Ethan Clarke
Repiping your home is a big job, and choosing the right pipe material is crucial. While copper pipes have been the traditional choice, plastic pipes, such as PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) and CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride), are gaining popularity. PEX pipes are known for their flexibility, ease of installation, and cost-effectiveness, while CPVC pipes are popular for their ability to withstand high temperatures and their affordability. However, it's important to consider factors like regional climate and the presence of a basement or crawl space when selecting the best pipe material for your home.
Characteristics and values of repipe plastic pipe:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost | More affordable than copper |
| Installation | Easier to install than copper, flexible, lightweight, cuts easily, uses compression fittings |
| Durability | Quite durable, but can split in rare instances |
| Safety | Safe for drinking water, unlike PVC |
| Maintenance | Resistant to corrosion and acidic water |
| Lifespan | Expected lifespan of 50+ years |
| Suitability | Well-suited for existing structures and remodels, ideal for smaller projects |
| Environmental impact | Concerns over effects on the environment |
| Cleanliness | Creates a sealed space to protect furniture from plumbing debris |
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What You'll Learn
PEX pipes are a popular plastic piping option
PEX piping is versatile and flexible, making it a favourite for modern-day builders. It is also a popular choice for in-floor radiant heating systems. PEX is also less noisy than metal piping, eliminating the "water hammer" noise associated with metal pipes.
There are three grades of PEX supply: PEX-A, PEX-B, and PEX-C, which are manufactured differently, with PEX-A being slightly more flexible. PEX piping is also colour-coded, with red and blue pipes to indicate hot and cold supply lines.
While PEX is a popular option, it does have some drawbacks. It cannot be directly connected to a water heater and is not suitable for outdoor use, as UV rays cause PEX to break down. PEX also requires special connectors and tools for installation, and it cannot currently be recycled.
Overall, PEX pipes are a popular plastic piping option for repiping due to their cost-effectiveness, ease of installation, durability, and flexibility.
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CPVC is a cheaper alternative to copper pipes
Copper pipes are the oldest piping system currently in use and are considered the gold standard in home plumbing systems. Copper has been used in plumbing applications for more than 70 years and is widely regarded as a reliable and high-quality material. Copper pipes can last 75-100 years and are known for their durability and corrosion resistance. They are also recyclable, which is an attractive quality for contractors and building owners.
However, copper pipes are expensive and vulnerable to acidic water, which can lead to pinhole leaks. They also need to be insulated and are generally louder than other pipes. Copper pipes require larger sections of drywall to be removed during installation and soldering with an open flame, which can be hazardous.
In recent years, there has been a trend to use alternative materials like PEX and CPVC in new constructions and remodels. CPVC, or Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride, is a plastic material commonly used in plumbing systems. It is a cheaper alternative to copper pipes and has been installed successfully for nearly 50 years. CPVC is also resistant to acidity and other chemicals in the water. It can be used for hot and cold water lines and is well-suited for installation in existing structures.
While CPVC is a more cost-effective option than copper, it may not be the best choice for an entire plumbing system. Over time, CPVC can become brittle and may crack or burst. It is also susceptible to leaking if it is not installed according to the manufacturer's specific guidelines. Additionally, CPVC is not universally compliant, and some US cities or states have restrictions on its use.
Overall, CPVC is a viable option for those seeking a cheaper alternative to copper pipes, especially for smaller projects. However, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks of CPVC, such as its durability and compliance issues, before making a decision.
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Copper pipes are durable but expensive
Copper pipes are the oldest piping system currently in use and are considered the gold standard in home plumbing systems. They are incredibly durable, strong, and flexible, and can last 75-100 years. Copper pipes are also naturally UV-resistant, antibacterial, and fire-resistant. They are a good choice for those who live in earthquake zones or areas where forest fires are common.
However, copper pipes are expensive when compared to plastic piping options such as PEX, CPVC, or PVC. PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene, is the new standard when it comes to repiping houses. It is made of plastic, affordable, durable, and easy to work with. It is also lighter in weight, reducing shipping costs. CPVC, or chlorinated polyvinyl chloride, is another plastic material commonly used in plumbing systems. It is popular because it can withstand high temperatures, making it ideal for drainpipes and hot water pipes, and because it is more cost-effective than many other piping choices.
While copper pipes are more expensive, they can save you money on bottled water in the long run as they do not impart any flavours into the water. They are also considered more attractive than PVC pipes. Copper pipes are also environmentally friendly as they can be recycled and their manufacturing process releases fewer dangerous emissions and chemicals into the environment.
Overall, while copper pipes are durable, they are more expensive than plastic piping alternatives.
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Polybutylene pipes are plastic resin, but prone to damage
Plastic pipes are a common choice for repiping homes. They are known for their cost-effectiveness, ease of installation, and durability. However, not all plastic pipes are created equal, and some types, like Polybutylene (PB) pipes, have come under scrutiny for their reliability issues.
Polybutylene pipes are made from plastic resin and were once considered a groundbreaking material for plumbing pipes due to their flexibility, ease of installation, and resistance to freezing temperatures. They were widely used in the 1980s and early 1990s, with an estimated 6-10 million homes in the United States, particularly in the Southern states, incorporating them.
However, despite their initial popularity, Polybutylene pipes have since been found to be prone to damage and failure. The main issue lies in their weak oxidative stability, which makes them vulnerable to chlorine degradation when exposed to hot chlorinated water. This degradation leads to oxidative embrittlement, causing the pipes to become brittle and prone to cracking or bursting.
Additionally, Polybutylene pipes exhibit polymorphic behaviour, which means they can exist in different crystalline forms with distinct physical properties. This polymorphism complicates efforts to predict how the pipes will perform under different conditions, further contributing to their reliability concerns. Other factors, such as disinfectants and the mineral content in the water, can also cause small holes or pitting corrosion in Polybutylene pipes.
Due to the high risk of leaks and bursts associated with Polybutylene pipes, the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors recommends replacing them. While there are no regulations mandating their replacement, plumbers and inspectors advise homeowners to consider the potential for costly plumbing failures and the health risks associated with unseen leaks, such as the growth of harmful mould.
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PVC pipes are durable but unsuitable for hot water
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes are a popular choice for plumbing due to their affordability, durability, flexibility, and versatility. They are lightweight and easy to install, with an expected lifespan of over 100 years for underground pipes. PVC pipes are also highly resistant to corrosion and chemical damage.
However, one significant drawback of PVC pipes is their unsuitability for hot water applications. PVC is a type of plastic, and plastic pipes, in general, cannot withstand very high temperatures. If the water temperature exceeds the pipe's maximum threshold, the pipe may pull apart, balloon, or split, or even melt at the joints. This issue can lead to leaks and costly repairs.
The maximum working temperature for hot water in PVC pipes varies by brand and type. For example, some PVC pipes have a maximum working temperature of 82°C, while others can handle up to 92°C or even 95°C. However, even at these higher temperatures, the water should not reach boiling point, as this could destroy the pipes.
For hot water applications, chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) pipes are a better option. CPVC pipes have a higher chlorine content than standard PVC pipes, allowing them to withstand a wider range of temperatures. CPVC pipes are rated for hot water use and are a popular choice for water piping systems in residential and commercial constructions. While CPVC pipes are more expensive than standard PVC, they offer greater versatility and durability for hot water systems.
In summary, while PVC pipes are durable and have numerous advantages, they are not suitable for hot water due to their limited heat resistance. For hot water plumbing, CPVC or alternative materials like copper, PEX, or metal pipes may be preferable options to avoid overheating issues and potential leaks.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic pipes are a more cost-effective alternative to copper pipes. They are also easier to install and lighter in weight, reducing shipping costs. PEX pipes, for example, are flexible and easy to work with, making them a favourite for modern-day builders.
Plastic pipes can become brittle and crack or burst over time. They are also not suitable for use with hot water as they warp when exposed to heat.
Copper pipes are the oldest piping system currently in use and are considered the gold standard in home plumbing systems. They can last 75-100 years, but they are generally more expensive and require more wall destruction during installation. CPVC pipes are another alternative; they are cheaper than copper pipes, easier to work with, and well-suited for installation in existing structures.
