Plumbing pipes are ubiquitous, located under the house, within walls, and extending to various fixtures. These pipes connect appliances and exit the house, available in diverse shapes, sizes, and materials.
Some transport gas, while others carry water. Understanding your home’s different types of plumbing pipes can help you spot issues early and select the appropriate pipes for your needs. Recognizing which materials suit specific lines is crucial for DIY repairs and can also expedite professional service by pinpointing the problem area.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel pipes were once commonly used in plumbing, particularly in older houses. While they’re strong and can handle high water pressure, these pipes tend to rust and corrode over time. This can cause reduced water flow, leaks, and contamination, affecting the plumbing system’s efficiency and dependability.
Properties with galvanized steel pipes often need regular maintenance and eventual replacement to avoid expensive water damage and maintain optimal functionality. Obtaining insurance coverage for homes with galvanized steel pipes can be challenging. Seek professional plumbing services to inspect, repair, and replace these pipes if necessary.
PVC Piping
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe is distinct in plumbing due to its typical cream color and use as drain or vent line pipes. These pipes are joined using solvents, are straightforward to install, and can be cut with a hacksaw. They gained popularity for being lightweight and easier to handle than traditional steel pipes.
PVC pipes remain favored because their diameters are marked, making them cost-effective and ideal for long runs. They are flexible and generally easy to work with. However, they are fragile and can shatter if dropped, cannot be disassembled without cutting, and the glued joints may leak.
Polypropylene
Polypropylene pipes are versatile and suitable for both cold and hot water supply; however, reinforced varieties are necessary for domestic hot water (DHW) systems. Reinforced polypropylene pipes can endure high pressure and temperatures up to 80˚C. PP pipes are ideal for internal installations due to their strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
While they aren’t decorative, they don’t detract from the appearance of boiler rooms and bathrooms, provided the markings are hidden against the wall. Polypropylene resists UV light but not freezing temperatures, which can cause pipes to burst. Draining and purging the system in winter is important for outdoor seasonal water pipes installed openly.
Pipeline installation involves soldering, and threaded fittings are used for transitioning to pipes of different diameters and materials. The most common combination in private homes is using HDPE pipes for outdoor connections and PP pipes for indoor distribution.
Copper Piping
Copper piping comes in two main types: rigid and flexible, with both being corrosion-resistant. This makes them popular for water supply lines. While durable and long-lasting, they are generally more expensive than PVC piping. They can handle high temperatures without posing health risks.
Rigid copper piping is available in three thicknesses: Type M, the thinnest and suitable for residential plumbing, and Types L and K, thicker and typically used for outdoor drainage. While rigid copper can handle high pressure, it is more expensive and somewhat difficult to work with.
Flexible copper is smaller and often used in household appliances needing a water connection, like dishwashers and refrigerators. It is generally easier to bend but can kink easily, requiring replacement if this occurs.
Cast Iron
Cast iron was predominantly used in sewer pipes, though some water supply lines were also made from it. This material was extensively used in plumbing from the 17th to the 20th century and even featured in constructing the fountains at Versailles. Its popularity stemmed from its durability and ability to endure heavy use and high pressure.
Cast iron pipes generally last 80 to 100 years before corroding from the inside. Corrosion is typically the cause of failure in cast iron pipes, and certain chemical drain cleaners can accelerate this process, so they should be avoided with cast iron sewer pipes.
ABS Piping
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene piping is primarily used for drain lines and vents. While ABS appears similar to PVC piping, it is distinguishable by its black color and softer texture. Some building codes prohibit ABS piping due to its joints, which are known to loosen easily, although it is more robust than PVC and performs well in colder temperatures. Ensure it complies with your local building codes before installation.
Endnote
Understanding your home’s plumbing system aids in home maintenance, issue prevention and resolution, along with recognizing when to seek professional help. While it might appear complicated, with some understanding and the proper tools, many routine plumbing tasks can be managed independently.
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