Plumbing pipes are used for various purposes, such as to bring water to your tabs and carry your waste to sewage systems. In this article, we will help you choose the right pipe for water supply, drainage, and sewer for your interior and exterior. We have written down the pros and cons of common plumbing pipes such as PEX, PVC, copper, and ABS.
PVC pipes
PVC is a white plastic pipe material that is commonly used for home sink, toilet, and shower drain lines. If you want to protect water from rust and corrosion, the ideal choice is PVC because of its plastic tubing.
PVC pipes have a smooth inner lining to protect against sediment buildup and prevent blockage. PVC has gained popularity because it is easy to install. You only require a hacksaw and a meter box to cut and solvents to put together two pipes.
Use for: Building codes limit PVC application only to drain, waste, and vent. PVC can also be used for below-ground irrigation water supply.
Pros of PVC pipes
- PVC pipes are durable, inexpensive, and last indefinitely
- Can handle high water pressure.
- Prevent water from rust and corrosion.
Cons of PVC pipes
- PVC pipes have limited size options
- Unable to withstand hot water, can only withstand fluids at 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
- It may introduce polyvinyl chloride into drinking water, which may cause respiratory issues.
PEX pipes
PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is a plastic piping that is used for water supply lines. PEX pipes are rigid enough to withstand the pressure of the water supply. They are also flexible enough to weave through walls, ceilings, and basements. PEX pipes come in three types: A, B, and C. A is the most flexible one, suitable for tight spaces and complex installations.
B is slightly less flexible, and C is the stiffest, ideal for straight runs. PEX pipes are color-coded red for hot water and blue for cold water. Special tools are required to connect PEX pipes, such as copper crimping and PEX crimping.
Use for: PEX pipe used for water supply within the house. These are also used for hydronic piping and radiators.
Pros of PEX pipes
- Flexible can easily weave throughout the walls and ceiling
- Prevent water from rust and corrosion
- Durable and inexpensive
Cons of PEX piping
- A special tool like PEX crimping is used for making a connection
- Not suitable to use in outdoor
ABS pipes
ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) pipe is a versatile option for both indoor and outdoor use. Made of a thermoplastic resin, it is similar to PVC pipes in nature, but ABS pipes can be easily identified because of their black color.
They are durable, though prolonged sunlight exposure can degrade them. This versatility gives you more options when planning your plumbing system.
Used for: It is mainly used for drain, waste, and vent (DWV) applications.
Pros of ABS pipes
- These are lightweight and can be joined by using only one-step cement.
- Strong and durable.
- Can withstand cold temperatures.
Cons of ABS pipes
- ABS pipes are noisier compared to other types of plumbing pipes.
- Contains BPA (Bisphenol B), which may cause cancer.
Copper Pipes
Copper pipe is the hard pipe used for water supply in residential and commercial applications. Copper pipes come in both rigid and flexible varieties. They are categorized on the basis of thickness, namely M, L, and K. K is the thickest, M is the thinnest, and L is of intermediate thickness.
Copper pipes could be used for both hot and cold water. Copper can also be recycled, which makes it environmentally friendly. Copper pipes could easily be cut with a tubing cutter or hacksaw.
Used for: copper pipes are used for sinks, showers, and tubs.
Pros of copper pipes
- Corrosion resistant
- Protect the quality of water
- Copper pipes are quite durable
Cons of copper pipes
- Copper pipes are so rigid that they can’t be used in tight spaces.
- Copper pipes are the most expensive type of plumbing pipes
- To connect two pipes, you have to weld the pipes
Cast iron and galvanized steel pipes
Galvanized steel and cast iron pipes were used in early 20th-century homes but rarely used in modern construction. They were mostly used for drainage and water supply purposes. Other plumbing pipes, such as PEX and copper pipes, have replaced these pipes.
Galvanized steel is rigid and corrosion-resistant and was used for drainage, water supply, and gas supply. Now, these pipes are rarely used for water supply in modern construction. To connect two pipes, you thread each end of the pipes and then screw them together using connecting fittings.
Cast iron pipes were often used for sewer and other drainage purposes. These pipes are heavy and difficult to cut because they are rigid. ABS pipes replace these pipes. Cast-iron pipes are prone to rust and corrosion that affect the clean water supply.
Used for: These pipes were being used in the 20th century for drainage and water supply purposes. But now, these pipes are being replaced with copper, PVC, and other plumbing pipes on the market.
Pros of galvanized steel and cast iron pipes
- Strong and durable
- Heat resistant and soundproof.
Cons of galvanized steel and cast iron pipes
- Rust and corrosion can contaminate the water supply with lead
- The pipes are very heavy to lift.
- Water could also be clogged because of mineral buildup.
Asbestos cement pipe
Asbestos cement pipes are made of concrete and are very inexpensive. They are used for sewage and other draining purposes. Cement pipes can also be used for ventilation as they can withstand high pressure and are easy to install. They are very useful at some construction sites to connect the building’s drainage system with the main sewer lines.
Used for: Asbestos cement pipes are mainly used for drainage purposes.
Pros of cement pipes
- These pipes come in varying sizes and are available for all uses.
- As they are made of concrete, no extra reinforcement is needed to support the pipes
- They are durable
Cons of cement pipes
- Heavy to lift and difficult to transport.
- Asbestos is a carcinogen material, so never use these pipes for water supply systems.
Black iron steel pipe
Black pipes are rigid and made of black steel. These pipes are best for transporting natural gas into your homes. This pipe is used in gas stoves, gas boilers, and other appliances that use natural gas. They are generally stronger than PVC pipes. Each end is threaded to make connections with other pipes.
Used for: these pipes are fire-resistant and mainly used for transporting natural gas into your homes.
Pros of black pipes
- Black pipes are fire-resistant.
- They are durable
- Black pipes are less prone to leak, which makes them ideal for transporting natural gas
Cons of black pipes
- The black coating can wear off, which makes it prone to further corrosion and rust.
- It can’t be used in tight places because of rigidity.
CPVC pipes
CPVC is thermoplastic produced by chlorination of polyvinyl chloride resin. It is more flexible than PVC, so that it can be used in tight places. CPVC pipes can be used to handle hot and cold water and industrial liquids.
These pipes have been extensively used in fire sprinkler systems since 1985. The added chlorine made the plastic harder and more durable. It can withstand hot water to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. These pipes are available in a wide range of sizes.
Used for: These pipes are used for both hot and cold water. Withstands temperature to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Also used for industrial and process piping applications.
Pros of CPVC pipes
- CPVC pipes are stronger, durable, and flexible.
- Cheaper than copper.
- These pipes are lightweight and easy to transport.
- Resistant to corrosion and deposits.
Cons of CPVC pipes
- CPVC pipes are more expensive than PVC pipes
How to choose plumbing pipes
Purpose: You have to choose the plumbing pipe according to the application. For instance, if you want to connect the home drainage with the main drainage supply, the best fit would be asbestos cement pipes. Pipes like PVC, CPVC, and copper are used for different applications.
Cost: Cost is another factor that you have to take into consideration when choosing plumbing pipes. The two different pipes can serve the same purpose, but their prices may vary. More expensive pipes would last longer, which will save money in the long run.
Durability and lifespan: Different materials have varying lifespans. For instance, copper pipes are known for their durability and can last for decades, whereas PVC and PEX pipes may have a shorter lifespan but are easier and cheaper to replace.
Water quality: Certain pipes, like copper, do not leach harmful substances into the water, ensuring better taste and safety. On the other hand, pipes like PVC and PEX may release trace amounts of chemicals over time, which could affect water quality.
Installation complexity: Some pipes, like PEX, are flexible and easy to install, making them ideal for DIY projects or retrofitting. Others, such as copper or steel pipes, may require professional installation due to the need for special tools or welding.
You can also speak to a contractor or plumbing expert who can help you make informed decisions about choosing pipes.
Conclusion – 8 different types of home plumbing pipes
Selecting the right plumbing pipes requires careful consideration of various factors, including durability, water quality, installation complexity, temperature tolerance, and local building codes. Each type of pipe has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, making it essential to choose based on the specific needs of your project.
Consulting with a plumbing expert and weighing the long-term costs and environmental impact will further ensure that you make an informed decision. By understanding the properties of each material, you can choose the best plumbing solution for your home, ensuring efficiency and safety.
(Feature Image credit: ET Realty)