Whether you’re hiring a plumber to fix your plumbing problem or tackling a DIY project, choosing the right pipes for your home’s plumbing can be a challenge. With so many different options available, it’s difficult to know which type of plumbing pipes are right for you and your space.

When selecting which types of plumbing pipes to use in a residential plumbing system, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. Your quality of life at home is directly affected by your plumbing system, and Lenox is here to help you make a well-informed decision. Continue reading for our breakdown of the main types of plumbing pipes.

1. Polyvinyl Chloride Pipes (PVC)

PVC is known for its versatility, lightweight and blockage resistance. PVC piping is typically used as part of a sink, toilet or shower drain line, although it can also be used as a home’s main water supply pipe.

Pros

• Affordable. The lightweight properties of PVC not only make it easy to install, but they also decrease the cost of transporting the material.
• Resistant to high water pressure. PVC doesn’t easily bend, but the pipe does have some flexible properties that allow it to withstand the constant influx of high water pressure.
• Resistant to blockages. The smooth inner lining of PVC speeds up the draining process, protecting it against sediment buildup and blockages.

Cons

• Limited size options. PVC piping has limited sizing options that can render the piping ineffective within tight spaces.
• Warping. Like many types of plastic, PVC isn’t capable of withstanding very hot water and will warp as a result.

2. Cross-Linked Polyethylene Pipes (PEX)

PEX pipe is an affordable, plastic option that can withstand both hot and cold water. This type of piping is commonly used for water supply lines.

Pros

• Easy to install. PEX uses a “crimp” installation method that involves crimping a ring around a ribbed fitting using a specialized tool. PEX can even be retrofitted to copper or PVC pipes using the crimp method and specialized fittings. So, you can easily add PEX pipes to existing pipes in your home.
• Flexibility. PEX piping is conducive to tight spaces and sharp corners, and it can stretch for long distances without requiring additional fittings.

Cons

• Inside use only. PEX is susceptible to deterioration from ultraviolet rays, so these pipes can’t be used outside.
• Toxicity concerns. Some studies have shown that chemicals within PEX pipes leach into the drinking water, potentially exposing homeowners to carcinogens. As a result, PEX piping is not allowed in the state of California.

1/2’ PVC electric protective pipe

3. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Pipes (ABS)

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) piping is a type of plastic piping that’s similar to PVC and distinguishable by its black color. ABS has a long lifespan, and is used only for drain and waste piping.

Pros

• Resistant to cold temperatures. Although it’s not as flexible as PVC, it can better withstand colder temperatures.
• Easy to install. While PVC pipes need a coat of solvent before applying the cement that holds the pipes together, ABS pipes just need cement.

Cons

• Loud transport of water. ABS pipes don’t muffle the sound of running water as well as PVC pipes, which can be disturbing to homeowners.
• Warps in warm temperatures. ABS pipes don’t survive long in direct sunlight and can warp under strong ultraviolet light.

4. Copper Pipes

Copper piping lasts for over 50 years and is the standard hard pipe within the plumbing industry. It’s able to withstand high water pressure and comes in various grades of thickness, separated into two categories: rigid and flexible copper pipes.

A rigid copper pipe is typically used for water supply lines, whereas flexible copper pipes are used in tight spaces where the copper can bend.

Pros

• Corrosion-resistant. Copper pipes are resistant to corrosion, can handle high water pressure and are tolerant of both hot and cold temperatures.
• Environmentally friendly. Copper can be recycled, so your water lines can be made from recycled material or go on to be recycled for future use.

Cons

• Expensive. Copper piping is more expensive than some of its more popular plastic alternatives like PVC or PEX.
• Reduced flexibility. Copper is unable to be used in tight spaces where plastic piping would most likely be a better option.

5. Cast Iron And Galvanized Steel Piping

Although cast iron and galvanized piping are rarely installed in new construction homes, you may have these pipes if you have an older home that was built in the early 20th century.

A cast-iron pipe is strong and durable and is still used today for parts of water distribution systems. Cast iron pipes are heat-resistant and reduce the sound of moving water. Both pipes are prone to rust and corrosion over time, and they are usually swapped for copper or plastic pipes in residential plumbing repairs.

How Often Does Plumbing Need To Be Replaced?

The frequency in which you need to replace pipes can vary depending on the pipe material used, where the pipes are located, the type of water that runs through the pipes and even the soil they are located in.

If you live in a newer home, you probably don’t have to worry about replacing your pipes. However, if you live in an older home, consider having your plumbing system checked. To know when it’s time to replace your home’s pipes or to get a rough estimate of when you will need to replace them in the future, contact a licensed plumber.