Whether you own an old house or a new one, whether you are just remodeling a bathroom or building your dream home from the ground up, pipes are definitely a part of your project. Some pipes are used for drainage or sewer while others are used for water supply. That is why it is so important for you to know about the five main types of plumbing pipes that are used in homes today, what they are made of, and what each one is used for.
The five main types of plumbing pipes used in homes today are:
PVC pipe
Being lighter and easier to work with than galvanized steel pipe, this type of pipe became popular because it's easy to cut and install. Its main use is to drain or vent. However, since pieces must be glued, they cannot be separated and must be cut, but its low price compared to other options and the fact that it can easily be marked on its surface make it a favorite these days.
ABS pipe
ABS stands for acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. This type of pipe is mostly used as a vent and drain line. To identify it, keep in mind that it has a similar look to PVC only it's black and slightly softer. A problem this type of pipe faces is the fact that many times its use is not permitted by building code.
PEX pipe
Also called cross-linked polyethylene, this type of pipe is the newest and thus the most popular one on the market today. It is rigid enough to withstand the pressure of water but flexible enough to be woven through walls and ceilings. Its main use is to supply water
Rigid copper pipe
This type of pipe is used for water supply lines in the home. The toughest part of installing this type of product is the fact that it requires an experienced plumber to be able to solder the copper pieces together. Also, it's expensive and can develop pinhole leaks.
Flexible copper pipe
This type of pipes is used for final runs to refrigerators, some sinks, and water heaters. The fact that it is flexible means that it can be used in tight, unusually shaped areas. Although it has a high tolerance to heat, it is expensive and, as it is thin, it can be prone to breaking.
Additionally. It is common to find two more types of pipes in older homes: galvanized steel pipe and cast iron. Although galvanized steel pipes are extremely strong, they eventually corrode, blocking the flow of water. Also, there is some concern that some galvanized pipes may leak lead into the water supply.
You may be able to tackle a piping job in your home on your own. However, with so many options available to homeowners today, if you are not an expert, you may end up selecting the wrong product. Don't risk your remodel or new construction by putting in the wrong pipes or leaving plumbing that should have been replaced.
Reach out to your trusted, reliable plumber in Los Angeles today. Explain the details of your project to them and you will receive prompt, reliable work, guaranteed. As well as honest, up-front pricing for all jobs large and small.
