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When it comes to plumbing installation and repairs, the piping you have in your home can have a major influence on how much you pay, as well as how often you can expect to perform maintenance and have a professional plumber make adjustments. Keep reading to learn more about the five most common types of plumbing pipe and what you can expect in terms of their advantages and disadvantages.
PVC Pipe
PVC pipe has many residential and commercial uses, but it’s often used in plumbing systems, particularly for vent pipes, drainpipes and pipes that carry waste away from homes and businesses. One of the main advantages of using PVC pipe in a plumbing system is that it is relatively lightweight, but it also offers a high level of chemical resistance, making it more durable than some materials. PVC is also more flexible than copper or steel, making it a good choice if you hire a plumber to update the plumbing system in an older home. The flexibility of the PVC may help you avoid having to knock out walls or make other expensive modifications just to upgrade your plumbing. Additionally, water flows quickly through PVC pipes, which may help prevent blockages and ensure you have adequate water pressure.
Galvanized Pipe
Galvanized pipe was used in older homes, so you may come across it if you buy a fixer-upper or set up a business in an older commercial building. Although galvanized pipe is no longer used in new plumbing systems, it did have several advantages, including a high level of durability and low maintenance costs. Despite these advantages, galvanized pipes have a tendency to rust; in some cases, mineral buildup can also cost costly blockages. If you recently purchased an older home with galvanized pipes, contact a plumber to find out if you can hold off on updating your plumbing system or if the pipes need to be replaced right away.
PEX Pipe
PEX stands for polyethylene cross-linked pipe, and it’s typically used for water lines. PEX material is extremely flexible, making it a good choice if you want to update the plumbing system in an older building. If you were using PVC pipe to update an older system, you’d probably have to install several elbow fittings. That’s not the case with PEX due to its flexibility. It bends as much as 90 degrees, making it easy for a plumber to install water lines in tight spaces.
If you live in an area that regularly sees freezing temperatures in the winter months, PEX pipe has an added benefit. Most plumbing pipes lack flexibility, which means they’re likely to burst if the water freezes. PEX is flexible enough to expand slightly when temperatures drop, reducing the risk of winter plumbing mishaps. That doesn’t mean PEX never freezes, but the risk is much lower, which can help you avoid having to call a plumber. PEX is also ideal for plumbing systems in areas with hard water, as it doesn’t corrode as easily as other types of pipe when exposed to minerals.
Copper Pipe
When it comes to durability, a plumber would tell you that copper pipe is the gold standard in the plumbing world. Copper stands up to high levels of water pressure, which means that copper pipes last for decades with proper care and maintenance. The lifespan of copper pipe depends on several factors, including how much you use your plumbing system, the quality of your water and the climate in your area. For example, assuming everything else is equal, copper piping is likely to last longer for a married couple with no children than it is for a married couple with three children, as the larger family is likely to take more showers, do more loads of laundry and run the dishwasher more often.
Your plumber may recommend copper pipe if you live in an area known for extreme temperatures, whether you live in hot, humid Fort Lauderdale or snowy Colorado. In the winter, copper pipe is less likely to freeze than piping made out of other materials, which could save you money on maintenance and repair costs. You may also want to choose copper pipe if you’re concerned about sustainability. Copper is recyclable, and the manufacturing process produces less pollution than the processes used to make other types of piping.
The cost of copper pipe is one of its main drawbacks, although the higher price is more than made up for with the durability of copper piping. If you use well water, ask your plumber if copper pipe is a good choice for your plumbing system. The copper doesn’t hold up well to acidic conditions, which means you may start to have problems quickly if your well water has a low pH level.
ABS Pipe
ABS pipe, or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, is used for vent pipes, drains and waste. Unlike some materials, ABS pipes don’t have a rough interior, which means the flow rate should be fairly high. ABS is inexpensive, easy for a plumber to install and doesn’t erode like other types of piping. The main drawback is that it can’t be used for drinking water, limiting its use in a large plumbing system. Additionally, ABS isn’t suited for outdoor use.
CPVC Pipes
Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride pipes are a common alternative to traditional PVC pipes. They provide durability and can handle higher temperatures, due to the additional chlorination process that CPVC pipes undergo during the manufacturing process. They’re an excellent choice for hot water distribution systems and can cope with temperatures up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
Another benefit of CPVC pipes is their ability to resist chemical degradation and corrosion. They don’t rust, scale or pit and have a longer lifespan with minimal maintenance. The smooth interior also helps prevent the buildup of minerals, ensuring a steady flow of water. The lightweight construction makes them easy to install. However, CPVC pipes are more brittle than traditional PVC and may crack under freezing temperatures or extreme pressure.
Cast Iron Pipes
Cast iron is one of the most popular pipe types in plumbing. They’re widely used in sewer and drainage systems and offer outstanding durability and soundproofing. Cast iron is also able to dampen the noise made by running water. This makes them a good choice in high-rise apartments and multistory buildings.
When it comes to longevity, cast iron pipes can last for decades, often lasting over 50 years when maintained. However, while they’re one of the most durable kinds of pipes, they can be susceptible to corrosion and rust over time. This could result in leaks and reduced efficiency. They’re also one of the heavier types of pipes used in plumbing, making installation labor-intensive and costly.
How to Choose the Right Pipe Material
With so many pipe material types to choose from, it’s important to select the right one. The choice depends on several factors, including durability, intended use and budget. Here are three things to consider when choosing between different plumbing pipes.
1. Water Type and Temperature
Some types of pipe materials are better suited to cold water or hot water installations. For example, copper and CPVC pipes have excellent heat resistance and are, therefore, well-suited to hot water line applications. Cold water distribution is best served by PEX and PVC pipes. If your water supply has a high mineral content, corrosion-resistant plumbing material types such as PEX and CPVC can help prevent buildup.
2. Durability and Lifespan
The lifespan of pipes depends on the type of piping material. For example, cast iron and copper pipes can last over 50 years, while PVC pipes have an expected lifespan of around 25-40 years. If you’re looking for a long-term plumbing solution that requires minimal maintenance, choose a more durable material. While more durable pipes may have a higher upfront cost, you should save money on repairs and premature replacement.
3. Cost and Installation
Another major factor when making plumbing decisions is budget. Copper and cast iron pipes offer excellent durability but are expensive and require professional installation. PEX and PVC pipes, on the other hand, are easier to install and come with a lower price tag. A plumbing professional can advise you on different pipe materials and help you make an informed choice that improves longevity, efficiency and overall plumbing performance.
Whether you’re building a new home or looking to update the plumbing in an older building, it’s important to work with an experienced, reliable plumber for your repiping service. Hiring a professional can save you money in the long run, as a plumbing professional has the knowledge needed to assess your living environment and determine the right piping materials to use for new construction or plumbing updates. Call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain at 1-844-HOP-TO-IT to schedule a time for one of our professional plumbers to give you an estimate.
