Most homeowners don’t give their plumbing much thought until something leaks, clogs, or needs to be replaced. But the type of pipe running through your home affects everything from water pressure to repair costs.
Copper Pipes and Why People Still Like Them
If you walk into a home built decades ago, there’s a good chance copper is running through the walls. These pipes are made of metal, and they’re known for lasting a long time. They are rigid, which helps keep them from moving around or rattling when water flows through. You might not notice that detail every day, but it does help with the noise and stops sudden pressure changes from shaking the pipes.
Another thing people like about copper is how clean the water tastes. Some other materials can leave behind a plastic smell or strange flavor, but copper usually doesn’t. If you drink tap water from the sink, you might notice the difference. Additionally, copper holds up well in areas that receive a lot of sunlight. If a pipe runs through a bright laundry room or a sunny garage, it won’t break down or weaken the way plastic pipes sometimes do.
Copper’s a bit pricier than other pipe options, and it takes more effort to put in. You need the right tools and someone who knows what they’re doing to get it sealed up right. But if you’re planning to stay in your home for a while, the durability might make it worth the extra cost.
PEX Pipes and Why They’re Popular in Newer Homes
PEX pipes look and feel different from copper. They’re made of flexible plastic and can curve around corners without needing a lot of joints or connectors. If your plumbing has to squeeze through tight spaces or bend behind walls, that flexibility comes in handy. PEX also installs faster because the fittings don’t need soldering. Plumbers use crimp rings, cinch clamps, or push-to-connect fittings to join PEX tubing, which makes the process easier.
You’ll commonly see PEX used in newer homes or in places where a remodel is happening. It costs less than copper and doesn’t transfer heat as quickly, which means your hot water might stay hot a little longer as it moves through the pipes. In colder climates, PEX has another advantage: it can expand slightly when it freezes. That stretch can sometimes prevent the pipe from bursting though it still requires protection from extreme cold.
PEX tubing comes in various colors, typically red for hot water and blue for cold water, which doesn’t affect performance but makes it easier for plumbers to identify supply lines during installation or future repairs. One limitation to keep in mind is that PEX isn’t UV-resistant. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the material to weaken over time, making it brittle. Fortunately, because PEX is usually run behind walls or in concealed spaces, this isn’t a concern in most residential installations.
PVC Pipes and Where They Work Best
PVC is another plastic option, but it’s harder and more rigid than PEX. You’ll often see it used for drain lines or vents rather than the water you drink or shower with. That’s because it holds up well to waste and water pressure, but not as well to heat. If you try to send hot water through a PVC pipe, it can soften and lose its shape.
One of the best things about PVC is how cheap and easy it is to work with. You don’t need fancy tools to cut it, and the pieces fit together with glue. That makes it a common pick for quick repairs, outdoor drains, or new home construction. It also doesn’t rust or corrode, which means it holds up well for the price.
The downside is that PVC is not always effective in colder climates. If it freezes, it can crack, and fixing that isn’t always simple. Still, for certain uses, especially ones that don’t involve high heat, PVC can be a smart, budget-friendly choice.
Contact Your Local Plumbers
At Drain Doctor Plumbing & Rooter, we have been serving the residents of Covina, CA since 1996. You can count on us for piping repairs and upgrades. We also offer a full range of other plumbing services, including drain cleaning, sewer system repair, and water heater maintenance. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced plumbers.
