Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) is also used. Copper and PEX are the most commonly used piping materials in homes. Copper tubes are durable, resistant to corrosion and can be used for cold and hot water. PEX appears to be replacing copper tubing at a high rate, as it is less expensive, more flexible and easier to install.
PVC is a plumbing pipe known for its versatility, lightness and resistance to blockage. PVC pipes are generally used as part of the drain line of the sink, toilet or shower, although they are sometimes used as the main water supply pipe in the house. The most common plumbing pipes are galvanized steel, copper, ABS, PVC, CPVC and PEX. Both pipes are prone to rust and corrode over time and have been replaced with copper or plastic pipes in residential plumbing repairs.
PVC pipes meet the U.S. National Institute for Standardization standards for drinking water, but there are concerns that the pipes release chemicals into the water. If you have copper pipes and you find that the water has a green or bluish tint, that may mean that the pipes are corroding. In the early days of plumbing in the ancient world, lead and clay pipes were used to transport water to homes and public buildings.
Copper is one of the most traditional materials for plumbing pipes and remains a popular choice today. When choosing the right pipe for your plumbing job, the most important factors to consider are both the function the pipe should perform and the layout of the space in which you are working. ABS pipes are durable, economical, resistant to water, corrosion and ideal for underground drainage pipes. Although still considered safe for water pipes, these pipes eventually corrode and start to leak, and must be replaced with copper, CPVC, or PEX pipes.
Talk to a professional plumber to understand the advantages and disadvantages of different types of water pipes and pipe fittings, from PVC and PEX to copper and brass. This particular plastic material is relatively new to the plumbing scene and can be used for a variety of plumbing applications. According to the Environmental Working Group, copper pipes with lead-free bonding materials are the best choice for water pipes. Nowadays, there are many types of plumbing pipes available, some old classics and some made with newer materials.
There are advantages and disadvantages to consider with each of these materials when selecting what type of pipes to use in your home's plumbing system. Each end of the pipe is threaded and the individual pipes are screwed together with connecting fittings. Black iron pipes were once a popular piping material for water supply, but today they are only used to transport natural gas or propane. This type of pipe is worth mentioning, although it must be understood that it is not intended for use in plumbing applications.
