When it comes to your home’s plumbing, you may not think much about your water pipes, but the type of pipe you choose can significantly impact the longevity, cost, and safety of your home’s water system. Each type of pipe comes with its own strengths and drawbacks, making it important to choose wisely based on your needs and budget. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of water pipes used in homes. 

Copper Pipes

Pros: 

Copper water pipes are durable and can last for over 50 years. They won’t rust or degrade easily, so they work well in areas with hard water. They can also tolerate and retain heat when properly insulated, making them the ideal choice for hot water lines. Though not considered a green product, you can recycle old copper pipes. 

In addition, bacteria cannot thrive in copper, and these pipes can’t pollute water, so they can safely transport drinking water. 

Cons: 

These cost more than other types of pipes and require more fittings for turns and angles. They aren’t ideal for small, confined spaces. In highly acidic water, they can start to corrode. 

PEX (Cross-linked Polyethylene) Pipes

Pros:

These water pipes are flexible and easily snake through walls without needing joints. This mobility allows them to expand slightly under freezing conditions, reducing the risk of pipes bursting. They are also resistant to scale, chlorine, and degradation, and can last for a long time. They can be used indoors for hot and cold water applications. 

PEX pipes cost less than copper pipes and are much easier to install. 

Cons: 

These water pipes aren’t ideal for outside applications because they are sensitive to and start to degrade when exposed to UV rays. People have also noted an initial plastic taste in the water, raising concerns about chemicals leaching from the pipe material. These pipes are also less environmentally friendly than copper pipes. 

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Pipes

Pros:

These water pipes cost less than most pipes and are easy to handle and install. They also won’t rust or degrade and can handle high pressure, making them a great choice for your main water line. They are also suitable for cold water distributions, underground, and places where the cost is the primary concern. 

Cons: 

You shouldn’t use these pipes for hot water because they are not heat-resistant and can warp. Many regions even restrict their use in hot water lines. In color climates, they may become brittle and break.

CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride) Pipes

Pros:

Unlike PVC pipes, CPVC pipes can tolerate high pressure and hot water up to 200°F. These pipes are still cheaper than copper, durable, resistant to corrosion, and good for long-term use. They are also lightweight and somewhat flexible, making them easy to move and work with

Cons:

These water pipes are more brittle and prone to cracking than PEX pipes. They can also degrade when exposed to certain chemicals. They require solvent cement to install and need to be handled carefully. These pipes should only be used inside because they can break down when exposed to sunlight for extended periods.  

Galvanized Steel Pipes (mostly found in older homes)

Pros:

These pipes were once popular because of their toughness and ability to handle high water pressure. They can last up to 70 years and provide good rust protection because of the zinc coating. 

Cons: 

These pipes are heavy, hard to work with, and difficult to cut and fit. They are prone to corrosion over time and are often replaced during modern renovations. These pipes are also more prone to mineral buildup, which in turn makes them vulnerable to low water pressure. 

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Pipes

Pros: 

These plastic pipes are durable, budget-friendly, and water- and corrosion-resistant. They are also easy to install. They can withstand extremely cold temperatures without becoming brittle. They are mostly used in sewer systems, drains, and electrical insulation. 

Cons:

These pipes contain BPA, so they are not suitable for drinking water. They are also sensitive to UV rays and can degrade from exposure. These pipes can also be louder than other pipes, and may be restricted or prohibited by local building codes. 

Which Pipes are Right for Your Home?

When choosing water pipes, consider your location, water quality, installation type, and budget. For new installations, people often choose PEX and copper, while older homes may need replacements for galvanized steel or PVC systems. Always consult with a licensed plumber to ensure compliance with local codes and optimal performance.