Peter Steven 
Whether you’re remodeling or building a new house, choosing the best pipes for plumbing is essential. This will ensure the water system performs well and won’t cause problems later on.
There are several options when it comes to pipe material, so it’s important to consider the type of space you have as well as your budget. Below are some of the most popular types of piping used today to help you make your decision.
PEX Pipe
PEX pipe is a popular choice for plumbing because it is both flexible and resistant to damage. It is also very affordable, making it an excellent choice for small repairs and complete repipes.
It is a versatile pipe material that is resistant to corrosion and can be used in both gravity and pressure systems. It is also very durable and has a long service interval.
The best part is that it costs a fraction of copper and requires much less soldering. This makes it a great choice for both home and commercial projects.
In addition to its cost benefits, PEX piping is easy to install and can be connected with various methods, including quick-connect fittings. It also doesn’t require the use of acid fluxes, so it is safer to work with.
Copper Pipe
Copper is a popular choice for plumbing because it offers several advantages over plastics. It can withstand a variety of conditions, including extreme temperatures and humidity.
It is also a non-toxic and biostatic material, meaning it will not absorb or hold other substances that could be harmful to the water supply. It is also fire-resistant and won’t carry fire through walls, ceilings or floors.
Another advantage of copper pipe is its ability to be recycled. Unlike plastic piping, which has little chance of being reused, copper pipes can be broken down and reconstituted into new tubing.
There are several different types of copper piping, each with its own benefits and uses. Type K is usually reserved for underground piping, while type L and M are more common choices for indoor plumbing, including water supply pipes and fire sprinklers. Both are available in rigid and flexible forms. The rigid type is more expensive and can’t be bent, but it has better durability than flexible copper tubing.
Cast Iron Pipe
Cast iron is a durable and long-lasting pipe option that’s been used in plumbing systems since the 19th century. This is because of their strength and ability to withstand heavy loads and high pressure.
However, cast iron pipes can corrode and rust over time. This can lead to leaking pipes, and they may even need to be replaced.
This can be costly and dangerous, especially if your plumbing is older. It’s important to keep track of the condition of your pipes so you can catch problems before they get out of hand.
In addition to their durability, cast iron pipes are also highly resistant to fire. This is because they do not burn or emit gases when they’re heated to temperatures that occur during structure fires.
Polybutylene Pipe
Polybutylene pipe was used by builders in the 1980s and 1990s as a low-cost, easy-to-install alternative to copper. It was also extremely durable, which made it popular for many plumbing jobs.
However, as the water in a home passes through disinfectants like chlorine, these chemicals react with the plastic, which makes it brittle and eventually breaks. When it does, a leak occurs that can cause major damage to your home.
This can lead to a wide range of issues, from rotting foundations to extensive water damage to personal belongings. To protect your home and family, it is best to replace polybutylene pipes with a more modern material.
These pipes are prone to leaking, so it’s important to have them replaced as soon as possible. This will prevent any lingering problems and save you money on your water bill in the long run. You can call a licensed plumber to get an estimate for replacing your polybutylene piping with PEX or CPVC.