What Metal is Used For Pipes in Houses?

Before the 1960s, most houses had cast iron drain and vent stacks. These pipes rusted over time and required professional plumbers to replace them. Today, most houses use plastic piping, which comes in two main types: ABS and PVC. Since the mid-1970s, most homes use plastic piping for the majority of their plumbing needs. ABS and PVC pipes are relatively inexpensive and easy to work with. These pipes are also known for their ease of installation and use. Plastic pipe joints can easily be glued using liquid cement. Steel is another common choice for pipes in houses. Steel pipes have a zinc coating that prevents them from rusting. Many homes built before the 1960s had galvanized pipes in their plumbing systems. Galvanized pipes were a good alternative to lead pipe. Steel is one of the most durable materials, but it is also the most expensive to install. This type of metal pipe is used in older houses, so new construction might not have steel pipes. Polybutylene was a common choice for pipes from the late 1970s to the mid-1990s. In fact, it was so popular that ten million American homes had polybutylene pipes. Polybutylene was seen as a futuristic material because it was cheap and easy to work with. Fortunately, it is now banned from use in residential plumbing. Despite the fact that polybutylene is safe for human consumption, it is difficult to install, and is susceptible to bursting and leakage. Plastic is another material popular for piping in houses. PEX pipes have the advantage of being flexible and easily installed. They are usually color coded, and will not rust or corrode. Plastic pipes will last for 50 years or more and are much cheaper than metal ones. In addition, PEX pipes can be used in long continuous runs. For the purpose of installing plumbing, PEX pipe has become the most popular choice in new homes. While cast iron and galvanized steel are durable, they have a limited lifespan. These pipes can rust and lead to clogs, so most plumbers choose a different material for repairs. Copper, PEX, and PVC are the most popular types of plumbing pipe used in houses. They all have different benefits and drawbacks, but there is no harm in exploring the different options. They are all worth considering. If you have a leaking pipe, it is imperative to call a plumber to check it out as soon as possible. If you want your pipes to last for many years, you should learn about the different materials used for pipes. Understanding what metals are used in pipes will help you maintain them properly. Maintaining them properly will prevent them from leaking and clogging. So, before calling a plumber, know what metal is used for pipes in plumbing in houses. Copper is the oldest metal used for pipes in plumbing in houses. It is corrosion-resistant, heat-resistant, and durable. But if you live in coastal areas, stainless steel is the better choice. Besides, copper is also recyclable. If you choose to use copper, you should also consider PVC piping if you live in an area where freezing is a problem. If you want to go with stainless steel, you should make sure that your pipes are insulated. Click here to learn more about plumber derby.