Over the past two decades, the use of plastic pipes for plumbing has gained substantial popularity. Nowadays, plastic pipes account for over half of the plumbing pipes bought by consumers each year. Whether they are used for drainage or water supply, plastic pipes such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) have several advantages over traditional metal piping.
The following are the five benefits of using plastic pipes:
- Cost-effective. PVC and CPVC pipes are manufactured at a fraction of the cost of copper or galvanized steel pipes, making them less expensive to purchase. In addition, plastic pipes are much lighter compared to metal pipes, meaning that they can be transported and sold in greater volumes at a lower cost.
- Long lifespan. Over time, metal pipes can corrode, causing leaks and costly maintenance. On the other hand, plastic pipes do not corrode, rust, nor develop sediment buildup which restricts water flow.
- Easy to install and repair. Plastic pipes can be installed with fewer tools compared to copper and galvanized steel piping. By using gel-like plumbing cement and C/PVC primer, joints and couplers can be slid onto each other and fused into place with ease. Furthermore, homeowners do not need soldering experience to repair broken plastic pipes.
- Energy efficient. Because plastic pipes are much thicker than copper pipes, they do not conduct heat as easily as metal, providing better insulation against heat loss and reducing the amount of energy necessary for hot water to reach the faucet. In addition, they are less vulnerable to condensation, making them resistant to the negative impact of cold or freezing weather.
- Environmentally friendly. Plastic pipes can be recyclable, while copper and iron pipes are comprised of nonrenewable earth metals.
If you are interested in plumbing repairs in your San Fernando Valley home, contact Duran & Sons Universal Plumbing & Rooter today.