How to Pick the Right Plumbing Pipes for Your Home

If you’re looking to extend the life of your plumbing system and save money on unexpected repairs a pipe replacement or repair can help.

There are many kinds of plumbing pipe materials so it’s important to pick the kind that is best for your home’s needs. Here you will learn the different kinds of piping materials and how to know it’s time for a pipe replacement.

When You Should Get New Pipes

A pipe replacement may be recommended for various reasons. Here are some ways to know it’s time for one for your plumbing system.

• Leaking Fixtures or Pipes – The sure ways to tell if you have a pipe or fixture that is leaking is if you see water puddling where pipes and fixtures are or if you feel any damp spots on the other side of walls and appliances.
• Water is Draining Slowly – Water that slowly goes down your drain is a sign that your pipes have a clog. Corroded pipes tend to have a higher chance of clogs forming in your lines.
• Water Pressure Has Decreased – A pipe replacement may be recommended when you are seeing low water pressure in your home over and over again. Leaks or clogs in your pipes can cause this.
• Bad Smelling Water – Water can smell bad when mold and mildew build up in the lines. These are toxic materials that have the ability to make you sick so don’t use or consume water unless a pipe replacement is completed.
• Dark Water Color – Brown or discolored water is usually caused by corrosion in your water pipes. The only thing you can do for corroded pipes is to have them replaced.

The Different Pipe Materials

When you’re looking for the right kind of piping material for your home’s system, you’ll want to know the features each kind presents. Here are the different kinds and their benefits.

Galvanized

Galvanized piping used to be the normal pipe material option for residential homes. But due to the rate they corrode and the pipe’s small diameter that causes low water pressure in the plumbing system, they are used less often.

PEX

PEX piping is commonly used for small businesses and residential homes plumbing systems. It is made up of plastic materials and is a great option if you are wanting to install your plumbing pipes yourself.

These make for a great investment because they last a long time but are more expensive upfront. PEX is only suitable for indoor plumbing because the sun’s UV rays will cause the outside layer of the pipe to strip away.

Copper

A common piping that is used in home plumbing systems is copper. This is due to its great benefits such as they’re resistant to corrosion, do well with temperature fluctuations and extreme temperatures, and being very durable.

This is not a good piping material if you want to install your own pipes because the pipes will need special fittings if you plan on them running alongside other pipe materials and the pipes will need to be soldered together. Having a licensed plumber perform this installation is best.

PVC

PVC piping can be used for a very wide range of plumbing needs. This is due to it coming in many different thicknesses and configurations. The installation process is easier so accomplishing your own pipe replacement is possible. It’s also a less expensive investment to make. However, even with its benefits it is not always used as a permanent solution.

Cast Iron

Cast iron pipes are heavy, durable pipes that are commonly used for parts of the plumbing system that are installed underground such as the drainage system or main pipe. Typically found in large or commercial building plumbing systems.

Brass

Brass pipes are typically used for water tanks, pump fittings, inside walls, and hot water distribution. They can help keep your water pressure normal since they have less friction on the inner walls of the pipe. They also are resistant to rust accumulating and are the longest-lasting kind of pipe material.

Stainless Steel

If you’re in search of the “Rolls Royce” of piping materials for your plumbing system, stainless steel is the answer. This pipe material is corrosion-resistant and has high dependability, flexibility, and durability.

They are commonly used in vulnerable places and areas where it is harder to place insulation. Stainless steel pipes also cost more than other pipe materials and have a more complex installation process. This is due to needing specific coupling to attach them to other pipes.

After You Choose Your New Plumbing Pipes

Now that you’ve gotten to learn what each type of plumbing pipe material is used and best for, it’s time to contact a professional.

Our licensed plumbers at Service Champions specialize in pipe replacement and installation. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment!