This article will describe the most popular types of plumbing pipes, and how they are used in your home’s plumbing system.

Over time, plumbing pipes have changed to carry water to your kitchen faucet and drain waste to your sewer system. The steel or galvanized pipes that were the foundation of in-home plumbing in the early 1900s have been replaced by more modern plumbing options, like polyvinyl chloride (PVC) piping and polyethylene cross-linked piping (PEL).

Continue reading to find out about the most Specialised Pipe & Water Solutions that you will find in your house.

1. PVC Pipes

PVC plumbing pipes are known for their versatility, lightweight, and resistance to blockage. Although PVC piping is most commonly used in a shower drain, toilet, or sink line, it can also be used as the main water supply pipe for a home.

Pros

• Affordable– The lightweight properties of PVC reduce the amount of labor required to install the material and also lower the cost of transportation.
• Resistant against high water pressure -PVC is not flexible and won’t bend easily, but it does have some flexibility properties that can withstand constant high water pressure.
• Blockage-resistant The smooth inner lining made of PVC accelerates the drainage process and protects it from sediment buildup.

2. PEX Pipes

PEX is a low-cost plastic plumbing solution that can withstand hot and cold water. It is often used to supply water lines.

Pros

• Simple installation–PEX uses the “crimp” method of installing PEX. This involves using a special tool to crimp a ring around a ribbed fitting. PEX can be retrofitted to copper and PVC pipes with the help of a crimping method.
• Flexibility -PEX pipe is ideal for tight spaces and sharp corners. It can be stretched long distances without the need to use additional fittings.

3. ABS Pipes

Acrylonitrile-butadiene styrene piping (ABS) is a type of piping made of plastic that is similar to PVC. Its black color distinguishes it from other types. ABS is a long-lasting plastic piping that’s used for drain and waste piping.

Pros

• Simple to install– While PVC pipes require a coating of solvent before applying cement, ABS pipes only need cement.

4. Copper Pipes

Copper pipe is durable for more than 50 years. It is the most common hard pipe in the plumbing industry. It can withstand high water pressure. There are two types of copper pipes: flexible and rigid.

Water supply lines are typically made from a rigid copper pipe, while flexible copper pipes can be used in tight spaces where malleable copper is unable to bend.

Pros

• Environmental friendly–Copper is recyclable so that your water lines are made of recycled material or can be reused for future uses.

5. Cast Iron and Galvanized Pipe

Cast iron and galvanized pipes are not often installed in new homes. However, these pipes may be available if your home was built in the 20th century.

Cast iron pipes are strong and long-lasting and can still be used for water distribution. Cast iron pipes resist heat and can reduce the sound of water moving..

6. Pipes made of chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC).

This non-corrosive pipe is suitable for both cold and hot temperatures (around 180°F). It’s durable and simple to use.

CPVC is different from PVC in that it has been modified with a free radical chlorine reaction, which effectively increases its chlorine content.

CPVC is also a thermoplastic, which can be used to mold many of the same products that PVC. This allows for a wider range of temperatures to be tolerated.

Because CPVC is used in more applications than PVC it is more costly.