one of those back off?) behind drywall, the PEX installation tool from Milwaukee is like $300 and super quick and easy, and you'll make that up on your first project with it buying $2 PEX fittings instead of $10 shark bites. But keep in mind, when you are running PEX, you need significantly less fittings than if you were doing PVC or copper since it has so much flex to it.

Rick Wang · Answer

I should have probably clarified; there are a lot of municipalities that have certain oddball things in their area. Some follow national code, some add their own stuff. Some keep old stuff. Generally, your local plumber is the guy with that info handy in their brain, and will do repairs to meet code regulations.

Jassem A. · Answer

If you run the lines on top of the drywall then it will be a much quicker job but some inspectors might frown on it

Rick Wang · Answer

Please don't use PEX if it isn't code in your area. And even if it is, shark bites for fittings inside walls isn't preferable. After a few connections, the crimp rings are cheaper, and theoretically more reliable.

You are also supposed to use nail plates through the joists/studs where your pex and romex are.

Ask me how many Ive seen done this way. (it ain't that many)

Jassem A. · Answer

It will be easier to run new water lines above grade. Shouldn't cost that much especially if the lines are run along the interior walls. You could even do it yourself with pex fittings or shark bites. I would try and determine where the main water line enters the home and start the run at that point. Based on your description there may just be a leak near the sink that is above grade.

Busted water line under slab?

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