When it comes to your plumbing system, choosing the right pipes is an important decision that impacts how efficient your plumbing truly is. The wrong material can cause catastrophic and expensive issues like leaks, corrosion, and replacements down the line. Plumbing is something that should be heavily considered and taken seriously to ensure that it is able to withstand time, wear, and tear throughout its lifespan. Leaks and plumbing problems can be some of the most costly issues that a homeowner will run into. At All Year Cooling and Plumbing, we have years of expertise in helping homeowners choose the most durable and efficient options for their homes. We’re going to go over how to choose the right pipes for durability and how we can assist you in your plumbing needs for new pipes.
What is “Durability” in Plumbing and Why Does It Matter?
When we say durability in plumbing, we are usually talking about the pipe’s resistance to corrosion, temperature changes, and pressure over time. Plumbing should last a homeowner for years without having any issues, so it’s important to take that into consideration when looking at different materials. On top of that, every home is different, which means that factors like water hardness and quality, home age, and the local climate can affect the pipes’ lifespan. That’s why it is important to choose a material that makes sense for the home and location. Not all pipes are a one-size-fits-all situation, but at All Year Cooling and Plumbing, we can help you figure out what material is best for your particular situation.
Common Pipe Materials to Choose From
There are many different pipe materials on the market for plumbing pipes, but they aren’t all created equally. We are going to give you a rundown of the pipes, what their pros and cons are, as well as what kind of home, climate, and water quality they are best suited for.
PEX: Cross-Linked Polyethylene
PEX pipes are flexible, resistant to scale and chlorine, and fairly easy to install. They are typically a popular option for residential water lines and renovations due to these factors. The cons of this type of pipe are that they can be sensitive to UV light, which makes them unsuitable for outdoor exposure.
Copper Pipes
Copper pipes are some of the longest-lasting options, as they can last over 50 years. They are also corrosion-resistant and recyclable. Typically, they are used in areas that need long-term plumbing and reliability. However, this option is more expensive than others because of how durable they are, and it’s important to note that they can be affected by acidic water.
PVC: Polyvinyl Chloride
PVC pipes are some of the most affordable and lightweight options that are also resistant to corrosion. Typically, these are some of the most common pipe types, especially for drainage or vent systems. Keep in mind that they can’t handle high heat, and they have a tendency to become brittle over time, meaning that replacements could be needed sooner rather than later.
CPVC: Chlorinated PVC
CPVC pipes are a little different than typical PVC pipes, as they are able to handle hot water and are corrosion-resistant. They’re the perfect pipe for hot and cold water systems in warmer climates due to this. However, they do become brittle with age, just like PVC pipes, and they are not ideal in cooler climates that face freezing temperatures.
Galvanized Steel Pipes
Galvanized steel pipes are some of the most durable and strong options available, but they do have some cons, such as susceptibility to internal rusting and the potential to restrict water flow over time. Typically, these pipes aren’t installed in newer homes, but they are found in older homes and are being phased out by other options like copper pipes.
What Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pipe
It might feel overwhelming now, seeing all of the pipe options and the different pros and cons that come along with them. If you’re still not sure what option might be best for you, let’s look at some of the factors that you should consider when it comes to choosing a pipe material.
Water Quality: Understand your water quality, what chemicals you may have in it, and the hardness of the water. Harder and more acidic water may corrode certain materials faster.
Temperature and Climate: Consider where you live and what the temperatures are typically like. Make note of whether you experience freezing temperatures or very hot temperatures, as some pipe types are not suited for extreme weather fluctuations, while others are better suited for colder or warmer environments.
Budget: Budget is something that we can’t forget about, but it’s crucial to look at short-term affordability vs. long-term savings for each pipe type. Some cheaper options may need to be replaced much sooner, while spending more upfront can help you avoid replacement for decades.
Building Type: Consider if you are looking for piping options for your own residence or for commercial or multi-unit structures, as some pipe types are better suited for those.
Signs That You Need to Replace or Upgrade Plumbing Pipes
When it comes to your plumbing pipes, there are a few different things to look out for when deciding if it’s time to replace or upgrade them.
If you’re experiencing leaks, low water pressure, or discoloration of the water
Unusual noises that sound like banging or clanking
Visible corrosion on exposed pipes
Aging pipes in homes that are over 50 years old and have not been upgraded
High water bills that are unexplained, which could indicate a hidden leak
Slow-draining drains that cannot be fixed with unclogging
Professional Installation for New Plumbing Pipes
If you have decided that it’s time for an upgrade or a replacement of your plumbing pipes, it’s important to work with professionals who have experience with plumbing. At All Year Cooling and Plumbing, we have years of experience, and we can help you choose a pipe material that’s best for your area, as well as handle the professional installation. Having a professional do the install helps with the durability and longevity of the pipes. Even the most durable material won’t last if it’s not installed properly, making professional installation that much more important. Contact us at All Year Cooling and Plumbing so that we can get you set up with an inspection on your plumbing pipes and get them upgraded and replaced with no problem!