Plumbing

Choosing the right kind of plumbing pipes for your home can help you save money and expand the life of your plumbing system.

Since there are so many kinds of piping materials it’s important to know the benefits of each. This article will help you make your decision on which type of pipe is best for you for your home.

When Should I Get New Pipes?

All plumbing systems will give you signs that it’s time to have your pipes replaced. Here are some ways to tell if a pipe replacement is the best decision.

  • Decreased Water Pressure – This is usually caused due to a clog or leak in your pipes but if it happens continuously even after attempting to have the problem fixed, a pipe replacement might be a good idea.
  • Slow Draining Water – A clog has most likely formed in your pipes if you notice your water is slowly seeping down the drains. Corroded pipes can have a bigger issue with clogs.
  • Water Comes Out Dark – Pipes that have corrosion present in them will create a dark or brown tint on your water. Only a pipe replacement can rid your pipes of corrosion.
  • Water Has An Odd or Bad Smell – Toxic materials such as mildew and mold can build inside your water lines which will create a bad smell to your water. Since these materials can be hazardous to your health make sure a pipe replacement is done before you use or consume the water.
  • Fixtures and Pipes are Leaking – You can discover a leak by checking for any damp places behind appliances or walls or noticing any water puddling beneath your fixtures or pipes.

Compare Different Pipe Materials

Having an understanding of the different pipe materials and their benefits will help you choose the best option for your home’s plumbing system.

PEX

PEX is a piping material that has a very easy installation process which allows you to install them yourself. It’s composed of a plastic material and is commonly seen in residential and small business buildings.

PEX pipes have a higher initial cost due to materials but will make a great investment in the long run. PEX must only be used for indoor plumbing and not outdoor pipes. This is because the UV rays from the sun will strip away the outer layer of the pipe.

PVC

PVC piping comes in a wide range of configurations and thicknesses which make them great for a variety of plumbing uses. This material is also cheaper to purchase and has a more simple installation process. Even though they are a great pipe material, they aren’t typically used for a permanent plumbing solution.

Galvanized

Galvanized pipes can cause low water pressure in your home because of the pipe’s small diameter. They also have a higher chance of corroding faster than other kinds of pipe materials. Because of these reasons galvanized pipes are no longer the traditional pipe material for residential homes.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel piping has many benefits including durability, dependability, corrosion resistance, and flexibility, and is considered the highest quality pipe material you can get for your home’s plumbing system.

Typically, this piping material is installed in spaces where insulation is more difficult to put and other vulnerable areas in your plumbing system. They also will run you more money upfront and require a more difficult installation process because certain coupling will need to be used to attach them to other pipes.

Copper

A great piping option is copper if you’re searching for a pipe material that can handle extreme temperatures and temperature fluctuations. They are also durable and resistant to corrosion which makes them a common material used in home plumbing systems.

However, it’s important to remember that these kinds of pipes have a more complicated install system where they will need to be soldered together and have special fittings used if you are running them along with other pipe materials. A licensed plumber should perform the project.

Brass

Brass piping is one of the longest-lasting pipe materials on the market. They also have great benefits such as steady water pressure due to less friction inside the pipe’s walls and they also don’t rust. You will likely find them used inside walls, for water tanks, hot water distribution, and as pump fittings.

Cast Iron

Cast iron is typically used in areas of your plumbing system that are installed beneath the surface of the ground. These areas can include the main pipe or drainage system. Since they are the most heavy-duty pipe material, they are commonly used in commercial or large buildings.

What To Do Once You Choose Your New Plumbing Pipes

After you consider which pipe material will be best for your home’s system, get in touch with a licensed professional.

The JW Plumbing, Heating and Air team are expert in the field of pipe installation and replacement. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

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