We’re often get asked ‘what are the best pipes for house plumbing’? Selecting your plumbing pipes depends on the application in which it will be used. If you’re a DIY plumber make sure you read this article – DIY plumbing, when you should and when you shouldn’t. PEX, Copper and PVC are normally used, but you can also install black, galvanized and brass pipes. Here’s a rundown on the different types of plumbing pipes for your home or commercial property.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel is by far the best, but also the most expensive pipe material. Stainless steel is corrosion resistant making it suitable for coastal and/or humid areas.
Benefits of stainless steel include:
- Corrosion-resistant.
- Can withstand high flow rates.
- Quick and easy to install.
- Stainless steel is easy to cut and bend if needed.
- Stainless steel has a long life expectancy, which saves you money as it doesn’t need to be replaced.
- Requires to additional coating.
- Require no maintenance.
- Can be used in all type of water.
- Full recyclable!
PEX piping
PEX is a more popular choice than CPVC and copper. It’s a flexible plastic that is being used instead of other materials. Although it can be expensive to install, it requires little to no maintenance thereafter. This pipe material is more suitable for residential and small business use. For commercial properties, we recommend something stronger like stainless steel.
Benefits of PEX
- It’s flexible, meaning it expands and contracts as needed.
- Freeze resistant.
- Colour coded making it easier to identify hot and cold lines.
- ‘Water hammer’ noise is reduced.
- Can be connected to existing metal supply lines with correct fitting.
Copper piping
Probably the longest standing material used in plumbing pipes. It’s been around for over 50 years and has proved to be reliable and resistant. The challenge with copper piping is that it needs to be soldered correctly by a professional. If it isn’t it can cause issues.
Benefits of copper
- Long life expectancy
- Can be recycled
- Extremely durable
- Won’t pollute your drinking water
PVC piping
PVC piping is typically used for cold and hot potable water or for sewage. PVC piping is also often used in the sink, toilet, and bathtub drain lines. It’s rust-resistant and can handle high water pressure. It’s also pretty cheap. PVC isn’t the most environmentally friendly material.
Galvanized plumbing pipes
These are often used to transport potable or greywater. They tend to rust up which is why they aren’t recommended for residential or commercial plumbing purposes.
Brass pipes
Like many of the other pipe materials, brass is also rust resistant. It needs to be 67% to 85% copper to be rust resistant. Brass pipes are easy to thread and great the transfer of hot water.
What are the best pipes for house plumbing?
Our recommendations are stainless steel, copper and brass. If you’re doing some DIY plumbing and need a hand, give us a call. We can assist you with all your residential and commercial plumbing needs.