Different types of plumbing involve pipes used to transport water, waste and other materials. While there are different types of pipes, copper and PVC pipes are the most popular.
Rigid copper is often found in home plumbing systems and comes in a variety of sizes. Thin copper tubing is often used for drain, waste and vent (DWV) lines, while thicker copper can be used as supply pipes.
PVC Pipes
PVC pipes are white plastic pipes that are molded into various shapes to create a variety of plumbing supplies. They are commonly used in underground sewage and drainage networks as well as for the conveyance of drinking water. These pipes are a great choice for residential and commercial buildings because they are resistant to corrosion, require minimal maintenance, and are cost-effective.
The most common type of PVC piping is the drain, waste and vent (DWV) system. This system is used in sinks, toilets, liquid handling manufacturing equipment, and other household applications. It is also commonly used for sewage transportation in municipal and commercial structures.
PVC is a durable and versatile material that can withstand a wide range of temperatures, pressures, and chemicals. It is unaffected by most salts, acids, bases, and oxidants, which makes it ideal for a variety of chemical-related applications. It is also non-toxic and resistant to weather conditions, making it an excellent choice for outdoor plumbing projects.
Copper Pipes
Copper pipes are used to transport freshwater throughout your home or building. They’re highly conductive, bacteria-resistant and have been proven to be more efficient than plastic piping in water systems. They’re also eco-friendly, as they release less dangerous chemicals and metals into the environment than other piping materials and can be recycled at their end of life.
Rigid copper is available in many different sizes and grades, including type K, L and M. The pipe grade relates to the thickness of the tube wall, and it’s commonly identified by a blue marking. Type K is thicker than type L, and it’s a popular choice for professional plumbers to install in new plumbing or repair existing residential water supply lines.
While no piping material is perfect, copper has been used for more than 2,500 years to deliver safe drinking water. However, if the pipes are not properly designed, installed and operated, they may experience problems such as pinhole leaks.
ABS Pipes
ABS, which stands for Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, is a sturdy and thick plastic that’s often used for pipes that remove waste material from homes or that protect
electrical wiring. This pipe material is resistant to temperature fluctuations and can withstand impacts like banging or being kicked around during installation or use. It’s also usually black which makes it easy to identify.
Unlike PVC, which requires a two-step process where a purple primer needs to be applied before its cement can be applied, ABS pipes can be instantly bonded with a block of special cement. This can save some time and labor costs.
One downside of ABS pipes is that they contain BPA, which has been linked to cancer. However, the levels of this chemical in ABS pipes are considered safe by the FDA. To ensure the safety of these pipes, you must always follow certain precautions when cutting them. For example, you should use a miter box or vise to secure the pipes before using a tubing cutter.
PEX Pipes
PEX pipes (cross-linked polyethylene) have gained popularity as a replacement for copper and galvanized piping. They are commonly used in radiant floor heating systems and budget-friendly new home construction.
The flexible, soft pipe does not require soldering or tricky threaded connections to install. Instead, it’s connected using a special fitting that snaps over the end of the tubing. It is then crimped with a tool that applies heat, which helps seal the connection and prevent water leaks.
During rough-in, PEX pipes can be attached to existing copper or steel pipes at fixtures with copper stub-outs. They can also be run in parallel to reduce pressure drops and help deliver hot water faster. Unlike copper, PEX is resistant to mineral build-up and creates less water turbulence, allowing for lower flow rates with the same amount of pressure. The pipe is also easily cut with a rotational tool that spins around the pipe or scissors-type sharp tube cutters.
The plumbing system is important in routing dirty water out of your home or business and transferring clean water back in. This connects to any appliances in your home, toilets, sinks, and whatever else needs clean water. A plumber in Modbury can help with any appliance installation, repairs of leaking faucets, blocked drains, and the list goes on.
