If you’re living in an apartment, choosing the right type of pipe is important when doing any plumbing work. Pipes that are too small can lead to clogs and leaks, while pipes that are too large can be difficult and expensive to install.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide on choosing the right pipes for your needs. We’ll walk you through the different types of pipes available and help you decide which one is best for your situation.
Read our guide on choosing suitable pipes for apartment plumbing now!
Types of Plumbing Pipes
When choosing pipes for your apartment plumbing system, it is important to be aware of the types of pipes available. Metal or plastic pipes can carry water and waste from your apartment to the main sewer line or septic tank. Depending on the location of your apartment, you may need to use a different type of pipe.
PVC Pipe
PVC pipe is a type of plastic pipe made up of polyvinyl chloride, a type of plastic resin.
PVC pipes are used for toilets, bathtubs, and sink drain lines. Other applications of PVC include Roof Gutter lines, underground and indoor plumbing, vent stacks, main water supply lines, etc.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to install, its endings can be glued together with specific solvents.
- Resistant to rust and corrosion
- Low cost and available in different sizes and colors
- Non-conductive in nature
Cons
- PVC pipes are not used for hot water because heat can deform them.
- Sunlight especially UV rays can degrade it so it cannot be exposed to sunlight.
Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride Pipe (CPVC)
CPVC pipes are made of polyvinyl chloride resin that has been treated with chlorine to make it more resistant to heat and chemical damage. CPVC pipes are typically less expensive than CopperCopper and can be used in hot and cold water systems.
However, CPVC pipes are not as flexible as PEX pipes and may require specialized fittings to connect them to other types of piping.
Pros
- Strong and durable
- Can withstand high temperatures
- Resistant to corrosion and Safe for drinking water
- Easy to install
- Inexpensive as compared to CopperCopper and other metallic piping
- More flexibility than PVC
Cons
- On freezing of water can split
- May leach chemicals into the water
- Not recyclable
- The manufacturing process is highly polluting
Cross-Linked Polyethylene Pipe (PEX)
PEX pipes are made of polyethylene resin cross-linked with a chemical catalyst. This process creates a material that is stronger and more resistant to heat and corrosion than traditional polyethylene pipes.
PEX pipes are flexible and can be bent around corners, which makes them easy to install, so PEX pipes are typically used in areas where joining pipes with glue can be dangerous.
PEX can be used for both cold and hot water lines. PEX pipes are available in a variety of diameters and lengths and can be connected to other types of piping using special fittings.
Red PEX: Contain hot water
Blue PEX: Contain cold water
White PEX: Can have both cold or hot water
Pros
- Heat and Freeze resistant because it can expand and contract
- Flexible and easy to install
- It can be used for both hot and cold water lines
- Available in a variety of diameters and lengths
- It can be connected to other types of piping using special fittings
Cons
- More expensive than PVC and CPVC pipes
- Fitting requires special instruments
- It cannot be connected directly to the heater
- PEX pipes are not currently recyclable
Polypropylene-Random Copolymer (PPR) Pipe
PPR pipe is a plastic pipe made from polypropylene resin that has been randomly copolymerized with ethylene. PPR pipes are solid and durable but can be challenging to install. PPR pipes are typically used for hot and cold water lines and drain, waste, and vent lines.
Pros
- Strong and durable
- Resistant to corrosion
- It can be used for both hot and cold water lines
- Non-toxic
- Does not pollute the water
- Recyclable
Cons
- More expensive than other types of pipes
- Can develop leaks over time
Galvanized Steel Pipe and Cast Iron Pipe
Galvanized steel pipes are made from steel coated with a layer of zinc to protect them from corrosion. Galvanized pipes are typically used for cold water lines, as hot water can cause the zinc to corrode.
Cast iron pipes are made from pig iron that has been cast into a shape. Cast iron pipes are often used for drain, waste, and vent lines.
These metallic pipes have less usage due to rusting and corrosion over time.
Pros
- Strong and durable
- Resistant to corrosion
- It can be used for both hot and cold water lines
- Non-toxic
- Does not pollute the water
- Recyclable
Cons
- More expensive than other types of pipes
- Can rust and corrode over time
Copper Pipe
Copper has been a traditional plumbing material since the 1950s. Other types came after that, but CopperCopper is still one of the best options because it is solid, durable, and resistant to corrosion. However, it is much more expensive than other types of piping.
Copper piping is used in hot and cold water supplies and AC and refrigerant lines.
Pros
- Strong, durable, and long-lasting
- Resistant to corrosion
- It can be used for both hot and cold water lines
- Non-toxic
- Does not pollute the water
- Recyclable
Cons
- More expensive than other types of pipes
- Can develop leaks over time
ABS Pipe
ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is a type of plastic pipe made of a thermoplastic resin and looks like a PVC pipe. Mostly, these pipes come in black color and are used for drain, waste, and vent lines.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to install
- Resistant to corrosion
- Non-toxic
- Available in a variety of diameters and lengths
- It can be connected to other types of piping using special fittings
Cons
- ABS pipes are not as strong as PVC or CPVC pipes and can break more easily.
- May leach chemicals into the water
- ABS pipes are not currently recyclable.
Flexi Pipe
A flexible pipe is made up of either plastic or iron, and it’s especially useful for connections in tiny, confined places. Flexi pipes have special shapes and structures, so they can be bent around obstacles.
Polybutylene Pipe (PB)
Polybutylene (PB) is plastic piping commonly used in home plumbing systems from 1978 to 1995. However, PB pipes are no longer used in new construction because they are prone to leaks and breakage.
If you have an older home with PB pipes, you may need to replace them if they start to leak.
High-Density Polyethylene Piping (HDPE)
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe is a flexible plastic pipe commonly used to replace deteriorated concrete or steel mains pipelines. Its high level of impermeability and strong chemical bond makes it well suited for high-pressure pipelines, including municipal, industrial, energy, geothermal, landfill, etc.
Suitable Pipes for Your Apartment Plumbing
As you can see, there are various types of pipes that can be used for apartment plumbing. Each type of pipe has pros and cons that should be considered before deciding.
When choosing suitable pipes for apartment plumbing, you will need to consider the pipe’s material, size, and type. You will also need to decide whether you want to install plumbing pipes for the toilet, sink, Gutter Drainage, or water supply.
PEX pipes are the best option for apartment plumbing because they are easy to install, flexible, and durable.
However, CPVC pipes are a close second and maybe a better choice for areas where freezing is a concern. Whichever type of pipe you choose, make sure to consult with a licensed plumber to ensure that it is the best option for your needs.
If you want to do plumbing work in your apartment, contact Valet Works. We are a licensed plumbing company that can help you with all of your plumbing needs. We offer a variety of services, including drain cleaning, water line repair, and more.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and to schedule a consultation.