What Types of Pipes Are in Your Building?

Plumbing Pipes 101: The supply pipes

Supply pipes are responsible for delivering clean water from the main supply to various fixtures and appliances throughout the building. These pipes need to be durable, corrosion-resistant, and capable of handling high pressure.

Common materials used for the water line include copper, which are highly durable and resistant to corrosion and high temperatures, and PEX (cross-linked polyethylene), known for its flexible and ease of installation. CPVC, or chlorinated polyvinyl chloride, are also common as they are suitable for hot and cold water, and they are resistant to high temperatures and corrosion.

Though copper is the most preferable thanks to its reliability and long lifespan, they are expensive compared to the alternatives. They also require more labor-intensive installation methods.

Plumbing Pipes 101: The drain pipes

Drain pipes are meant to remove wastewater from sinks, toilets, showers, and other fixtures by channeling it to the main sewer line or septic system. These pipes must be resistant to corrosion and capable of handling a variety of waste materials.

PVC and cast iron are common materials used in drain pipes. While both PVC and cast iron offer long-lasting performance, cast iron is heavy and more difficult to install compared to PVC. Cast iron is also more expensive than PVC.

Plumbing Pipes 101: The waste pipes

Waste pipes carry wastewater from various drains to the main drain line. These pipes are typically larger in diameter than supply pipes and drain pipes, and they must be strong enough to handle all types of waste.

PVC pipes are the common material for waste pipes due to its ease of installation and durability. Some systems use ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), which is similar to PVC but stronger and more resistant to physical impact.

Plumbing Pipes 101: The sewer pipes

Sewer pipes transport wastewater from the building to the municipal sewer system or a septic tank. These pipes must be durable and capable of handling large volumes of waste. As such, typical materials include PVC, cast iron, or clay.

Plumbing Pipes 101: The vent pipes

Vent pipes are essential for maintaining proper air pressure in the plumbing system, allowing wastewater to flow smoothly and preventing sewer gases from entering the building. Cast iron is used in some older buildings and certain commercial applications, but PVC is more commonly used nowadays.

Choosing the right pipe for your plumbing system

Whether you are planning a new-build or simply need a pipe replacement in an existing home, the professionals at Acknowledge Plumbing are ready, willing and able to help.

Our uniformed plumbers have the expertise, experience, and equipment to handle most water leak repair and replacements the first time around. Call Acknowledge Plumbing to schedule an appointment or request urgent assistance today.