Plumbing pipes can be found under the house, inside the walls, and in many different fixtures. Pipes come in a variety of forms, sizes, and materials and are used to connect appliances and transport waste from the home. Some of them transport water, while others transport gas. Plumbing pipes for commercial or residential buildings are available in a number of varieties. Depending on their usage and the place where they are put, plumbing pipes like PEX, copper, and PVC are typically used. Most of the time, you probably don’t give your home’s plumbing pipes much thought, except perhaps when they’re not functioning properly. It’s crucial to comprehend the various sorts of piping accessible and which type will be best suited to fit the needs of your home, whether you’re employing a technician or attempting some do-it-yourself plumbing. Understanding the various plumbing pipes in your house will help you choose the proper type of pipe for your house and spot issues before they become greater problems. The most frequently utilised plumbing pipes in residences are listed below.
1. Stainless Steel Pipes
Though they may be attractive, stainless steel pipes are very expensive. In areas protected from corrosion and close to coastlines, stainless steel piping is employed. This sort of pipe is available in both rigid and flexible forms, and connecting it to other kinds of pipes calls for particular couplings.
2. Linked Polyethylene Piping (PEX)
One of the most major developments in plumbing is the use of PEX pipes. PEX is a hose-like pipe that is incredibly flexible and can curve around corners and other objects. It also eliminates the need for adhesive and uses compression fittings. PEX works well for repairs and retrofits because it is simple to use with existing plumbing, including copper. Despite being more expensive than PVC, PEX requires less maintenance and has lower installation expenses. Over 30 years have passed since the introduction of PEX pipes and fittings.
3. Copper Pipes
Due to its colour and industrial design, copper piping is a desirable option for structures with exposed ductwork. It is a well-liked option for water supply piping lines because it has no health dangers and can withstand pressure and heat with ease. It is available in both rigid and flexible piping.
4. Polyvinyl Chloride Piping (PVC)
PVC pipes are available in a range of forms and thicknesses. They may therefore be used for just about every plumbing purpose. PVC pipes are employed in drainage systems as well as for the distribution of hot and cold drinking water. PVC pipes come in a variety of diameters and configurations depending on the use. Depending on the kind, they may be affordable and simple to install. Best PVC pipe in Kerala might last you up to 70 years. But those are pricey, and their installation is probably best left to the professionals.
5. Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride Piping (CPVC)
As indicated by the name, CPVC is PVC piping that contains more chlorine. CPVC pipes are gentle and less noisy when water runs through them than copper pipes do. In addition to being more versatile than metallic piping, CPVC piping is also fire resistant and insulated to avoid energy loss.
6. Galvanised Pipes
Several years ago, galvanised plumbing was the norm for residential renovations. It is being used less frequently, though, as rust can accumulate inside pipes with small diameters over time. As the scale can come away from the inside of the pipe, if the pipe is old enough, you may notice rust traces in the water that comes from the faucet.
7. Cast Iron Pipes
Cast iron pipes are the heaviest of all plumbing pipes and are often produced as bell and spigot types. Because of their extreme durability, they enable the replacement of some cast iron piping components with PVC. However, because cast iron pipes are so heavy, additional supports are needed when installing them. Systems for water distribution and subterranean installations, including the major pipes for drainage and sewage systems, are two common applications for cast iron pipes.
8. Brass Pipes
Brass pipes have a great resistance to rust, regardless of their copper content (67% to 85%). The red brass pipe, an alloy that is 85% copper, is what gives brass the greatest grade it has to offer. Brass pipes are made of a durable material that does not rust internally and does not experience friction losses.
Considerations to Make Before Purchasing a Plumbing Pipe
Before purchasing a plumbing pipe, there are a few things to keep in mind. You can choose wisely with the aid of these factors. They consist of:
1. Plumbing Use
A pipe that can resist high water pressure is necessary when installing plumbing for a business building. To handle the pressure, the pipe needs to be large and sturdy. Since they are strong and can withstand high pressure, plastic pipes are strongly recommended.
2. Fittings
The initial step in choosing the one that is best for you is selecting the appropriate fittings. The majority of pipes are underground and concealed by walls and concrete, thus picking the appropriate soil pipe fittings and materials is crucial. Different pipe materials have an impact on the overall cost. Before making a choice, make sure to consult the best water pipe manufacturers in Kerala.
3. Exposure To Sunlight
The exterior of the pipes may become damaged over time by ultraviolet rays, which makes them more prone to damage over short periods of time. You should insulate your pipes to guard against UV light damage. This is especially true of PVC pipes, which are not normally advised to transport hot water and are less heat-resistant than other piping options.
4. Quality Of Water
The total chemistry of the water in your house or place of business affects your water’s corrosion potential, often known as its aggressiveness. This is significant since not all plumbing products can withstand caustic water and other elements. Your clothing could not look good if you use really acidic water. If this is the case, you may not want to use a large amount of metal to prevent iron, copper, or other elements from seeping into the water and colouring your clothing. Additionally, because they are made of copper, copper pipes are more likely to pit and develop pinhole leaks, which can result in the formation of mould or bacteria.
Conclusion
Avoid making an impulsive purchase of plumbing pipes. To identify the sort of plumbing you require, consider the aforementioned elements, and then select a pipe based on its quality and material. Although you might have to dig deeper into your wallet, doing so will help you save a lot of money.
