Are you building a house or working on a building, gotten to the plumbing part, and are unsure which plumbing pipes are the best for your home or commercial property? There are many types of plumbing pipes for your buildings, and if you do not have previous plumbing experience making decisions can be overwhelming.
In this post Lutz Plumbing will walk you through some of the variables to consider.

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Plumbing Pipe

There are a few factors to consider before buying a plumbing pipe. These factors will help you make an educated decision. They include:

Water Type

Before choosing a plumbing pipe, have a professional conduct a water test for you. If your water is corrosive, avoid copper and metal pipes. When copper and metal react with corrosive water, they release copper and lead into the water, which is very dangerous for human and animal health.

Plumbing Use

If you are installing plumbing for your commercial property, you need a pipe that can withstand high water pressure. The pipe must be wide and durable to withstand the pressure. Plastic pipes are highly recommended as they can handle a lot of pressure and are durable.

Exposure to Sunlight

Ultraviolet rays can damage the surface of the pipes over time, making them susceptible to wear and tear quickly. To prevent UV rays from damaging your pipes, you should insulate them. This is especially the case with PVC pipes since they not typically recommended to carry hot water and can't withstand heat as much as other piping solutions.

Soil Characteristics

Before you dig under your backyard to install plumbing pipes, have a professional check the PH and the minerals in the soil. The soil can react with certain pipe materials if it is acidic or has excess minerals.

Cost and Quality

People often rush to buy cheap plumbing materials without checking their quality. After a few days, the pipes burst or wear out due to pressure. Cheap is expensive. If you are doing plumbing that will last you for years, choose plumbing pipes which are up to standard and mandated by Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) .

Know the Type of Plumbing Pipe You Need

Plumbing pipes can be grouped as water, drain, or power supply.

Water Plumbing Pipes

Polypropylene (PPR)

Polypropylene is a common plastic pipe used for both hot and cold water. The material is corrosion resistant, and you can use the PPR for any water type. The material can bend and curve easily and is highly preferred for commercial buildings. The pipes are less expensive compared to other plumbing pipes. 

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)

If you are building a residential property with less sunlight exposure, then ABS pipes are the best. They can hold for longer periods if not exposed to sunlight. ABS pipes can be used as water supply pipes or drain pipes.

Copper

Copper pipes are more expensive when compared to other plumbing pipes. However, they have extended durability as they are heat, rust and corrosion resistant. Choose a copper pipe if you are building a residential property or a home where you will use hot heaters often.

Galvanized Steel Pipes

People have used galvanized steel pipes for decades for drainage and water supply. They are expensive to install but are very durable. The pipes are corrosion and fluids resistance. 

Power Supply Pipes

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

PVC pipes are commonly used due to their extreme strength; hence very durable. They have in-built insulation properties which allow efficient transportation of power energy. The pipes are inexpensive, light and easier to work with than other pipes.

Cross-Link Polyethylene (PEX)

PEX pipes are highly flexible, and you can install them in stairways, ceilings or high rise buildings. The PEX pipes are cheaper compared to other power supply pipes.

T here are other different types of plumbing pipes. When choosing a tube, check the material and its resistance to corrosion, heat and other materials. 

What Follows After Choosing the Right Plumbing Pipes

After identifying suitable plumbing pipes, you should look for a professional plumber. The plumber will help you do the correct measurements, the total number of pipes you need, and the installation process for you. Do not rush when choosing a plumber, as one wrong move can mess up your whole building.

Ensure you also buy plumbing pipes from credible stores. There are a few things you should consider when choosing a plumbing supplier to ensure you get legit and durable materials.

Lutz Plumbing Will Help You Select The Right Plumbing Pipes

Do not go to buy plumbing pipes blindly. Check the factors mentioned above to determine what plumbing type you need, and choose a pipe depending on the quality and material. Sometimes you will have to go deeper into your pocket, but it will save you a lot.

Schedule an appointment online today with a Lutz Plumbing professional and we will guide you through your plumbing process.