The plumbing pipes in your home are more advanced today than they were decades ago, but this can make choosing the right option feel more complex. While galvanized iron or steel pipes were once standard in early 20th-century homes, today’s systems more commonly use materials like copper, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and cross-linked polyethylene (PEX).
The type of pipe you choose plays a major role in your plumbing system’s performance, efficiency, and long-term maintenance. In this guide, we’ll walk through the most common types of plumbing pipes found in homes and offer tips on choosing the best one for your home needs.
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The Five Types of Plumbing Pipes
Choosing the right type of pipe is essential for durability, performance, and long-term reliability in your home’s plumbing system. Each material comes with its own pros and cons, and not all are suited for every application. Plumbing needs vary throughout the home, including water supply lines, drainage systems, sewer lines, venting, high-temperature areas, and tight or hard-to-reach spaces.
In this section, we’ll break down five of the most common types of plumbing pipes—polyvinyl chloride (PVC), cross-linked polyethylene (PEX), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), copper, and cast iron and galvanized steel—so you can better understand which material is best for your project.
We’ll explore five common types of plumbing pipes: PVC (polyvinyl chloride), PEX (cross-linked polyethylene), ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), copper, and cast iron and galvanized piping.
PVC Pipes
PVC plumbing pipe is known for its versatility, lightweight build, and blockage resistance. It’s easy to identify by its white or light-gray color and smooth surface. It’s typically part of a sink, toilet, or shower drain line, sometimes used as a home’s main water supply pipe. The lightweight properties of PVC decrease the labor necessary for installation and the cost of transporting the material. PVC doesn’t easily bend, but the pipe does have some flexible properties that allow it to withstand the constant influx of high water pressure. The smooth inner lining of PVC speeds up the draining process, protecting it against sediment buildup and blockages.
PVC pipes are approved for potable water use under National Sanitation Foundation/American National Standards Institute (NSF/ANSI) Standard 61. Potable water refers to water that is safe for drinking and cooking. However, concerns remain about its potential to leach chemicals into drinking water, which could introduce harmful substances into the supply. High exposure levels of PVC have been linked to respiratory and reproductive health risks. PVC piping also has limited sizing options, making it ineffective in tight spaces. Like many plastics, it cannot withstand hot water and will warp over time.
Pros
- More affordable than other pipe options
- Resistant to high water pressure
- Less prone to blockages
Cons
- Could leach toxins into water
- Prone to warping over time
PEX Pipes
PEX is another affordable plastic plumbing solution that can withstand both hot and cold water and is commonly used for water supply lines. PEX pipes are relatively easy to cut, connect, and work with. PEX uses a “crimp” installation method that involves crimping a ring around a ribbed fitting using a specialized tool to connect the pipes without soldering. PEX can even be retrofitted to copper or PVC pipes using the crimp method and specialized fittings. PEX piping is conducive to tight spaces and sharp corners and can stretch for long distances without requiring additional fittings.
Since PEX is sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) rays, it cannot be used outdoors. Unlike copper or PVC pipes, PEX can expand when frozen, preventing bursting, but it may weaken and crack under prolonged stress, leading to leaks once thawed. Additionally, studies suggest that chemicals in PEX may leach into drinking water, potentially posing health risks. As a result, PEX is restricted by plumbing codes in some states, including California.
Pros
- Can fit in tight spaces and corners
- Doesn’t require soldering
- Works for hot and cold lines
Cons
- Can weaken and crack under prolonged stress after freezing
- Limited to indoor use
ABS Pipes
ABS piping is a durable plastic pipe known for its black color and long lifespan. It is used exclusively for drain, waste, and vent applications, not for pressurized water lines. While ABS is more rigid than PVC and lacks flexibility, it performs better in cold temperatures, making it a solid choice for outdoor or basement installations. Unlike PVC, which requires a primer before applying cement, ABS only needs cement for bonding, making installation quicker and simpler.
However, ABS has a few drawbacks. It doesn’t dampen sound as well as PVC, making running water more noticeable. Additionally, ABS is more prone to cracking under extreme temperatures and can become brittle, especially when exposed to UV light. It is also sensitive to certain chemicals, limiting its applications.
Pros
- Has a long lifespan
- Easier to install than PVC
- Works well in cold temperatures
Cons
- Becomes brittle under UV and extreme temperatures
- Doesn’t dampen sound like PVC
Copper Pipes
Copper pipes can last 50 years or more, making them a long-standing standard in the plumbing industry. Known for durability, these pipes handle high water pressure and resist corrosion, as they use soldering for connections. Copper piping is available in two main types: rigid and flexible. Rigid copper is commonly used for water supply lines, while flexible copper is better suited for tight spaces where bending is necessary. Copper performs well in both hot and cold temperatures and has the added benefit of being recyclable, meaning your plumbing system could be made from reused materials or recycled in the future.
However, copper is typically more expensive than alternatives like PVC or PEX. It’s also less adaptable in tight spaces, where flexible plastic piping is often easier to install.
Pros
- Can get recycled
- Lasts 50-plus years
- Resists corrosion and handles high water pressure
Cons
- Costs more than other pipe types
- Offers limited flexibility
Cast Iron and Galvanized Piping
If you own an older home built in the early 20th century, you may have cast iron or galvanized piping. While no longer common in new construction, these materials are known for their strength and longevity. Cast iron, in particular, can handle high-pressure water flow and extreme temperatures, including boiling water, making it a durable option. It’s still occasionally used in parts of water distribution systems today.
However, these older pipes are more prone to rust and corrosion than modern alternatives. Cast iron is also much heavier than today’s piping materials, which makes removal and replacement more labor-intensive and expensive. If your home still has these pipes, it’s worth weighing the cost of repairs versus a full system upgrade.
Pros
- Handles high-pressure water flow
- Known for strength and longevity
- Withstands boiling water
Cons
- Prone to rust and corrosion
- Very heavy and expensive to replace
Factors To Consider When Choosing Plumbing Pipes
Keep the following factors in mind when choosing the best pipes for your plumbing system:
- Application: Determine whether your home will use the pipe for water supply, drainage, or specific systems like radiant floor heating. Each type of pipe material is best suited for specific uses.
- Cost: Consider both the upfront plumbing costs and the long-term value. PVC and PEX pipes typically offer more budget-friendly options that are easier to install, while copper and cast iron have higher material and labor costs but often provide longer-lasting performance.
- Durability: Different materials have varying lifespans and levels of resistance to wear and tear. For example, copper and cast iron tend to last longer, while materials like PEX are more flexible but may have a shorter lifespan in high-heat environments.
- Environmental impact: Some piping materials, like copper, are recyclable, making them more environmentally friendly. Other materials, such as PVC, are less sustainable but still commonly used due in homes to their cost and versatility.
- Local building codes: Not all pipe types are approved for use in every location. Always consult your local building codes to ensure compliance and avoid costly rework. Some jurisdictions may prohibit certain materials due to health, environmental, or performance concerns. We recommend working with a professional plumber for any home plumbing upgrades.
FAQs About Plumbing Pipes
What are the different types of pipes used in plumbing?
The most common plumbing pipes inside a home are PVC, PEX, ABS, copper, or galvanized steel pipes.
How often does plumbing need to be replaced?
The lifespan of plumbing pipes depends on the material. Brass, cast iron, and galvanized steel can last up to 100 years, copper over 50 years, and PEX and PVC around 50 years. In newer homes, replacement isn’t typically needed, but in older homes, it’s recommended to have the plumbing checked every two years.
What causes plumbing pipes to vibrate?
Pipes vibrate due to what’s called the “hammer” effect. This happens when water is abruptly turned off, resulting in the thumping and vibrating sound heard throughout the house. To reduce noise, it’s important to secure loose pipes.
