Today’s plumbing industry is rapidly changing as we learn more and more about the health advantages and dangers of different materials used for the pipes that carry our water. Innovation has met design and the result is many types of plumbing pipes that each carry their own unique benefits depending on their use. Pipes are used to support your home’s water supply, drainage, and sewer requirements.
A consultation with a professional plumber can help you narrow down your choices so that you select a plumbing pipe that will work best for your quality of life, budget, and lifestyle. This article will detail the five most popular plumbing pipes that most homeowners will encounter.
PVC Pipe
PVC pipe is made of plastic. PVC plumbing pipes are used in homes for water supply, drainage, and waste removal. These pipes are cheaper when compared to other types of plumbing pipes.
Plastic plumbing pipes are easily available because they are manufactured by many companies in different parts of world. PVC pipes are highly flexible and durable because there is no metal or corrosion inside the plastic piping.
PEX Pipe
PEX plumbing pipes, also known as cross linked polyethylene plumbing, are manufactured with advanced technology. PEX plumbing systems are used in homes because these plumbing systems require less water pressure to transport liquid over a long distance. This type of plumbing pipe also offers protection against winter freezing issues. It provides a high-water flow rate and does not corrode easily. Unlike metal plumbing pipes, the flexible PEX plumbing system is easily available at a low cost and often comes with a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Copper Pipe
Coated rigid copper pipe is a great way to improve water flow. The metal provides an excellent surface for natural convection and reduces friction, which means less energy wasted on heating or cooling your home’s plumbing system! Copper pipes are one of the most durable materials for plumbing. They have excellent thermal conductivity, high strength, and even low corrosion rates.
ABS Pipe
The ABS pipe (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is a versatile and affordable material for your home, often used as a vent and drain line. Like PVC pipe, ABS is perfect if you’re looking to build new plumbing systems or renovate older ones. This product will last longer than traditional materials because it has been designed with longevity in mind! In fact, these pipes can withstand temperatures up as high at 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit without any damage whatsoever!
Galvanized Steel Pipe
Steel plumbing pipes have been around for many years and are often found in older homes for drainage, water supply, gas supply, and more. Steel pipes are known to last due to their impressive strength but are primarily used for gas supply purposes.
Galvanized steel pipes were invented back in 1843 when someone realized he could coat one side with zinc + copper mixture which would protect against rust by forming an electro-galvanic cell between two dissimilar metals during use. However, the high lead content in this coating has since been associated with increased risk for disease so it is no longer incorporated into
new builds or remodels.
Pipe maintenance keeps your plumbing system operating without disruption and extends the lifespan of your pipes, appliances, and fixtures. Mike Counsil Plumbing and Rooter delivers comprehensive plumbing services to San Jose, CA residents that include leak detection, re-piping, and other pipe maintenance tasks to take care of our customers. As a family-owned company, we are dedicated to premier customer service. Your maximum comfort is our job. When you have a plumbing problem, you can trust your home to our expert technicians–we have you covered!
Contact us today to schedule a pipe inspection and let us restore your home’s prior functionality with ease!
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As a Family owned and operated company we service all plumbing needs in San Jose, California and the South Bay.
