If you’re preparing for plumbing work, you’ll find a wide range of pipe materials available. Each type has its benefits and is suitable for a different range of applications. Below are the top five your plumber would recommend for your residential plumbing project. 

The Best Pipe Materials for Your Plumbing

1. Copper

Copper favorable because of its long lifespan. Because it lasts for decades, it doesn’t need to be replaced for years. While it is an expensive option, it is resistant to extreme weather, fire, and corrosion, and it’s fully recyclable for a low environmental impact.

2. Stainless Steel

Stainless steel pipes are highly resistant to corrosion, which is especially important in coastal areas as sea salt can make corrosion worse. While solid steel pipes are inflexible, there are also flexible jointed varieties that can suit your project best. 

3. Brass

Brass is a soft metal, which is beneficial for plumbing applications, as the softness allows for tighter connections between pipes. While this plumbing material is more common in older homes, lead-free brass remains a functional choice for water supply and drain lines and is highly resistant to heat and corrosion.

4. Iron

Galvanized iron pipes use a coating of zinc to prevent corrosion. While this coating is long-lasting, it is not invulnerable, so these pipes are most often used for drains rather than supply lines to avoid putting rust in drinking water.

5. Plastic

PEX, PVC, CPVC, and PP pipes are among the lightest and least expensive types of pipe available. They’re also easy to work with compared to metal pipes, so if you’re planning a DIY plumbing work, they’re the material of choice. While they can be less durable than metal options, the wide range of plastic options means there’s a suitable choice for every application including supply lines, connections to your water heater, drains, and outdoor work.

To make sure you’re getting the best pipe for the job, the professionals at Plumbing & Heating Co. in Juneau, AK, can help. With over 25 years of experience in plumbing repair, they make it their priority to form lasting relationships with clients by providing high-quality, customized service including 24/7 emergency repairs. To schedule a plumbing replacement, call (907) 789-3332 or visit their website to see a list of their residential services.