Different types of plumbing pipes are used in a house for different purposes, and they include PVC, CPVC, copper, ABS, and galvanized steel pipes. Listed below are the advantages and disadvantages of each. Read on to find out the uses for each plumbing pipe.
Copper pipes
Copper is one of the most popular materials for plumbing, and there are several types available. There are three main types of copper piping: type M, type L, and type K. Type M is recommended for normal “in the wall” household plumbing, and type L is suitable for areas requiring high strength and protection. Copper pipes are recyclable, and they also resist corrosion and extreme temperatures. And they are highly resistant to hot and cold water.
Among the main types of piping, copper pipes are the most durable. Copper pipes come in flexible coils or rigid ten-foot lengths. They are also available at ipsplumbingproducts.com in different thicknesses. Rigid copper pipes are ideal for water supply lines, while flexible copper pipes are used in small spaces. Copper pipes are very resistant to corrosion and are excellent for high water pressure. They are also temperature tolerant and can withstand high pressure.
PVC pipes
Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, is common for domestic plumbing systems. This combination of plastic and vinyl is known for its durability and strength. It is also a lightweight material, making it easy to work with, and it does not rust or develop corrosive properties. PVC pipes are also made with a smooth inner lining, protecting them from sediment buildup and helping prevent blockages.
Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, is a chemical compound used to manufacture a variety of household plumbing pipes. PVC can be either flexible or brittle, depending on how it is manufactured. The former type is often called rigid PVC because it requires high pressure to remain flexible. It is also environmentally friendly since it is 100% recyclable.
CPVC
CPVC, or chlorinated polyvinyl chloride, is a thermoplastic polymer resistant to heat. CPVC pipes are flexible and can be set in concrete, although CPVC can cause problems when it comes to concrete. CPVC pipes are also available in hot and cold water applications, but they tend to freeze more easily. That means that they need to be well-insulated to avoid piping emergencies.
CPVC has many advantages over copper. It is easier to install and can be easily cut to size. CPVC is also resistant to aggressive water, and copper will erode in areas with acidic water, while CPVC will not. CPVC pipes have a smooth inner surface and are less expensive than copper, and these benefits make them the preferred choice for water lines in the house.
ABS pipes
ABS pipe is commonly used for drain and vent lines. It is similar to PVC but a little softer than that. It is important to follow local codes before installing it. It is also compatible with flexible connections, called Flexi’s, used for the final connections to appliances. ABS pipe is available in a wide variety of sizes. However, you cannot install this type of pipe inside walls.
When choosing between ABS and PVC pipes, remember the differences between the two. PVC pipes are more flexible than ABS pipes, making them more suitable for cold climates. On the other hand, ABS pipes can deform when exposed to bright sunlight. ABS pipes also tend to be less expensive, but you have to account for shipping fees when choosing the material for your pipe installation.
Galvanized steel pipes
If your house has old galvanized water pipes, you may want to replace them. This material looks much like a nickel but ages over time to become dull and black. One easy way to identify galvanized pipes is by scratching them with a nickel or a screwdriver. If they don’t stick, you’ve got galvanized pipes. If you’re concerned about your plumbing system, you can also look for rust-colored water and stained fixtures.
While galvanized pipes can last for many years with proper maintenance, there’s always a risk of corrosion. Excessive pressure will quickly weaken a pipe and accelerate corrosion, decreasing its lifespan. Defective galvanized pipes can manifest themselves in multiple ways. Mineral deposits caused by corrosion can obstruct water pressure. You can tell if your water pressure is low or inconsistent.
While galvanized steel pipes are still widely used, you shouldn’t use them if you don’t have the money. They corrode quickly and can even leak lead into your water.
