Which type of plumbing pipe is best?

The best type of plumbing pipe is PEX Pipe or Copper Pipe due to its wide usage, durability, and use of non-toxic materials.

Ever wondered which type of plumbing pipe is best? At Al Coronado, we get asked this question a lot. Since pipes used for plumbing can come in everything from metal to plastic, it’s no wonder why it can be a confusing question – especially for people looking to do their own repairs.

We’ve gone ahead and covered the different types of plumbing pipe below, noting which application each would be best for. This should help you to understand which plumbing pipe is best for your needs.

Plex Plumbing Pipes
Copper Plumbing Pipes
PVC Plumbing Pipes

PEX Plumbing Pipes

One of the newest and biggest innovations in plumbing pipe is PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) piping. Created in the 1980s but not used until the late 1990s in-home applications, it is considered by many as the best plumbing pipe option.

PEX Piping can be snaked through a house and bent through high-beams or placed around corners in ways no other types of plumbing pipe can be. It requires no adhesive and can withstand freezing conditions better than most other plumbing pipe types (except copper).

In most applications, it is spliced into the existing pipe (including copper), which makes it a viable choice for retrofitting old homes. Furthermore, there is no risk or known issues with using it for the transportation of drinking water, as seen with standard PVC piping.

PEX Piping Uses

– Retrofitting Older Homes
– Can Be Used For The Same Applications As Copper Piping
– In Tight Space Uses Where Corners and Angles May Cause Problems

Copper Plumbing Pipes

For over 60 years copper piping has been the standard go-to in homes. This is due to the durability and lifespan of copper piping. In most scenarios, a copper pipe can handle extreme temperature fluctuation and is resistant to corrosion. Because copper is a solid metal it is safe to use for the transportation of drinking water and will not cause debris. Because of this, copper is typically used in some applications and not others and is considered to be one of the best types of plumbing pipes.

One of the major problems with copper piping, however, is the cost. Copper tends to be one of the most expensive types of plumbing pipes.

Copper Piping Uses

– Drinking-Water
– Refrigerant and Water Lines
– Applications Requiring A Tight Seal
– Service Lines That Run Underground

PVC Plumbing Pipes

Another option for plumbing pipe is PVC (polyvinyl chloride). PVC is most frequently used in homes built after the year 2000. It is versatile and extremely affordable, making it a great option for keeping the cost of repiping down.

PVC is great for home applications since it does not rust or corrode and will not need to be replaced unless it cracks or begins leaking. Another reason to use PVC pipes is that they require no welding or metalwork. Finally, PVC is incredibly durable and will not bend under pressure, making it a great choice for high-pressure water uses.

One of the main drawbacks of PVC piping, however, is that it cannot be used for hot water delivery. When exposed to the extreme heat of hot water temperatures, PVC piping will begin to warp and bend over time. In addition, PVC piping may also degrade or change in structure when it is exposed to UV light for long durations of time. Because of this, it is a great option for indoor and underground piping.

Another important point about PVC: it’s not rated for use with drinking water, due to the toxic levels of certain compounds found in PVC material.

PVC Piping Uses

Sink Drain Lines
Toilet Drain Lines
Shower & Bathtub Drain Lines
Main Water Supply Line
High-Pressure Application

Another type of PVC pipe is CPVC pipe. CPVC has extra chloride added to its composition, which adds extra durability and will not degrade with liquids. This allows CPVC pipes to be used as a safe option for handling drinking water.

CPVC can be used for the same applications as copper piping but is often considered a better option due to its insulation. This prevents energy loss in hot or cold applications throughout the house. Another added benefit of CPVC is that it’s more pliable than metal tubing, which allows for extra versatility.

CPVC Piping Uses

Hot and Cold Water Delivery
Drinking-Water Delivery
Waste and Water Disposal

The Best Type of Plumbing Pipe: Conclusion

As you can see, there are many types of plumbing pipes, and the use of each type comes down to the application in question. What pipe you choose is largely determined by what the project or job requires. If you have any concerns or questions about which type of plumbing pipe to use in your specific application, we recommend contacting Al Coronado Plumbing. Our technicians are on standby to help you with your home’s needs.