Are you in the market for new plumbing for your home? There are a few different options out there and understanding the differences is important. Each one comes with its own benefits and drawbacks. Consult with a plumber to decide which option is best for your budget and your home plumbing system’s needs.
What are PVC Pipes?
PVC pipes stand for polyvinyl chloride pipes and are thermoplastics. PVC piping is manufactured widely, readily available, and cheap. It is easy to assemble and can be manipulated into several different shapes. They also are resistant to corrosion, chemical reagents, and disinfectant chemicals. Due to the smooth lines of PVC pipes, there is reduced water flow resistance, which prevents blockages from occurring. The joints are leak-free compared to PEX and copper pipes. The performance life of PVC pipes is between 50 and 100 years. They also are more resistant to tree root intrusion since there are fewer joints. PVC pipes are extremely flexible and flex without breaking.
What are PEX Pipes?
Another thermoplastic is PEX pipes, which stand for cross-link polyethylene. PEX pipes have been used for electrical and radiant heat insulators in extreme conditions. They are a quick install with fewer connections and fittings. PEX pipes are more efficient since heat is limited but they aren’t recommended for outside use. They are color-coded based on the water temperature: red is hot, blue is cold, and white is any. PEX pipes can be installed with a cinch or cinch rings and a cinch clamp tool, compression, or stab-in fittings. PEX piping is less toxic than soldering copper pipes.
What are Copper Pipes?
Copper pipes have been the standard in the plumbing industry for a very long time. Dealing with copper pipes requires experience with soldering pipes and fittings together. Typically, the best practice for dealing with connecting copper pipes is to use a vise and workbench before attaching it under a sink. Copper can be expensive to fix and maintain. It costs about a two-thirds more than PEX piping. They also can corrode depending on the pH levels of the water. Copper pipes can also burst due to frozen water in the lines. They do have natural attributes, such as:
- Creating a biostatic atmosphere, which prevents bacteria to grow inside
- Resists corrosion due to the elements outside and inside
- Unaffected by ultraviolet rays so they can be used outdoors as well as indoors
Time to make a change in your plumbing quality with flexible pipes. Contact Estes Services to discuss which option is right for you with one of our experienced plumbers. We are knowledgeable about all options and our plumbers will install new pipes without you dealing with the hassle! Call us today and schedule a plumbing service call.
