How to Choose the Right Plumbing Pipe?

 choosing plumbing pipes

There are many types of plumbing pipes for residential or commercial buildings. Plumbing pipes such as PEX, copper, and PVC are commonly used, depending on their application and the location where they are installed. There are also some other types of plumbing pipes such as black, galvanized, and brass. Before you continue, also make sure that you use the right plumbing tools for the piping work that needs to be done! Let's look at the best application for the most commonly used plumbing pipes below.

1. Stainless Steel Pipes

Stainless steel can look very nice, but it is very expensive. Stainless steel pipe is used in areas that are prone to corrosion and near coastal areas. This type of pipe is available in both flexible and rigid and requires some special fittings to be attached to other types of pipes. Do not confuse stainless steel pipes with galvanized pipes. It is available in various sizes and lengths.

2. Copper Pipes

Copper pipes are probably the most traditional plumbing pipe used due to their extensive longevity and reliability. They offer superior corrosion resistance, great material to be used for hot and cold water, and it can be easily managed. However, the main factor to consider before using copper pipes is that it must be soldered together and it may require additional fittings. Not everyone is good at soldering copper pipes, so talk to a plumber.

3. Galvanized Pipes

Galvanized pipes were used a few years ago as the standard for residential projects. However, over time, it is less commonly used in household environments because rust can accumulate in pipes with small diameters. If the pipe is old enough, you may be able to see water coming out of the tap with rust stains because the scale can break off from the inside of the pipe. Galvanized pipes can be used to transport gray water or non-potable water.

4. Cast Iron Pipes

Cast iron plumbing pipes are usually manufactured as bell-and-spigot types. They can also be found with threaded connections, which are more expensive than the bell-and-spigot option. Cast iron bell-and-spigot is usually used in large buildings and underground applications. No-hub cast iron, another type of cast iron plumbing pipes, is also widely used: in this type, the pipes and fittings are connected by couplings made by a number of manufacturers that offer different band strengths for different applications.

Cast iron pipes are heavier than other pipes and are usually used for water distribution systems or underground installation as the main pipe on drainage or sewage systems. The smallest size normally manufactured is a 4-inch pipe, large enough to be used for residential applications, although no-hub piping is available in sizes ranging from 1 1/2 inches to 15 inches and bell and spigot piping is made in sizes between 2 and 15 inches. Cast iron pipe is heavy and must be supported while you assemble a connection.

5. PEX Pipes

PEX piping is a flexible plastic pipe that has become a popular choice in residential and small business applications. Although the initial cost is slightly higher, the minimal maintenance and quick installation process make it the best pipe for water distribution in a building. PEX pipes offer a leak-free product that has advantages over copper pipes. One of the main disadvantages is that it cannot be used in outdoor applications because UV rays can damage the plastic layer outside.

6. PVC Pipes

PVC plumbing pipes are used for cold and hot potable water and sewage applications. PVC pipes vary in their thickness and configuration depending on the application where it will be used. Pressurized water pipes are not the same as sewage pipes and not the same as those in storm drainage systems. Plastic plumbing products designed for potable water applications are usually designated with NSF-PW or NSF-61 to indicate that the product meets the requirements for health effects of NSF/ANSI Standard 61.

7. Brass Pipes

Brass plumbing pipes offer great corrosion resistance when made of 67 percent to 85 percent copper. The best brass pipe quality is obtained when the alloy contains 85 percent copper and is called red brass pipe. Brass pipes provide a long-lasting material that does not rust on the inside and it does not cause friction losses in the pipe. Brass plumbing pipes are easier to thread than steel pipes and are excellent for hot water and large distribution systems, such as pump fittings, water tanks, and wells. Brass pipe is normally one of the longest lasting plumbing materials. Brass pipe is available in various straight lengths up to 12 feet.

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