The best examples of plumbing material

There are many materials used for plumbing installations in businesses and homes. Depending on the specification and application of a project, the options might change. Each piping material has some advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common materials used for plumbing include PVC, PEX, copper, and CPVC. The project cost can be reduced by optimizing the plumbing system layout regardless of the piping material used. This will result in the reduction of the total piping length required, fittings, and labor cost. Any plumbing company must utilize building information modeling to optimize the plumbing installation process. Some of the best materials in the market include;

Stainless steel 

Stainless steel is costly even though it looks immaculate. This material is primarily used in areas where corrosion is high such as coastal regions. They exist in rigid and flexible forms and sometimes need coupling to attach to other piping materials. They are sometimes confused with galvanized pipes. They are available in different lengths and sizes.

Copper

It has been the plumbing material of choice for a long time due to its durability. Even though other materials have been introduced with time, copper remains the best option. The only challenge copper is facing is its high price, and it also requires additional fitting and soldering. Due to its high value, it is prone to theft when exposed.

Pros

  • It is heat tolerant
  • It is durable
  • It does not contaminate water
  • The pipes can be recycled when worn out
  • They are resistant to corrosion
  • They are resistant to leaks

Cons

  • Even though they can be recycled, copper mining causes damage to the environment
  • They are very expensive
  • Some old installation contains lead solder

Copper piping is best used in cold and hot drinking water supplies and refrigerant lines for HVAC.

PVC 

Polyvinyl chloride is a plastic material that is widely used as a plumbing material. There are two sizes; schedule 40, which is thinner and cheaper, and schedule 80 has thicker walls and more expensive. They are primarily applied in the drain lines such as sinks and toilets and high-pressure piping.

Pros

  • It is nonconductive
  • It is affordable
  • It is resistant to high water pressure
  • Resistant to corrosion and rust
  • Has multiple sizes and fittings
  • Durable

Cons

  • They are deformed by heat thus cannot be used for hot water
  • it degrades when exposed to sunlight
  • it is not safe for drinking water

CPVC

Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride Contains a higher chlorine content than the typical PVC. Unlike standard PVC, it can be used for hot water. They are cheaper compared to copper and very smooth, thus less noisy when water flows.

Pros

  • It can be used for hot water
  • It is safe for drinking water
  • They are nonconductive
  • The process of installation is easy
  • They are resistant to fire
  • They are durable and flexible

Cons

  • They are unrecyclable
  • They sometimes split when frozen
  • They are environmental pollutants, especially during the manufacturing process
  • Compared to PVC, they are more expensive

Brass 

It has been in use long before copper. The alloy sometimes contains lead. The plumber must ensure it does not contain lead.

Pros

  • It contains properties same as copper
  • It is resistant to corrosion
  • Heat-resistant
  • It allows tight seals since the material is soft

Cons

  • Risk of lead contamination

Cross-linked polyethylene 

PEX is a very flexible piping material. It is one f the greatest among the piping material. It can wrap around edges like a hosepipe and does not require glue as it uses compression fitting. It has a lower installation cost than other pipes and can easily be used with other existing pipes such as copper during reparation.

Pros

  • Nonconductive
  • It can be sued with other piping materials
  • Freeze resistant
  • Heat-resistant

There are many plumbing and piping companies, such as San Diego Plumbing & Pipelining, which have more information about plumbing materials and installation and repair services.

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