Copper Pipes: Traditional, non-permeable, resistant to bacteria, and recyclable. Known for reliability and durability. | Hot and cold water lines, HVAC systems for refrigerant lines | Durable, bacteria and corrosion-resistant, handles high temperatures, recyclable | More expensive than plastic pipes, can corrode in acidic environments, requires skilled labor for installation |
PEX Pipes (Cross-linked Polyethylene): Flexible, durable plastic pipe that reduces the need for fittings. | Indoor water lines, radiant floor heating, hot and cold plumbing systems | Flexible, resistant to scale and chlorine, less prone to burst from freezing | UV sensitive, concerns about chemical leaching, not suitable for outdoor use |
PVC Pipes (Polyvinyl Chloride): Lightweight, chemical-resistant plastic pipe, easy to work with. | Drinking water, sewage, main water supply lines | Lightweight, inexpensive, corrosion-resistant, widely available | Not suitable for hot water applications, can degrade under UV exposure, may release harmful chemicals if burned |
CPVC Pipes (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride): A variant of PVC, enhanced to withstand higher temperatures. | Hot and cold water pipes for residential and commercial use | Can withstand higher temperatures than PVC, chemical damage and corrosion-resistant, suitable for potable water | More expensive than PVC, can become brittle over time, may be damaged by certain organic solvents |
Braided Pipes: Consist of an inner rubber hose encased in a braided metal sheath, providing flexibility and strength. | Connections for water heaters, sinks, and toilets | High resistance to pressure and bursting, provides flexibility for tight spaces, durable construction | Limited to specific applications, more expensive than solid pipes, requires professional installation |
ABS Pipes (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): Strong, impact-resistant thermoplastic pipe, similar to PVC but more durable. | Drain, waste, and vent systems, sewer lines | Strong and impact-resistant, performs well in low temperatures, easy to install with solvent welding | Not suitable for outdoor use due to UV sensitivity, cannot be used for potable water, less flexible than PEX and PVC |
Cast Iron Pipes: Heavy, durable pipes made by pouring molten iron into molds. Known for their sound-dampening qualities. | Underground water systems, main sewage lines, storm drainage systems | Extremely durable and long-lasting, excellent at dampening noise from water flow, resistant to abrasion and heavy loads | Very heavy and difficult to install, prone to rust and corrosion over time, expensive to repair or replace |
HDPE Pipes (High-Density Polyethylene): Flexible, corrosion-resistant pipes made from a robust plastic that withstands various environmental conditions. | Potable water supply, wastewater systems, gas distribution | Highly durable, corrosion-resistant, flexible, eco-friendly, cost-effective over the long term | Sensitive to UV, can deform under high temperatures |