Plumbing pipes are an important part of our day-to-day lives. The plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Atlanta offer a variety of plumbing services to help you improve the safety and reliability of your plumbing system. Our team provides professional installation, broken pipe repair, and replacement services, but many customers aren't sure which variety of pipe materials to use for their plumbing needs. Many types of plumbing pipes are available on the market today, including metal and plastic. Understanding the different types out there will help you make an informed decision.
Metal Pipes
Plumbers often use metal pipes. They are manufactured from different kinds of metal and provide a variety of advantages and disadvantages.
- Copper pipesare a reliable plumbing material that has been in use for centuries. Copper is a strong material choice for plumbing because it is resistant to corrosion, allowing it to perform well in hot and cold climates. Copper piping can also be costly and requires an experienced plumber and additional fittings for installation.
- Galvanized steel pipesare also great for supplying water to homes. The major downside to galvanized steel is that it can rust over time, which restricts water flow and can cause other plumbing problems. These pipes often require broken pipe repair services more frequently than other materials. Newer pipes made from galvanized steel are usually coated with other materials to improve resistance to rust and deterioration.
Plastic Pipes
Plastic pipes are a popular alternative to conventional metal. They come in various sizes and shapes and can be installed quickly without heavy machinery, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious property owners.
- CPVC or Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride pipesare often used for residential purposes. They can be used to transport water in high-pressure situations and can be used as pipes for sinks and toilets and other home appliances such as washing machines. CPVC pipes are popular because they are cost-effective, lightweight, as well as resistant to corrosion and rusting. The one real drawback of CPVC pipes is that they will become brittle and begin to lose their quality when exposed to prolonged periods of sunlight. They also have a higher chance of cracking or splitting if water freezes inside them.
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) are two common types of pipes used for residential systems. PVC is typically used for water drainage purposes, while ABS is commonly used in plumbing systems that deliver running water.
- Cross-linked Polyethylene, also known as PEX pipes, are flexible tubes with many positive features. They can be used in both commercial & residential properties, and they are quick to install anywhere. PEX is an optimal choice for any plumbing installation, as it's corrosion-resistant, doesn't rust, and comes in different diameters. In addition, they are designed with flexibility in mind, so they can quickly expand and contract to accommodate any changes in climate. This means that PEX Pipes don't crack or become prone to leaks or corrosion like other pipes. Regrettably, PEX also has the disadvantage of degrading when exposed to the sun.
Do You Need Help From Trusted Local Atlanta, GA Area Plumbers?
Choosing pipe materials can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. The professionals at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Atlanta are highly skilled in selecting and installing all types of pipes. Our technicians can help you with your plumbing needs, such as broken pipe repair and replacement. We also offer sewer video inspection to determine any possible damage. If you need to hire a licensed plumber to fix or replace your pipes, give us a call to schedule an appointment.