4 Types of Plumbing Pipes Used in Building Construction

Plumbing pipes are used differently in building construction. Their use depends on the type of materials and the plumbing requirements of different areas in the property. Ideally, for small residential homes, the most common type of plumbing pipes are used for water delivery and waste water disposal. Some homes have heating systems that require a different set of pipes like gas pipes for natural gas powered heaters at home.

Other types of plumbing systems are the venting or drainage system and the stormwater or drainage system. Learn more about the different plumbing pipes used by construction plumbing contractors mentioned below:

PEX Pipes

PEX pipes are the most common type of plumbing pipe in construction plumbing for residential homes. They are usually used as water supply lines due to their reliable serviceability both for hot and cold water. It is also one of the most durable piping materials available in the market that does not leave traces of corrosion and rush into the water. The flexible material is easy to install and maneuvered compared to the more rigid and more affordable PVC pipe. It can be connected in different methods and works well with different types of plumbing tools.

PVC Pipes

Another affordable plumbing pipe that has low or has no risk for rusting and corrosion are PVC pipes. They are also used as water supply pipes but are most preferred for drain, waste and vent pipe use. The material is best suited for areas that can handle low-temperature and are exposed to low-pressure. It works well as a toilet drain line but is not advisable to be used for water supply lines that carry highly pressurised water. The smaller PVC pipes are commonly used for sink drains and plumbing vents to prevent air locks that are common with drainage pipes.

Copper Pipes

Copper pipes are also highly preferred for installing water supply lines in both residential and commercial properties. They are one of the most popular materials for pipes used in showers, tubs, sinks and other plumbing fixtures for both old and new residential properties. The material is one of the preferred construction plumbing materials because its material has properties that do not affect the quality of water that enters a property’s water supply. To completely enjoy the benefits of copper pipes in your home, have it installed by an experienced plumber to ensure proper sealing in connections and joints.

Galvanized Pipes

Water supply and drain lines of older residential and commercial properties are usually made up of galvanized plumbing pipes. Although they are not usually used in new home plumbing installations, there are still plenty of homes that have this type of plumbing pipe. It is one of the best options back when lead pipe was considered to be the best plumbing pipe material available for residential homes. Galvanized pipes are the go-to-type pipes back in the day because of their lead-free characteristics. However, these types of pipes can rust over time and are advised to be upgraded and replaced with plumbing pipes made from modern materials.

There are plenty of different types available for construction purposes. However, this generation currently uses PVC pipes more often than the other types of plumbing pipes available in the market. However, you should still seek advice from your trusted plumbing contractor when choosing the right type of brand for your plumbing requirements at home. Always go for a material with the best cost but the highest expected durability your budget can afford.