When it comes to home plumbing, selecting the ideal pipe is critical. There are various options available, from galvanized steel to cast iron.
When selecting a pipe, the material used can often determine its performance and lifespan. Some materials are better suited to certain tasks or projects than others; making installation simpler as well.
Copper Pipe
Copper pipe is a popular choice for plumbing projects due to its strength, flexibility and durability. Furthermore, copper pipe requires little upkeep – ideal for homeowners who want to minimize repairs and routine upkeep tasks.
Additionally, it’s an ideal option for homeowners looking to make their home more energy-efficient. Running water at the lowest temperature possible helps cut back on energy bills by saving money on heating and cooling expenses.
Copper is a safe and healthy choice for interior plumbing, provided it’s not exposed to pressure or used in areas with low pH water. To determine its pH level, have your water tested and add acid neutralizers if necessary.
PEX Pipe
PEX is an incredibly versatile and user-friendly material for long pipe runs. It’s bendable, able to turn 90-degree curves without needing elbow fittings – a feature many new home construction and existing home contractors find desirable.
Flexible material like foam insulation is also capable of expanding in cold temperatures, making it less vulnerable to burst. For homeowners living in cold climates who have foam insulation surrounding their pipes, this can be an especially helpful feature.
PEX piping connections are much simpler than copper and PVC; no soldering or glue is necessary. Plumbers simply connect the PEX pipes using compression (crimp) fittings or expansion fittings.
PEX plumbing is simpler to install, saving plumbers or contractors time and money on labor costs. Furthermore, PEX pipes have greater versatility than other piping materials – for instance, it can be used in lugged, glued and foam-fringed pipes as well as non-conductive copper which helps conserve energy.
ABS Pipe
ABS pipe is a type of plastic pipe commonly used in drain-waste-vent (DWV) pipes and sewer systems, as well as electrical insulation. It also has numerous uses outside plumbing applications.
It’s an extra durable pipe that can withstand cold weather better than most types of metal pipes, but it may warp in direct sunlight if used in hot climates.
ABS pipe remains the preferred choice for drain/waste and vent pipes in homes and businesses despite its disadvantages. It’s stronger and more shock resistant than PVC, making it the better option overall.
Installing ABS pipe is simpler than PVC since there is no purple primer needed before applying a special bonding cement to connect them together. You can do this in an instant, making it a one-step process instead of two like PVC requires. However, make sure to check local plumbing codes prior to joining ABS with PVC pipes.
Galvanized Steel Pipe
Galvanized steel pipe is a type of metal tube coated with zinc to protect it from corrosion and rusting. It’s commonly used in water supply lines, but can also be employed for other plumbing applications.
To determine if your pipes have been galvanized, carefully examine them. They should have a silvery or gray hue with threads and clamps clearly visible.
Galvanized piping was once commonly used to replace lead pipes. Unfortunately, over time, rust and corrosion begin to form on the inside of these pipes.
Reduced water pressure can result from this, restricting the flow of water through your system. Eventually, this could lead to a leak or rupture in the pipe which could result in flooding and extensive property damage.