Old pipe systems in homes, office buildings, and industrial establishments have originally only used galvanized steel or cast iron. Today, however, the variety of materials used in fluid conveyances has been considerably wide. These include the following:
Steel. Steel pipes are strong and readily available, but last for only about 50 years. They can get eroded over time and may require replacement rather than repair when something gets broken.
Copper. Copper pipe is very resistant to corrosion, so it is commonly used in water supply lines. It costs more than plastic but lasts much longer.
ABS. Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene or ABS is a plastic material first used in residential plumbing in the 1970s. It is usually colored black and is very affordable.
PVC. Polyvinyl-chloride or PVC is a white or cream-colored pipe most commonly used in drain lines. It is very strong, does not easily react with chemicals, and could last for a long time. The rating and diameter is stamped right on the pipe.
PEX. Cross-linked polyethylene or PEX is the newest kind of pipe for residential use. Approved in most states, it can be easily installed, is flexible, and uses compression fittings. However, more permanent connections require a special crimping tool. As for its price, PEX is three to four times more expensive than copper or plastic.
Chris Keehner is the president of DS Pipe & Steel Supply LLC, an independent, family-owned, full-line stocking distributor of structural steel, pipes, valves, fittings, and piping specialties. For more about his company’s services, click here.
Steel. Steel pipes are strong and readily available, but last for only about 50 years. They can get eroded over time and may require replacement rather than repair when something gets broken.
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| Image source: nytimes.com |
Copper. Copper pipe is very resistant to corrosion, so it is commonly used in water supply lines. It costs more than plastic but lasts much longer.
ABS. Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene or ABS is a plastic material first used in residential plumbing in the 1970s. It is usually colored black and is very affordable.
PVC. Polyvinyl-chloride or PVC is a white or cream-colored pipe most commonly used in drain lines. It is very strong, does not easily react with chemicals, and could last for a long time. The rating and diameter is stamped right on the pipe.
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| Image source: wikipedia.org |
PEX. Cross-linked polyethylene or PEX is the newest kind of pipe for residential use. Approved in most states, it can be easily installed, is flexible, and uses compression fittings. However, more permanent connections require a special crimping tool. As for its price, PEX is three to four times more expensive than copper or plastic.
Chris Keehner is the president of DS Pipe & Steel Supply LLC, an independent, family-owned, full-line stocking distributor of structural steel, pipes, valves, fittings, and piping specialties. For more about his company’s services, click here.
Nice read. It is also important to talk to a licensed plumber so they can give you all the pros and cons.
ReplyDeleteThis is the first time hearing about PEX.
ReplyDeleteI have used PVC for years and have had no issues.
ReplyDeleteThis will help me make the best decision for my home and wallet. Thanks! :)
ReplyDelete