which plumbing pipes are the best for your home

If you are considering replacing the plumbing pipes in your home, it’s important to know which type of pipes you are going to replace them with. The right plumbing pipes can make a great difference in your water quality and water bill! If you don’t know where to start your research, don’t worry—the pros at Leak Finders are here to help you out! Here is a quick guide on which plumbing pipes are the best for your home.

When You Should Replace Your Pipes

Replacing your pipes is no easy feat – so be sure you need new ones before you decide to replace them. Here is a list of signs that it might be time to replace your plumbing pipes:

  1. Pipe Material

If your home is older, you might have lead pipes, which can be highly dangerous and toxic. Consuming it in small quantities can be dangerous and lead to an unexpected hospital visit. If you have lead pipes, contact your plumber and see what you can do.

  1. Continuous Low Water Pressure

If you have low water pressure, it’s a little difficult to detect the exact problem. However, if you notice that you have been dealing with water pressure problems for a long time, you might have an issue with your pipes. Your plumbing might have leaks, which might lead to mold growth and other major problems.

  1. Remodeling

The best time to replace your pipes, should you decide to do so, is when you’re renovating and remodeling your home. Inspecting your pipes will be more convenient and with a plumber on-site you might have less added cost.

Best Plumbing Pipes

  • Copper

Copper pipes resist corrosion and heat and have a lifespan of roughly 50 years. If you want metal plumbing, copper pipes might be the best and most durable, though slightly more expensive, option. Copper is best used in water supply lines.

  • Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

These pipes are a popular plastic piping option but can only be used for cold water pipes and should generally not be exposed to heat. However, they do not corrode and are much cheaper than metal options. PVC is best for vent and drainpipes.

  • Polyethylene Cross-linked Pipe (PEX)

This type of pipe is also an affordable plastic pipe and is a very flexible option. It also doesn’t rust or corrode and can be found as a hot water and cold water option. This type of pipe is best for water supply lines.

  • Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)

This pipe is like PVC but a little more durable. However, it can’t be exposed to direct sunlight making it a less viable option for many homeowners. ABS pipes are best used for drain, vent and waste pipes.

 

Have any more questions about which plumbing pipes are the best for your home? Get in touch with the pros at Leak Finders! Call us today at 804-767-3580 or schedule a service with us on our website!