Pros & Cons of Different Types of Pipes

Pros&cons of cast iron pipe

Although cast iron pipe will deteriorate over time, the reality is that most older homes have at least some cast iron pipes that are still intact. In some cases, cast iron pipes can actually last over 10,000 years! It all depends on the location of the house and the pipes. While houses with cast iron pipes laid in clay soil are more susceptible to corrosion, pipes in houses built in sandy soil usually last longer. Cast iron is strong and durable. Many municipal pipelines and commercial buildings across the United States still function well with cast iron piping. Another great benefit is that they're quiet!

Disadvantages of cast iron pipes

• Corrosion: This is almost always the first problem that occurs, usually from inside the pipe where you can't see it.

• Cast iron is heavy: This causes sinking into the ground and leads to cracking. It's also much harder to repair.

• Clogged and slow drains

• Sewer backups into your home: This can lead to

• Water damage

• Unsanitary conditions

• Pest infestation

• Can allow mold and mildew to grow

• Expensive and messy repairs: You may even need to remove the flat in some places for replacement. This is expensive and messy. In some cases, you may even have to leave your home temporarily.

• Insurance may not cover repairs: Be sure to check your homeowner's policy for specific exclusions. In some cases, they may need to fix the problem, but not always. Litigation on this issue appears to be ongoing.

Pros&cons of Copper pipe

Copper pipes have stood the test of time because they offer a number of important advantages, including

• Longevity: Copper has proven to be a reliable material that will last for at least 50 years.

• Durability: Copper is a strong material that is less likely to leak or corrode.

• Safety: Bacteria cannot multiply in copper pipes and copaper does not contaminate water sources in any way, so it is safe to transport drinking water.

• Recyclability: When copper tubing eventually needs to be replaced, the material can be recycled.

• Temperature Tolerance: Copper can withstand extreme temperature changes, including hot and cold water.

With so many advantages, you may be wondering why copper is not used for plumbing in all cases. Copper is not always chosen because it does have some disadvantages compared to other materials. Disadvantages of copper piping include

• Financial cost: The main factor that prevents the use of copper is cost. The value of copper as a global commodity has increased in recent years.

• Environmental costs: Environmentally conscious homeowners may be concerned about the environmental damage caused by the mining and manufacturing of copper. So, while copper pipe is long-lasting and recyclable, it is not considered a "green" product. 

Pros&cons of galvanized steel pipe

While galvanized steel is cheaper, stronger and more prone to rusting over time than copper, these advantages are not enough to compensate for the disadvantages, which include

• Short life span: Galvanized steel pipe can last about 20 to 50 years before it starts to break down. This may not seem too short, but it is dwarfed by the lifespan of many other piping materials.

• Corrosion: Smaller diameter pipes, in particular, can develop rust inside over time. In some cases, the rust can come off the inside of the pipe and mix with the water as it flows through. This can lead to discoloration of the water.

• Lead contamination: If a pipe is corroded, lead can leach into the water inside, making it unsafe to drink.

• Clogging: Over time, mineral buildup inside galvanized pipes can begin to form clogs, which can impede the flow of water.

• Weight: These pipes are very strong and their downside is that they are also very heavy. This makes them difficult to handle.

• Vulnerability to damage: When a galvanized pipe is damaged, the galvanized coating on its exterior is compromised, which makes the pipe susceptible to corrosion in a short period of time.

Pros&cons of PVC Pipe

PVC pipe is popular for some of the important advantages it offers, including

• Longevity: PVC will not rust or corrode, so unless it encounters some sort of accidental damage, it will last indefinitely. Even the most durable metals used in piping cannot match the impressive life span of PVC.

• Ability to withstand pressure: PVC is often used in the main water supply line into your home because of its ability to withstand high water pressure.

• Ease of use: Compared to metal pipe, PVC is very light, making it easy to transport and use. It is also easy to use because there is no welding required to connect the pipes. Instead, the pipes are essentially glued together.

• Low cost: The cost of PVC is also low. Especially when compared to copper, PVC is a very inexpensive piping option.

While PVC has some obvious advantages, it also has some disadvantages. These include.

• Prone to warping: PVC does not have the ability to carry hot water. This is because, as with most plastics, heat causes the material to warp and melt.

• Size: Sizing options for PVC pipe are limited, which can sometimes be a problem. Even if your PVC pipe is the right size, the fittings used to connect the PVC pipe are often bulky, which can be problematic in tight spaces.