PVC can last even longer than steel or copper, which are some of the most durable metals for plumbing pipes. Ability to handle pressure: PVC can withstand high water pressure, which makes it an excellent choice for the main supply line in your home.
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Pipe HDPE pipes, manufactured from polyethylene resin, are a popular choice for water mains because of its durability and non-corrosive qualities.
PEX is often the better choice for residential plumbing due to its flexibility, durability, and resistance to freezing, reducing the need for fittings and minimizing leak risks. Its ease of installation and long-term reliability generally make it a more practical option over CPVC for most homes.
CPVC plumbing pipes are widely used in homes as they are highly durable and can resist high temperatures. CPVC does not conduct electricity, making it a safer option for your home than copper. The easy installation of CPVC makes it best for home projects.
Copper is great for water supply lines and heating systems but not as good for drain or waste lines because it corrodes over time. PEX is easier to install than copper but isn't as strong (the tradeoff is that it's more resistant to corrosion).
It has become expensive, can still corrode based on pH levels of water, and in cold climates, frozen water can cause copper pipes to burst.
No single pipe/tubing system used in the US has been 100% problem free, and PEX is no exception. Some of the disadvantages of PEX include: It cannot be used outside. It cannot be recycled.
Ability to handle pressure: PVC can withstand high water pressure, which makes it an excellent choice for the main supply line in your home.
PVC is most commonly used for drain, waste, and vent lines. It is not recommended for use in potable water lines because it can leach chemicals into the water.
Hep2o (polybutylene) and PEX (polyethylene) are both suitable for potable water.
Material Concerns: One of the primary concerns about Pex plumbing is the material itself. While Pex pipes are undoubtedly flexible, making them easier to install in tight spaces, they are not as durable as traditional materials like copper or even PVC.
Cost Comparison
Galvanized steel pipes tend to be the most expensive option and can be costly to install and repair. Copper can be a costly material, but it may still be a good choice if you value durability and reliability.
Longevity. In the right conditions, PVC pipes can last upwards of 70 years. Both ABS and PEX pipes have about 40-50 years of life.
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe is a good choice for underground water lines because of how the pipe is connected. Rather than using joints, which can leak, or glues and cement, which can degrade over time, HDPE pipe is connected via plastic fusion.
Main water line replacement costs an average of $1,713 but ranges from $646 to $2,824, depending on the length and depth of the line, materials, and method. A plumber can assess your project.
PVC has a peak temperature threshold of 140° Fahrenheit. For applications requiring temperatures above that, CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) is recommended. CPVC offers some benefits over PVC, but at a slightly higher price point.
PVC piping is better for water distribution in residential settings due to its corrosion resistance and ease of installation. Steel pipes, often galvanized, are better suited for industrial applications or where high pressure and temperature resistance are needed.
Today, copper and PEX are considered the best types of pipes for residential plumbing, and your insurance provider will love you for having them. On the other hand, PVC is less favored while Galvanized is considered one of the worst types.
PEX often lasts around 50 years. However, PEX is more durable and has more flexibility than PVC and CPVC. Also, because PEX is made from cross-linked polyethylene, it won't corrode.
PVC and CPVC have more strength and durability than PEX because they are more rigid, making them better suited to outdoor applications where the piping may be subjected to trauma. Because of its rigidity, PVC is less flexible than PEX. You must install an elbow instead of simply bending it around a right angle.
Generally speaking, the main pipeline from the street to your home is either ¾ or 1 inch in diameter. Supply pipes are ¾ inch in diameter and individual components are ½ inch in diameter.
If it doesn't get damaged, PVC pipes will last forever. If you have high water pressure, PVC pipe is the best option. It's often used for the home's main water supply line for this reason. It's also a lightweight material that's much easier to work with than galvanized steel or copper.
Currently, PEX plumbing is one of the most widely used plumbing systems around the world. It was temporarily banned in California for a while due to concerns about toxic materials but this was later disproven by laboratory tests.
PEX Pipe Is Vulnerable
Rodents Chewing Through PEX Pipe is a common problem in our area. It doesn't matter how old your home is, if you have an attic, you need to watch for rodent damage to PEX Pipe or PVC. If you're hearing rustling noises coming from the attic, it's time to do an inspection.
PEX Pipe Class Action Lawsuits
A number of manufacturers, including Uponor, Viega, Nibco and Zurn, have already been sued over their PEX piping products.