The truth is that plumbing tasks can be quite challenging, particularly if a novice in DIY plumbing. Whether you are replacing old piping or making home renovations, the first thing is to determine the Water Supply Pipe material. You can make the process of choosing piping an easy one if you know the different types of plumbing piping materials.

Before choosing the type of pipe, you should consider its purpose. For instance, will you use it to deliver water or to drain it? Is it for indoor, underground, or outdoor applications? You will have to answer several questions before you can make a purchase. These are the major materials used to make plumbing pipes.

PVC

PVC is an abbreviation for polyvinyl chloride. Plumbers love PVC fittings for many reasons. When you look at various water pipes, PVC is quite popular because its lightweight has impressive structural integrity and low cost. Those are only a few qualities it offers. PVC uses a system of fittings and pipe that can be joined together with primer and cement.

The good thing about PVC is that it is cheaper and does not last. However, it has a share of its drawbacks. First, it is not suitable for hot water as it breaks down when the temperature is higher than 140 degrees Fahrenheit. It is not recommended for use as a waterpipe because when it is exposed to UV, it can corrode and leach toxins into the water.

CPVC

CPVC stands for chlorinated polyvinyl chloride. Ideally, this is a PVC pipe that has undergone the chlorination process. This is meant to solve most of the PVC’s drawbacks. As a result, it can withstand higher temperatures than regular PVC and is a low-cost plumbing option. Also, it is not expensive, hard to install, or heavy as copper pipes. However, they are prone to cracking during winter because of the water freezing. Therefore, they are suitable for indoor use only.

PEX

PEX or cross-linked polyethylene is plastic tubing made from dense polyethylene. Ideally, it is an innovation when it comes to the world of plumbing. It is durable and can withstand high temperatures and pressures. Being inexpensive, it is costs less to purchase and install. What sets PEX pipe apart from others is its flexibility. You can curve it, bend it, and snuck to pass around corners using fittings. It makes installation easier as compared to other forms of typing.

PEX water pipes are resistant to corrosion and chemicals. The tubing degrades quickly when exposed to UV light. Therefore, it is not suitable for outdoor applications.

Copper

For many years, copper has been used for plumbing applications. That is because of its qualities that include excellent temperature rating, chemical resistances, and high-pressure tolerance. Since it is a tough material, it can last for quite long. This material is perfect for use where temperatures are low. That is because it does not burst or crack when the water inside freezes as the case with CPVC and PVC.