What Are the Different Types of Plumbing Pipes and Their Uses?

Here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we are an experienced plumbing service with decades of industry experience. We are familiar with the different types of plumbing pipes and their pros and cons. In this article, we will outline 5 different types of plumbing pipes, their uses, and their pros and cons.

PVC Pipes

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes are one of the most common piping materials used in residential, commercial, and industrial establishments. These pipes are known for their versatility, long life expectancy, and lightweight nature. They are commonly used for waste lines, though they are sometimes used for water supply.

Pros of PVC pipes

• Less expensive than metal pipes
• Smooth interior surface
• Lightweight and durable
• The pipes can be used indoors, outdoors, and underground

However, PVC pipes can only handle fluids up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride) Pipes

CPVC pipes are similar to PVC pipes but are specifically designed to handle higher temperatures. They are often used for hot water supply lines and are more heat-resistant than PVC pipes. In fact, CPVC piping can tolerate up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pros of CPVC Pipes

• Strong and durable
• Highly resistant to corrosion
• Easy to install
• Possess noise-dampening properties
• Can handle hot fluids up to 200 °F

CPVC pipes are pricier than PVC pipes and can degrade quickly when exposed to too much sunlight.

PEX Pipes

Also known as cross-linked polyethylene pipes, PEX pipes are a popular choice for indoor hot and cold water supply lines thanks to their durability and flexibility.

Pros of PEX Pipes

• Unlike metal pipes, they do not rust or deteriorate over time
• Cheaper than copper pipes
• Color-coded for hot and cold water—this makes it easy for plumbers during installation

The only downside of PEX pipes is that they cannot be used outdoors.

ABS Pipes

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) piping is a type of plastic piping mainly used for drain, waste, and vent piping. They are lightweight, easy to install, and resistant to chemicals.

Pros of ABS Pipes

• Fairly durable
• Resistant to cold temperatures
• Inexpensive

While ABS pipes boast a long life expectancy, they tend to be noisier than PVC pipes. Moreover, they can warp and degrade when exposed to UV rays.

Copper Pipes

Copper pipes remain the standard for most plumbing needs because they are durable, corrosion-resistant, and versatile. These pipes are commonly used for both hot and cold water supply lines, as well as gas lines.

Pros of Copper Pipes

• Durable with a long lifespan (50+ years)
• Lightweight
• Environmentally friendly
• Suitable for both hot and cold water lines

However, copper piping is more expensive than some of its more popular alternatives, like PVC or PEX.

Need Professional Pipe Replacement Services? Mr. Rooter Plumbing Is Here To Help

If you’re looking for a reputable plumbing service to help you with pipe replacement, reach out to Mr. Rooter Plumbing. Whether you're dealing with old, corroded pipes or require an upgrade to accommodate changing needs, our experts are equipped with the knowledge and experience to provide top-notch pipe replacement services.