Home Safety And Your Plumbing

It’s natural to think of your home’s safety as the security alarm you arm before bed, your dog that barks at any would-be intruders, or even a water filter. However, your home can face a number of safety issues and the one that everyone forgets about is plumbing.

Your home’s plumbing and pipes are responsible for carrying water to you and your family with no extra contaminants. In addition, they are designed to carry away the waste that your family naturally creates.

Because of this, the pipes in your home should be seen as important as your security system. Keep reading to find out about several types of pipes that are available to you for your next remodel or repiping service!

PEX: Cross-Linked Polyethylene

PEX can be considered a newer type of piping in comparison to numerous others that are on the market. However, it is hardly ‘new,’ as it has been used in homes for numerous years. PEX is generally cheaper than copper piping and easier to install. It also does not require certain types of glue that require ventilation. It is highly unlikely to burst due to freezing temperatures and is not affected by the acidity in water.

Stainless Steel Pipes: An Older But Viable Option

Stainless steel pipes are known for their ability to resist rust and corrosion. In addition to this, they can handle high and freezing temperatures making it a great choice for outdoor areas. Generally speaking, stainless steel pipes are easy to fabricate and change, and can be made thinner than most other types of pipes.

This allows for you to use less support as there is less weight from the pipes. Also, because there are numerous finishes available, stainless steel pipes are an aesthetically attractive option if they are left exposed in the home for a modern look.

Brass Pipes: Not Just For Band Instruments

Brass is another option that has been used for decades in residential and commercial plumbing jobs. This is because it is extremely durable--they do not crack, corrode, or disintegrate.

Brass piping is resistant to hot water, which makes it ideal to use with a hot water tank and they are actually fire-resistant! The biggest benefits of brass pipes and fittings are the fact that they are versatile and malleable.

You can find brass pipes and fittings in an array of shapes, sizes, and lengths and if you there is a need, you can easily shape or mold them.

CPVC: Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride

You might be wondering if CPVC and PVC pipes are the same. They’re not quite the same, but can be considered family. In fact, CPVC may be looked at as PVC’s older, tougher brother. CPVC has been chemically altered to allow for greater resistance to temperatures up to 200 degrees. It is possible for this type of material to corrode, however, it takes far longer than many other types of pipe.

Cast Iron: Not Just For Cooking

Cast iron pipes may get a bad reputation for being cumbersome and heavy. However, those two factors are also what causes it to be long-lasting and durable. Also, because these pipes are so dense, they are always quiet--you’ll never hear running water or wake the baby by taking a shower. These pipes are ideal for handling large amounts of water at high pressures.

Which One Should You Choose?

Deciding on a type of pipe to use in your home is definitely not a choice to make lightly. It can affect your home and family’s health and will determine the ease in which remodels take place or how often you may need to replace your pipes. This is why it is important to make a call to Apple Valley Plumbing when you are considering new pipes for your home!

Call us today for an assessment and consultation of your current situation! Take a minute to share this article if you’ve learned a thing or two about piping materials!