IN THIS POST:
– PVC Pipes
– PEX Pipes
– Copper Pipes
– ABS Pipes
– Concrete Pipes
– Galvanised Pipes
Whether you’re building a new home or renovating an old one, there are several different types of plumbing pipes that you’ll be using during the project. Stay with us as we cover all of the different materials used for plumbing pipes, highlighting their pros and cons along the way.
Types of Plumbing Pipes
All plumbing pipes can be categorised into two main types based on their use. The two types of pipes are:
- Supply Pipes
- Drainage Pipes
Let’s discuss both the types and the different materials used to make these pipes below.
Supply Pipes
All pipes that distribute water from the main supply in the neighbourhood or building to your house or apartment are considered as supply pipes. These supply or service pipes are manufactured from the following materials:
PVC Pipes
Polyvinyl chloride or PVC is a type of pipe that is lightweight and easy to install in comparison to traditionally used steel, iron, or concrete pipes.
Pros:
- Cheaper cost
- Easy installation and maintenance
- Lightweight construction
- Can be used for both supply and drainage
- Available in varying diameters with a range of joint fittings as well
Cons:
- Requires proper cutting tools to create sections
- Pipes must be glued together to form joints
- Joints may leak if the glue does not form a strong bond
- Sunlight can result in severe wear and tear over time
- Not suitable for high water pressure levels or hot water pipes
PEX Pipes
Cross-linked polyethylene or PEX is one of the newest types of plumbing pipes. It is only used for water supply.
Pros:
- Sustains high water pressure
- Flexible material that can weave through small spaces
- Ideal pipe for DIY projects
- Connects with different pipes easily
- Cost-effective
Cons:
- Only used for water supply channels
- Might result in leaks if the connections are not fitted properly
Copper Pipes
Pipes made from copper are chosen when the groundwater being supplied into the house is highly corrosive and can cause damage to other metallic pipe materials.
Pros:
- High resistance to corrosion
- Strong material for high water pressure levels
- Easily available in long lengths
- Can be used with hot water channels
- Both flexible and rigid copper pipes are easily available
Cons:
- Might be costlier than other options
- Needs to be cut with a tool for sectioning
- Connecting two copper pipes together requires professional expertise
Drainage Pipes
Drainage pipes carry wastewater out of the house and into the local sewers. Most of these are present underground and can be made of the following materials:
ABS Pipes
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene or ABS is a material used to create drainage pipes that resemble PVC pipes but are slightly softer to the touch.
Pros:
- Stronger than PVC pipes
- Ideal pipes for colder climates
- Can be used underground
Cons:
- Low tolerance of heat
- Can deform in hot climates
Concrete Pipes
Large sections of concrete pipes are needed at every construction site to connect the home’s wastewater system with the main sewers in the area.
Pros:
- Available in varying diameters
- Pure concrete construction with no reinforcement needed
- Cast in moulds and readily available for use
- Economical and durable
Cons:
- Prone to corrosion due to regular contact with bacteria in wastewater
- Heavy pipes which often require cranes for transportation
Galvanised Pipes
These pipes are generally made from iron or steel that has been coated with zinc. Galvanised pipes are manufactured by pouring molten steel or iron into moulds.
Pros:
- Available as both galvanised iron pipes and galvanised steel pipes
- Very strong pipes that are extremely durable
- Varying thickness and diameters available
Cons:
- Only available in short lengths
- Prone to corrosion over long periods of time
- Costlier than other options
Now you know all about the different types of plumbing pipes that can be used while building or renovating a home. Check out more benefits of installing a plastic-based pipe system in your home. You can also read more on concealed vs. exposed plumbing and how to prevent corrosion in your pipes. Stay tuned to Zameen Blog for more informative posts. You can also send us your comments and suggestions at blog@zameen.com.
