Plumbing systems are one of the most important inventions of our time, says Atara Property Management company. Without the vast network of pipes and connections that deliver clean water to your home while also removing wastewater from the house, you could not have a modern home.
At the heart of the plumbing system are the pipes that run to and from the house. These pipes ensure your home’s clean water supply and the disposal of wastewater. Plumbing pipes play a vital role in maintaining your hygiene and your family’s health.
But what do you know about the plumbing pipes in your home or the different types available in the market? Below, we explain different types of plumbing pipes, their pros and cons, and how to choose the right plumbing pipes for your home.
Types of plumbing pipes with their pros and cons
- Copper pipes
Copper is one of the oldest materials used in water pipes. It is still a popular option today. There are two types of copper piping used in homes: rigid copper and flexible copper tubing.
Pros and cons of copper pipes
- Longevity: Copper pipes can last as long as 50 years.
- Strength: They are durable – resistant to leakage and corrosion.
- Safety: Their antibacterial qualities make them very safe.
- Temperature-resistant: Copper can withstand extreme temperature changes.
- Costly: Copper is expensive, and the prices are going higher.
- Environmental cost: Mining copper comes at a cost to the environment.
- Galvanized steel pipes
This pipe material used to be popular, but demand for it is fading. They can still be found in plumbing systems that were installed before the end of the 1980s.
Pros and cons of galvanized steel pipes:
- Durable: They are very rigid and can withstand heavy loads.
- Slightly affordable: They are cheaper than copper pipes.
- Easy to install: Because the pipes are threaded, they can screw into each other.
- Short lifespan: Compared to other materials, they have a short lifespan.
- Rust: The pipes will rust if the galvanization process wears off.
- Clogs: Due to mineral buildup inside the pipes, they clog easily.
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes
Made by combining vinyl and plastic at high temperatures, these pipes are growing in popularity. They are suitable for a wide range of applications.
Pros and cons of PVC pipes
- Longevity: PVC pipes last longer than copper pipes.
- Strong: They can handle high water pressure.
- Ease of installation: Because of their lightweight, they are easy to transport and install
- Cheap: PVC pipes are relatively inexpensive
- Warping: Plastic pipes are not ideal for transporting hot water
- Size: There are limited size options
- Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC) pipes
CPVC is a close relative of PVC but is more advanced than PVC. CPVC is often used in applications where PVC is not suitable.
Pros and cons of CPVC pipes
- Longevity: It has a similar lifespan to PVC.
- Tough: It can withstand high water pressure.
- Temperature-tolerant: Unlike PVC, it can withstand temperatures of up to 200°F.
- Easy of use: It is lightweight and easy to install.
- Limited use: It can only be used indoors because it does not tolerate sunlight.
- Cost: It is costlier than PVC.
- Cross-Linked Polyethylene (PEX) pipes
This is a relatively new type of plastic pipe. The major difference between it and PVC or CPVC is that it is flexible.
Pros and cons of PEX pipes
- Longevity: If they are not damaged PEX pipes can last indefinitely.
- Flexibility: They don’t need a lot of connectors because they can make 90° turns.
- Temperature-tolerance: PEX pipes can withstand high temperatures.
- Resistant to freezing: When they freeze PEX pipes expand instead of bursting.
- Limited use: They can only be used indoors.
- Taste and odor: They give a slight taste and odor to water.
How to choose the right plumbing pipes for your home
When choosing plumbing pipes for repiping for your home, consider the following factors:
- Function
There are three types of plumbing pipes in homes – fresh water, drainage, and stormwater. Is the pipe for drinking water, heating, gas lines, or other purpose?
- Layout
What is the size of your home, and are there many twists and turns in the plumbing design? Do you expect the pipes to be exposed to sunlight, and is there a risk of freezing?
- Durability
Maintenance should be at the top of your mind when choosing a pipe. Pipes vulnerable to extreme temperature changes and corrosion will need more care.
- Ease of Installation
Heavy pipe materials are costlier to transport and harder to install. How hard is it to cut or join the pipes?
- Cost
Consider the upfront cost of purchasing the pipes, future maintenance costs, and the possibility of premature pipe replacement.
- Local building codes
What do the city’s building codes and regulations require?
Lastly, a reputable plumber in Chicago can ease this decision-making process by giving you a proper perspective and providing you with the benefit of their immense experience.