When you’re installing a new water or sewer connection to your house, you might be wondering what type of pipe you should use. PVC plastic pipe is the most popular pipe for indoor plumbing because it is easy to install, durable and affordable. However, each type of plastic pipe has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Keep reading to learn more about the different types of plastic pipe and which one is right for your home.
PVC Pipe Basics
PVC plastic pipe is made from an organic compound called PVC. PVC is a type of plastic that is flexible, durable and weather-resistant. PVC pipe is used for indoor and outdoor plumbing in residential and commercial buildings. To install PVC pipe, you need two basic tools: a PVC cutter and PVC glue. PVC glue is used to join PVC pipe sections together to create longer runs of PVC pipe. PVC pipe comes in eight different sizes based on how much water or other fluid it can carry. PVC pipe is usually black, but it can also be white, blue or any other color.
PEX Pipe
PEX pipe is a type of plastic pipe used for indoor and outdoor plumbing. Unlike PVC plastic pipe, PEX plastic pipe is made from a different type of plastic called cross-linked polyethylene. PEX plastic pipe is flexible and can be placed in locations that are hard to access with PVC plastic pipe. PEX plastic pipe is a good choice for installing new plumbing to an outdoor shower, waterfall or large garden, as it can be installed in a way that is not possible with PVC plastic pipe. PEX plastic pipe may be black or white, and it comes in several different sizes.
Ceramic Pipe
Ceramic pipe is another type of plastic pipe used for indoor and outdoor plumbing. Unlike PVC and PEX plastic pipe, ceramic pipe is not flexible and cannot be installed in locations that are hard to access. Ceramic pipe is made from a material called ceramic, which is a type of rock. Ceramic pipe is used in high-pressure plumbing, such as in a water tower, or in locations where the pipe needs to be very durable. Ceramic pipe is usually blue or dark green. It comes in several different sizes, including the same sizes as PVC and PEX plastic pipe.
Conclusion
Ceramic, PVC and PEX plastic pipe are all good choices for installing pipes in your home. PVC is the most common type of plastic used for indoor plumbing due to its easy installation, durability and low cost. Ceramic pipe can be used in high-pressure situations, such as in a water tower, while PEX pipe is best used when you need a pipe that can be installed in hard-to-reach areas. Remember that the type of pipe you use depends on the location of your new plumbing and how much water your home will be using.