Plumbing Express, Inc. is the system of pipes that conveys water throughout a building. It delivers clean water and removes waste, including sewage. Plumbers install, repair and maintain these systems. They also train apprentices.
There are many types of plumbing systems. Some are complex and require specialized training to install or repair them. Others are more straightforward.
When it comes to plumbing, CPVC is a popular option for both commercial and residential settings. It has a range of uses from hot water lines to corrosive chemical transport and more. It can even handle higher temperatures and pressures than other plastic piping systems. It also has a wide range of chemical resistance properties, making it a great choice for many different applications.
The “CP” in CPVC stands for chlorinated polyvinyl chloride, meaning that during manufacturing the plastic is further chlorinated. This process makes the pipe immune to chlorine degradation and improves its expected lifespan. This is a key advantage over copper and PEX, which are both vulnerable to chlorine degradation that shortens their lifespans. The chlorine molecules also make CPVC impermeable, preventing leaks that could introduce harmful chemicals into the drinking water supply.
Another important difference between CPVC and PVC is that CPVC has an additive that makes it resistant to the chemical reactions that cause other types of plastic piping to degrade or become brittle over time. The additive also keeps CPVC piping from breaking down under high-pressure conditions. In fact, CPVC is able to handle the same temperature thresholds as metal piping without becoming damaged, which makes it a better choice for many high-pressure commercial and industrial applications.
CPVC is also extremely durable, withstanding abrasions, impact damage and heat exposure. It has excellent resistance to corrosion, as well, making it a good choice for harsh environments that can wreak havoc on other pipes and equipment. Its light weight makes it easy to install, and its excellent chemical resistance means that CPVC can carry a wide variety of liquids and gases safely and effectively.
As with any new building material, plumbers need to be on the lookout for misconceptions about CPVC. For example, some people mistakenly assume that CPVC discoloration means it’s failing or needing to be replaced. In reality, CPVC becomes stronger and more rigid as it ages, so any discoloration is a sign of success rather than a problem.
Learning about construction fundamentals, like plumbing basics, is an essential part of becoming a competent and successful plumber. That’s why MT Copeland offers online courses that teach the skills needed to succeed in the trade. These video-based classes give students a foundation in construction fundamentals from practicing craftspeople, and include supplementary downloads like blueprints and quizzes to reinforce the lessons taught.
PEX
Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) is a flexible plumbing solution that is replacing traditional copper and galvanized steel as the standard for new construction and home remodeling projects. PEX is available in rolls of up to 1,000 feet, making it the most popular choice for plumbing solutions that require long-distance water distribution and for re-piping jobs.
The flexible nature of PEX tubing allows it to be snaked through walls and around corners without the need for elbow joints or other fittings that can reduce pipe flow efficiency and increase installation costs. It also resists corrosion, scale and chlorine, extending its lifespan over metal materials. PEX also conserves energy, allowing the water to retain its heat longer and keeping water pressure consistent throughout the house.
As a result, plumbing solutions using PEX can be up and running with less downtime than other types of pipes. Its flexibility also enables plumbers to work faster and more efficiently, which reduces installation costs. For example, plumbers can cut PEX with scissors or a utility knife rather than soldering tools and glue, requiring less time to finish the job. Additionally, PEX connectors use push-fit connections, which are simpler to install and remove compared to piping with threaded ends.
Another advantage of PEX is that it can be used outdoors, unlike copper and CPVC. However, it must be covered or protected to prevent damage from UV rays and harsh or acidic elements that can corrode metals. Unlike copper, which is highly toxic, PEX does not contain heavy metals and can be safely used to distribute drinking water in households.
In addition, homeowners and DIYers can use PEX for radiant heating systems or re-pipe their entire homes, including the basement. However, it is important to note that PEX should be installed by a licensed plumber to ensure proper installation and avoid problems like energy loss or water damage.
Regardless of the type of pipes used in your home, it is essential to have your home inspected by a professional plumber once a year. The inspection will determine if any repairs are needed, and it will help prevent water damage from leaky or damaged pipes.
Polybutylene
Polybutylene is a flexible, grey-colored pipe that can curve and is typically used for supply lines in residential plumbing. This type of piping is not used for waste, drain, or vent applications. Homeowners who suspect that their homes have polybutylene piping should call a licensed plumber to inspect their system, which will involve shutting off water and looking inside the pipes for wear and tear or signs of deterioration. It is recommended that homeowners replace their polybutylene piping as soon as possible, as it is prone to failure due to chemical reactions with chlorine and other chemicals in public water supplies.
During its rise to popularity, polybutylene captivated builders and homeowners with its impressive array of advertised benefits. Manufacturers marketed the material for its cost-effectiveness, resistance to chloride in water supply systems, and ease of installation. As a result, it became a popular choice for new construction and renovation projects across North America.
However, the polybutylene saga ultimately taught an important lesson to the construction industry. This experience prompted changes in building codes and best practices, emphasizing the importance of rigorous testing for new plumbing materials. It also shaped future innovation in the field, encouraging manufacturers to develop advanced plastics that offered superior resistance to chemical degradation.
Homeowners who have polybutylene pipes should plan to replace their entire plumbing systems as soon as possible. It is recommended that they seek professional guidance from a certified plumbing inspector to ensure the replacement process runs smoothly and efficiently. It is important to consider all the costs associated with a full replacement, including labor fees charged by licensed plumbers. Additionally, homeowners should be prepared for hidden expenses like drywall repairs, painting, and meeting current plumbing code standards, which might require new shut-off valves or fixtures.
The cost of replacing polybutylene pipes can vary depending on the size of the home and the accessibility of the existing plumbing system. The best way to determine the exact cost of a replacement is to have a licensed plumber inspect the existing piping. This will involve shutting off the water and looking inside the pipes for signs of damage or deterioration. It is also recommended that homeowners take preventative measures, such as regular inspections, maintaining appropriate water pressure levels, and replacing problematic sections before they fail.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel is the most common material used to make pipes in residential plumbing systems. It is an inexpensive, durable pipe that is resistant to corrosion. Galvanized steel is available in a variety of diameters and lengths, including 3/8″-4″ and 21′. It is commonly used for the transport of potable water, but it also works well for other applications. The zinc in galvanized steel acts as a protective layer against rust and other harmful materials. This is why it is so popular in industrial, agricultural, and power transmission applications.
Before galvanized pipes were widely used, lead was the standard material for water lines. The use of lead pipes posed serious health risks, and prompted the development of a safer alternative: galvanized steel. Galvanized pipes lasted longer than lead pipes, but they are not without their drawbacks. Over time, the zinc coating on galvanized pipes can wear away. Once this happens, the pipes can corrode, leading to rusty water and mineral deposits in the pipes. These deposits can restrict water flow and cause the pipe to clog.
If you suspect your home has galvanized pipes, it is important to replace them before they deteriorate. Otherwise, the corroded pipes may leak behind walls and floors, waste hundreds or thousands of gallons of water each year, and contribute to high utility bills.
To identify if your pipes are galvanized, you can perform a simple test at home. Use a flathead screwdriver to scratch the surface of your water pipe. If the scratched area looks like a copper penny, your pipes are galvanized. A strong magnet will also stick to the pipe if it is galvanized.
To ensure a long lifespan for your galvanized pipes, it is crucial to keep them away from acidic foods and extreme heat. Exposure to acidic foods can damage the galvanized coating and expose the metal underneath. Extreme heat can cause the zinc to melt, creating toxic fumes. If your pipes are galvanized, you should avoid welding them or using any other method that uses heat to join the pieces together.